المجلس العالمي للتسامح والسلام

My article today looks like my freedom… Save what is left!

By: Christelle C. Mahfouz

Christelle C. Mahfouz

“I may not agree with what you say, but I will defend to death your RIGHT to say it,” Voltaire said and then forgot about it…

He forgot that freedom of some is forbidden because it exceeds the allowed limits… He forgot that freedom for some is a crime that extends and stretches like an uncontrollable disease… He forgot that freedom in itself, for some, represents the security, social and cultural chaos … He forgot that we live at a time where any kind of freedom is inestimable… So, what if we are talking today about freedom of the press? 

The freedom of the press, which UNESCO proclaimed May 3 as World Press Freedom Day also marking the anniversary of the Declaration of Windhoek, at a meeting of African journalists in Namibia in 1991, has been widely criticized but remained as it is, the government’s guarantee of freedom of expression and is often guaranteed by the country’s constitution, the protective shield of all political and civil rights, and the first and last refuge for those who lowered or were forced to lower their voices!

My article is similar to my freedom. For Mandela, freedom is “not a situation, as much as a statement and a faith.” Therefore, I will not tell you about the martyrs who have committed themselves for the press of all kinds, and I will not remind you of the worst situations they have experienced … Simply, I would like to praise journalism which is equally important to the highest humanitarian work in its beliefs.

Hence, there is no doubt that the fourth authority in its awareness, has an important role in the dissemination of knowledge and enlightenment, as well as the formation of public opinion on most issues, as it has proved over time that it has an influence on people, double the power owned by governments and regulations… “Isn’t the price of freedom constant vigilance?”

It has a strong influence in its free voice and by telling the truth and delivering the message no matter how difficult it is… A Strong influence, despite the statement issued by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) non-profit organization that said that “There is a large drop in freedom of the press in various countries of the world and an atmosphere of hatred and hostility against journalists, which is a threat to democracies.” A strong influence, especially since the UN report states that ” free and pluralistic media is essential for healthy and vibrant societies “. Also, a strong influence far away from the European Union’s warning, which stated that “freedom of the press and expression is threatened throughout the world.”

My article today is like my freedom, as it is not power for the journalist to ask questions, but his power lies in demanding answers… So please, save what is left of our “dignity” before it’s too late!!

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