Today is World Press Freedom Day and in a joint statement, the American, British Canadian and European Union representatives in Guyana reminded of the pivotal role that is played by the media and the need to protect freedom of the press in Guyana.

The Western Diplomats in their statement said media workers should not be restricted nor have to work under unnecessary duress or risk to their safety in order to have access to information, adding that media workers should not face abuse, threats, intimidation or personal attacks in the execution of their duties, nor should they be expected to align with any specific idea, person, entity or political party, whether directly or anonymously.

Just recently, the Guyana Press Association was forced to call out both the Government and the Opposition over attacks on the media.

The Diplomats have reminded that the media’s role is to provide objective and impartial reporting, which is essential to maintaining a healthy democracy and ensuring that all voices are heard

The ABCE envoys said they discourage the practice of selectiveness in granting access to information or to public officials under the guise of media bias.

According to the Western Diplomats, it is imperative that all stakeholders, including decisions makers such as the government and the opposition, maintain a mutually respectful relationship with the media in its capacity as the fourth estate and as a vital part of democracy in action.

They said that means granting the media access to public officials and to information should be the norm, and requests for public information should be honored.

This year marks the 30^th anniversary of the UN General Assembly’s decision, proclaiming the international day for press freedom.

“As we reflect on the past thirty years of advocacy for media freedom, we recognise that despite how far we have come, work remains. Together we must continue to develop the role that the media plays in promoting democracy, transparency and accountability and work collectively to understand the expectations of all stakeholders”, the joint ABCEU statement said.

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