Liberia journalists commemorating the World Press Freedom Day in Kakata, Margibi County
UNDP Liberia
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has called for stronger protections for press freedom in Liberia, stressing that an independent, professional, and responsible media remains essential to democracy, peacebuilding, accountability, and national development.
Delivering the keynote address at the World Press Freedom Day commemoration hosted by the Press Union of Liberia (PUL), UNDP Resident Representative Mr. Aliou Mamadou Dia underscored that press freedom is not only a fundamental human right but also a cornerstone of democratic governance.
“Without press freedom, democracy becomes hollow. With it, governance becomes more transparent, responsive, and legitimate,” Dia said.
Mr. Dia highlighted the critical role journalists play in promoting accountability by investigating corruption, reporting on justice and human rights issues, and ensuring that public institutions remain visible and answerable to citizens.
Reflecting on Liberia’s democratic journey, he acknowledged the media’s contribution to expanding civic space and strengthening citizen participation, while cautioning that shrinking civic space and attacks on journalists could erode public trust and social stability.
He expressed concern over the growing threats facing the media landscape, including intimidation, harassment, assaults, legal pressures, and the increasing spread of misinformation, disinformation, and misuse of artificial intelligence.
“A single unverified claim can spread across communities within minutes often faster than facts,” Dia warned. “This makes professional journalism rooted in ethics, verification, and accuracy more important than ever.”
Calling for responsible journalism, Mr. Dia urged media professionals to prioritize credibility over speed and to uphold the highest standards of ethical reporting.
“Speed may bring attention, but accuracy builds credibility,” he emphasized.
The UNDP Resident Representative also called on the Government of Liberia to ensure that freedom of speech and press freedom are protected in both principle and practice, stressing that journalists must be able to carry out their work without fear of intimidation, interference, or violence.
He further encouraged journalists to help reshape Liberia’s narrative by telling balanced stories that highlight resilience, innovation, opportunity, and progress, alongside accountability reporting.
“Liberia is more than its past challenges. It is also a country of resilience, innovation, and opportunity,” Dia said.
As part of the commemoration, participants reflected on documented cases of threats, harassment, and assaults against journalists in Liberia over the past year.
Tributes were also paid to media colleagues who have passed away or are battling illnesses, recognizing their lasting contributions to the profession.
World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3, serves as a reminder that freedom of the press is fundamental to democracy, human rights, and peace, as enshrined in Liberia’s Constitution.
The Press Union of Liberia through its President Julius Kanubah reaffirmed its commitment to defending journalists, promoting ethical standards, and standing firmly against all forms of attacks on press freedom, while calling attention to the welfare and working conditions of media professionals.
“There can be no true press freedom when journalists work under poor conditions and struggle to survive,” the Union noted.
The commemoration concluded with a renewed call on all stakeholders, including the government, security institutions, media owners, civil society, and citizens, to respect, protect, and promote freedom of expression.
Without press freedom, there can be no democracy, no development, and no lasting peace.
- UNDP
