On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, the Institute of Maltese Journalists called on the government to tangibly create an environment where journalists and media actors can continue carrying out their duty to serve democracy.
This day is marked around the world not only to raise awareness of the importance of freedom of the press but also to remind governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
The United Nations has chosen that this year’s theme for the day is: “Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights”, signifying the enabling element of freedom of expression to enjoy and protect all other human rights.
The IGM noted recent statements by Prime Minister Robert Abela that the media is the fourth pillar of democracy, as acknowledged in the Labour Party’s electoral manifesto. As such, it expects the government to put its money where its mouth is and really, with facts, recognise it as such.
In the light of such statements, it is indeed baffling how the government continues to push back on a recommendation by its own committee of experts to entrench the media in the enforceable parts of the country’s constitution.
The IGM also calls on the government to address other issues that are seriously undermining the media in Malta. Primary among them is the Freedom of Information Act which is weak, abused by the public authorities and in dire need of a total overhaul. Along with this is a shift in mentality whereby information is given rather than kept under wraps.
Other issues include the considerable financial difficulties being faced by media outlets. The IGM is looking at models used abroad and will be making its recommendations to government in this regard.
The IGM said it is evolving into the first-ever journalists’ trade union in Malta, giving it and its members a strong legal standing. It is in these trying times that journalists must stand united. It is together, along with civil society and democracy campaigners, that changes, however small they are, can be achieved. It is many of these small steps which will continue to transform the Maltese media landscape which in turn will result in stronger journalism and a stronger democracy.