Human Rights Defender of Armenia Ms. Anahit Manasyan issued a congratulatory message on World Press Freedom Day.
“Dear journalists, I congratulate you on your professional holiday, the World Press Freedom Day.
The freedom of media activity is the cornerstone of a stable democracy, and the guarantee of dissent and healthy debate.
The work of diligent and professional journalists aimed at raising public issues, as well as guaranteeing the accountability of state bodies and officials, is invaluable and instrumental. At the same time, professional media activity can be guaranteed only through compliance with rules of ethics, and the exclusion of hate speech due to your professional activity.
Despite the registered progress, certain issues in the field of guaranteeing freedom of the press, remain relevant. The Committee to Protect Freedom of Expression registered 14 cases of physical violence against journalists in 2022. Cases of targeting of journalists are also problematic. In this regard, it is important to take steps in the direction of guaranteeing the freedom of the press, which will ensure the existence of a favorable environment for normal media activities and the safety of journalists.
As the Human Rights Defender of Armenia, I am ready to do the utmost within the framework of my mandate to protect your free and unobstructed activities. I also highly value the cooperation between the Human Rights Defender’s Office, and media outlets, aimed at guaranteeing the coverage of sensitive issues related to the most vulnerable groups of society.
The work of the media and journalists should be free and protected.
I wish you productive and creative activities”.
