This year’s theme, "Journalism Under Digital Siege," examines the challenges to media viability in different regions and media sectors, identifying viable solutions without compromising the integrity and editorial independence and exploring the importance of professional practices.
UNESCO which organises this world event, stated every year, 3 May is a date which celebrates the fundamental principles of press freedom, to evaluate press freedom around the world including Tonga.
It is to defend the media from attacks on their independence and to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their profession.
It also acts as a reminder to governments including our own of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom and is also a day of reflection among media professionals about issues of press freedom and professional ethics.
World Press Freedom Day was proclaimed by the UN General Assembly in 1993, following the recommendation of UNESCO’s General Conference in 1991.
Media Association Tonga (MAT) is hosting various radio and TV programs to commemorate the event.