Press freedom and its environmental importance

Hey there, time traveller!
This article was published 06/05/2024 (527 days ago), so information in it may no longer be current.

In 2023, 120 journalists were killed worldwide, according to the European Federation of Journalists, and more than six times that number were imprisoned arbitrarily. It is safe to say that many journalists, specifically war correspondents and journalists in authoritarian regimes, risk their lives to report the truth. This is why, in 1993, the United Nations established the date of this past Friday, May 3, as World Press Freedom Day: to protect journalistic rights and to remind governments around the world not to infringe upon the rights of journalists.

Despite the UN’s reminder, many governments still commit crimes against journalists. Over half the countries listed on Reporters Without Borders’ Press Freedom Index are categorized negatively as problematic, difficult, or very serious, with only eight countries listed in the highest tier of ‘good.’ The index is based on the number of abuses against journalists and an analysis on a questionnaire. There are many challenges journalists face. War correspondents could be targeted by soldiers, even though attacking them is illegal. Journalists could be suppressed or detained, or they could have trouble easily accessing essential information or sources if those sources are blocked by the government. The UN is attempting to prevent these barriers by establishing international laws to prevent war crimes against journalists that help prevent governments from meddling in press freedom.

The UN’s recognition of these obstacles also highlights the importance of journalism. Journalism is essential in helping people get accurate information so they can make educated decisions on current topics. The public’s view on politics is heavily influenced by the press; therefore, it is important that the press has the opportunity to provide important information, which encourages more people to vote. Furthermore, the press can also hold governments and other entities accountable for their actions, thereby pushing for a better and more sustainable society.

This brings us to this year’s theme for World Press Freedom Day: freedom of the press during the current environmental crisis. The UN recognizes the many struggles journalists face in trying to obtain information on a variety of different topics regarding the current environmental condition. Some of these challenges include finding data on illegal mining, pollution, deforestation and animal trafficking. It is crucial that these topics are reported on to enlighten the public on current events regarding the environment. Moreover, it is also extremely important to fight disinformation on these topics that hinders progress and is orchestrated by corporations or countries hoping to continue their immoral practices by skewing public opinion. In order to make certain that the press can report on the environment, it is essential that journalists have the liberty to access scientific sources.

On the World Press Freedom Index, Canada placed 15th in 2023, which is high and considered satisfactory by Reporters Without Borders, the second highest tier. However, on the Reporters Without Borders website, the organization comments that despite valuing the freedom of the press, there is a lack of coverage concerning Indigenous peoples and their rights. This comment is extended further in the context of this year’s theme for World Press Freedom Day, the environment and the climate crisis. Indigenous people may face environmental issues such as having access to clean water, or being displaced as a result of wildfires. It is essential that Canadian sources report on these topics so that the broader public is aware and can hold the government accountable if they are not doing enough.

But what can you do in the face of press freedom in the context of climate change? One thing is for certain: you can verify your news sources to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information from a reliable source, so you have all the facts to make a decision. Double check news that you read online as it could be false or missing key context. You can also find media bias charts to observe the political biases of news organizations. As for climate change, make sure the products you buy are naturally sourced or from a corporation that you know isn’t contributing massively to the problem.

» Colin Shaw is a Grade 10 student at École secondaire Neelin High School.