As we commemorate World Press Freedom Day, we are reminded that press freedom is not simply an ideal to defend—it is a foundation upon which peaceful, democratic, and inclusive societies are built. 

This year’s theme, “Shaping a World at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Security, and Development,” underscores a fundamental truth; without a free and responsible press, there can be no lasting peace, no meaningful accountability, and no sustainable development. 

At its core, press freedom allows citizens to understand how they are governed and to hold institutions accountable. Without it, democracy becomes hollow. With it, governance becomes more transparent, responsive, and legitimate. 

Journalists make governance visible through investigative reporting, coverage of justice systems, and by amplifying issues that might otherwise remain hidden. In doing so, they reinforce the rule of law and strengthen public trust. 

In Liberia, the media has played a central role in expanding civic space and supporting the country’s democratic consolidation. Radio, print, and digital platforms have enabled citizens to engage more actively in public life and connect more meaningfully with institutions. 

Yet this progress remains fragile. When journalists face intimidation, restricted access to information, or economic pressure, civic space begins to narrow, weakening participation and trust. 

Today, the information landscape is evolving at unprecedented speed. While technology has expanded access to information, it has also accelerated the spread of misinformation and disinformation. A single unverified claim can circulate widely within minutes often outpacing factual reporting. 

The growing use of artificial intelligence introduces new risks, enabling the creation of highly convincing but false content that further complicates the search for truth. 

In this context, the value of professional journalism has never been greater. Technology does not reduce the need for ethics, it increases it. Citizens depend on credible journalists to provide verification, context, and clarity. 

Trust, therefore, becomes the media’s most valuable asset earned through accuracy, consistency, and integrity. 

Ethical journalism requires the discipline of verifying information, providing context, and exercising restraint in the face of pressure to publish quickly. As we often emphasize, speed may bring attention, but accuracy builds credibility. 

Strengthening the Foundations: A Shared Responsibility

Journalists cannot carry this responsibility alone. A strong and independent media sector depends on an enabling environment. Governments must protect freedom of expression not only in principle, but in practice, ensuring that journalists can operate without fear of intimidation or interference. 

Protecting journalists is not only a human rights obligation; it is essential for national stability and security. 

At the same time, journalism has a broader role in shaping Liberia’s future. While the country’s past has often been defined by crisis, Liberia is also a story of resilience, innovation, and progress. 

By telling balanced stories that highlight both challenges and opportunities, journalists contribute to national confidence and help reshape perceptions—both domestically and internationally. 

UNDP Liberia’s Commitment—and a Call to Action

UNDP recognizes that strengthening the media is central to strengthening democracy itself. Our partnership with the Press Union of Liberia reflects a shared commitment to building a free, capable, and trusted media sector. 

In Liberia, UNDP has supported media development through a range of practical initiatives that focus on both skills and systems. These include:

• Capacity-building for investigative journalism - helping journalists report with greater depth on governance, public finance, and service delivery issues; 

• Training in digital verification and fact-checking - equipping media practitioners to detect and counter misinformation and disinformation in real time; 

• Strengthening ethical standards and professional accountability - in collaboration with media associations and institutions; 

• Supporting media and information literacy initiatives - enabling citizens to better evaluate and engage with information responsibly. 

These efforts reflect a clear lesson. Investing in journalism is investing in peace, governance, and development.

However, more must be done.

UNDP Liberia therefore calls on:

• Government institutions to ensure that press freedom is protected in law and fully upheld in practice;

• Media organizations to reinforce ethical journalism, prioritize verification, and uphold independence;

• Development partners to expand support for media sustainability, innovation, and capacity-building initiatives;

• Citizens to actively demand credible information and engage responsibly in public discourse.

Protecting press freedom is not the responsibility of one group—it is a collective obligation.

Toward a More Peaceful and Informed Society

Ultimately, shaping a world at peace begins with how we inform, how we communicate, and how we understand one another. Press freedom creates the space for truth to emerge; responsibility ensures that truth strengthens societies rather than divides them. 

Liberia’s future will depend not only on its institutions, but on the strength, credibility, and integrity of its media. 

The task before us is clear, it is to protect press freedom, to strengthen its practice, and to ensure that it continues to serve as a driver of human rights, security, and sustainable development.