EMMA supports World Press Freedom Day

In 1993, World Press Freedom Day was established by the UN General Assembly. Each year, on May 3, the fundamental principles of press freedom are celebrated worldwide. The day provides the opportunity to examine the state of press freedom around the world, to defend the media from attacks, and to pay tribute to journalists who lost their lives while practicing their profession.

World Press Freedom Day is also a day to acknowledge the right to express the opinion of others: difference day. This year the European Magazine Media Association is pleased to be a supporter of "Difference Day - the European Gala for Freedom of Expression", which will take place in Brussels on May 3. The event is organised by the Brussels Platform for Journalism - a joint initiative of the Vrije Universiteit Brussel,  Université Libre de Bruxelles and Erasmushogeschool Brussel - together with the BOZAR Centre for Fine Arts, the Evens Foundation and iMinds.

While freedom of the press is essential for democratic societies, it is also a crucial aspect of the freedom of expression. Freedom of expression fundamentally     implies the respect for the opinion of others and it is the recognition and celebration of diversity.

This May 3, a variety of speakers will address how press freedom can be situated within a wider democratic climate of freedom of speech and of the respect for the diversity of opinions. In addition, there will be a screening of the Oscar-winning Citizenfour documentary on Edward Snowden and a gala ceremony that will culminate in the announcement of the winners of four press awards. The complete programme for the day can be viewed here.

Join us in celebrating the freedom of the press and diversity of opinions in Europe by registering for this event.