Originally published by CNBNews on May 2, 2024
GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (May 2, 2024)(CNBNews)–On Friday, May 3, 2024 countries worldwide celebrated World Press Freedom Day. In 1993, the United Nations declared a special day to highlight the significance of journalism in free societies. This day is celebrated every year on May 3rd. Its purpose is to emphasize the essential role of journalism in promoting transparency and democracy.
However, The Guardian reports a new study finds political attacks on press freedom, including the detention of journalists, suppression of independent media outlets, and widespread dissemination of misinformation, are on the rise. The findings stem from the annual World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders.
The Society of Professional Journalists has assembled a coalition of 43 signatories, including journalism organizations, First Amendment advocacy groups and media unions, all calling on the Texas Department of Public Safety to abandon its misguided pursuit of criminal charges against photojournalist Carlos Sanchez, who was arrested while covering protests at the University of Texas at Austin.
Just a few months into 2024, the U.S. Press Freedom Tracker has documented four arrests or detentions of journalists covering protests in New York, Tennessee, and California.
None of these arrests have received much attention or public outcry. That’s a shame. These arrests violate journalists’ rights, and they undermine the right of the public to learn about newsworthy events happening in their communities.
https://freedom.press/news/police-are-still-arresting-journalists-why