World Press Freedom Day

World Press Freedom Day History

World Press Freedom Day seeks to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the press and remind governments of their duty to uphold the right to freedom of expression enshrined under Article 19 of the 1948 Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It offers an opportunity to evaluate press freedom around the world, defend the media from attacks on their independence and pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in the exercise of their duty. Furthermore, it acts as a call to action, serving as a platform to tackle issues on media freedom and improve protections for journalists.

The United Nations General Assembly established World Press Freedom Day in December 1993, following a recommendation from UNESCO. Over the years, it has been commemorated annually, focusing on different themes central to press freedom. The role of a free press and its implications for democracy are particularly pertinent to the United Kingdom. UK press freedom has evolved significantly, influenced by notable incidents such as the ‘Peterloo Massacre’ in 1819 and major legislation including The Official Secrets Act. The fairness, impartiality, and freedom of the press remain central to democratic dialogue in the UK today.

In the United Kingdom, World Press Freedom Day is usually marked with events such as debates, film screenings and talks, centered around press freedom and its significance to democracy and civil rights. These events often feature journalists, activists and thought leaders, fostering discussions on the challenges faced and ways to enhance media freedom. World Press Freedom Day is annually commemorated on the 3rd of May in the United Kingdom.

Facts about World Press Freedom Day

• The theme for World Press Freedom Day in 2025 was A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the face of the environmental crisis. In 2024 the theme was A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.
  In 2023 the theme was Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of Expression as a Driver for all other human rights.
• According to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, everyone has the right to freedom of opinion and expression; this right includes freedom to hold opinions without interference and to seek, receive and impart information and ideas through any media and regardless of frontiers. – Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights
• In the UK, press freedom is protected by law under Article 10 of the European Convention on Human Rights.

In the News and Trending in the UK for World Press Freedom Day

Top things to do in the UK for World Press Freedom Day

• Get your inner journalist active on social media. The internet has given birth to a citizen journalist movement that harnesses the power of millions who previously had no voice. We all have cameras in our pockets and access to an audience of millions on social media.
• Attend an event. There are dozens of events celebrating WPFD, these conferences bring together journalists and media workers to discuss current issues. UNESCO offers more info.
• Take a trip to Fleet Street, London. Once the home of the British newspaper industry, Fleet Street is still a must-see area with many historic buildings.
• Visit the Museum of London in London today. The museum has a dedicated section exploring the history of the press in the UK.