Special rapporteurs on freedom of expression issue joint statement on press freedom Day

VIENNA, 2 May 2005 - On the occasion of the World Press Freedom Day, marked 3 May, the international community's four special rapporteurs on freedom of expression issued a joint statement, paying tribute to the courage and professionalism of the numerous journalists and other media professionals either killed or wounded on account of their professional activities.

They also addressed such issues as decriminalization of libel, the importance of access to information and the role of all forms of media in society.

The Representative on Freedom of the Media of the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, Mr. Miklos Haraszti, the Special Rapporteur of the United Nations Commission on Human Rights on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Mr. Ambeyi Ligabo, and the Special Rapporteur for freedom of expression of the Organization of American States, Mr. Eduardo Bertoni were for the first time joined by the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression of the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, Mr. Andrew Chigovera.

The text of the joint statement in English and in Russian is attached.