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12:18 GMT
BRUSSELS, May 2 (KUNA) -- The European Union Sunday warned that press freedom continues to be under threat around the globe and pledged to promote and protect freedom of the press.
"At a time when independent and free media reporting is more essential than ever, press freedom continues to be under threat. Journalists continue to experience harsh working conditions with increasing financial and political pressure," said High Representative Josep Borrell in a Declaration on behalf of the 27-member bloc to mark World Press Freedom Day which falls on 3 May.
He noted that 76 journalists were killed since 2020, while many more were arrested, harassed or threatened worldwide.
"Freedom of information and free speech must be promoted and protected everywhere. This is in everyoneآ’s interest. The EU will continue speaking up against any restriction on freedom of expression and censorship, both online and offline, in violation of international human rights law," stressed the Declaration.
"Freedom of the press is a cornerstone of democratic societies, which can thrive only if citizens have access to reliable information and can make informed choices. Press freedom means security for all," it added. (end)
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