Congratulatory
message of the Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Armenia Ms. Anahit
Manasyan on the occasion of the World Press Freedom Day.
“Dear
representatives of the media community,
I
warmly congratulate you on your professional holiday - World Press Freedom Day.
This
day is another opportunity to highlight the importance of your complex and
responsible mission and reaffirm the exceptional significance of your work in
strengthening democracy and the rule of law.
In
the framework of the 2024 Annual Report of the Human Rights Defender, I have
specifically emphasized the importance of the unhindered activities of
representatives of the media community.
In
this regard, I find it concerning that there are cases of targeting of
journalists and obstructing their professional activities. I emphasize that the
state must take clear and targeted steps to create a favorable environment for
the proper operation of the media and fully ensure the safety of journalists.
In
particular, it is necessary to develop and implement mechanisms that will
guarantee the free and safe operation of the media, as well as prevent
violations of journalists' rights and ensure the inevitability of liability in
such cases.
At
the same time, professional journalistic activity must also be carried out in
accordance with high ethical standards and the principles of responsible
journalism, excluding hate speech and discrimination in all its manifestations.
As
the Human Rights Defender of Armenia, I reaffirm my commitment to do my utmost
to ensure the protection of your free and unhindered work.
Once
again, I congratulate you on the holiday and wish you effective, creative and
productive activities in favor of strengthening the rule of law and democracy.”
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