On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, Pope Leo XIV strongly criticised ongoing violations of media freedom across the world and paid tribute to journalists who lost their lives while reporting from conflict zones.
“Press Freedom Often Violated,” Says Pope
Speaking after his weekly Sunday prayer at St. Peter’s Square, the pope highlighted the importance of independent journalism while expressing concern over increasing threats to reporters.
“Today we celebrate World Press Freedom Day… unfortunately, this right is often violated, sometimes in blatant ways, sometimes in more hidden forms,” he said.
Tribute to Journalists Killed in Conflict
The pope remembered journalists who were killed while doing their job, especially in war-hit regions.
“We remember the many journalists and reporters who have been victims of war and violence,” he said, urging people to keep them in their prayers.
Journalism a Pillar of Democracy
UNESCO observes World Press Freedom Day every year on May 3 to support press freedom and honour journalists who have died in the line of duty.
In earlier speeches, the pope has described journalism as a key pillar of democracy and said that information is a public good that must be protected.
He has also repeatedly called for the release of journalists who are unfairly detained, saying that “doing their job can never be considered a crime.”
The remarks come at a time when concerns about press freedom and the safety of journalists continue to grow globally.
