EU commits to promote global press freedom

BRUSSELS, May 3 (KUNA) -- The EU Sunday paid tribute to those journalists and media actors who have lost their lives, been imprisoned or otherwise suffered unjust consequences for exercising their right to freedom of expression and stressed that an independent media are essential in any democratic society.
"Press freedom is a pillar of any society, it has to be promoted and can't never be given for granted. We reaffirm our commitment to promote and protect freedom of expression and freedom of the media worldwide, and to continue to promote the safety of journalists and other media workers," said EU High Representative Federica Mogherini in Declaration on behalf of the 28-member bloc to mark World Press Freedom Day.
She noted that modern information and communication technologies (ICTs) are now part of everyday life and provide new opportunities for the fulfilment of human rights and for social and economic development.
The EU foreign policy chief stated that "non-discriminatory access to information and freedom of expression for all individuals, both online and offline must be ensured and protected." The EU is committed to further strengthening international efforts geared at the promotion of freedom of expression and welcomes the UN new special procedures mandate on the right to privacy, she added. (end) nk.mt