U.S. Ambassador Calls for Press Freedom and Justice for Imprisoned Journalists
In a powerful speech delivered on the eve of World Press Freedom Day, U.S. Ambassador Linda Thomas-Greenfield called for the release of unjustly imprisoned journalists and highlighted the vital role of a free and independent press in democracy.
The ambassador highlighted the case of journalist Evan Gershkovich, who has been detained in a Russian prison for 400 days for reporting on Russia’s illegal war in Ukraine. She emphasized that journalists play a crucial role in exposing corruption, countering disinformation, and holding the powerful accountable.
Thomas-Greenfield condemned the intimidation, harassment, and violence faced by journalists around the world, noting that such actions only reveal the weakness and fear of those who seek to silence dissent.
She also outlined the United States’ efforts to support journalists, including initiatives like Reporters Shield and the Journalism Protection Platform, which aim to protect and empower journalists facing threats and attacks.
The ambassador expressed solidarity with journalists who have lost colleagues, experienced retaliation, or been targeted themselves, and reaffirmed the U.S.’s commitment to fighting for press freedom and justice for imprisoned journalists.
In closing, Thomas-Greenfield thanked the journalists in attendance for their dedication to seeking out the truth and shining a light on human rights abuses, stating that their work makes the world a brighter place.
