At World Press Freedom Day Celebration In Kakata, Liberia
By Alfred Kollie
Kakata, Margibi County — The Resident Representative of the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), Aliou Mamadou Dia, has called for stronger protection of journalists and renewed commitment to press freedom in Liberia, describing a free media as essential to democracy, peace, and sustainable development.
Delivering a keynote address at the World Press Freedom Day celebration in Kakata City on Monday, May 4, 2026, Margibi County, Mr. Dia emphasized that a free, independent, and pluralistic press remains the backbone of democratic governance and human rights.
Speaking under the global theme, “Shaping a World at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Security, and Development,” he noted that the free flow of information and the courage of journalists are critical to building transparent, inclusive, and resilient societies.
May 3 acts as a reminder to governments of the need to respect their commitment to press freedom. It is also a day of reflection among media professionals about issues of press freedom and professional ethics. World Press Freedom Day – EN | United Nations
“Press freedom is the lifeblood of every democratic society,” he said.
“Where the media is free, citizens are informed, leaders are held accountable, and human rights are protected.”
Mr. Dia commended Liberia’s media for its resilience, highlighting the role journalists continue to play in advancing transparency and amplifying the voices of communities across the country despite numerous challenges.
However, he warned of increasing threats facing journalists, including safety risks, financial constraints, online harassment, and the spread of misinformation and disinformation.
He stressed that the safety of journalists must be non-negotiable, calling on all stakeholders to ensure that no reporter is intimidated, attacked, or silenced for performing their duties.
While advocating for press freedom, the UNDP official also underscored the responsibility that comes with it.
He urged journalists to uphold professionalism, accuracy, and ethical standards, especially in today’s digital age where misinformation and hate speech can undermine peace and social cohesion.
“Responsible journalism means rejecting sensationalism, promoting fact-based reporting, and ensuring that media content does not inflame tensions or deepen divisions,” he added.
Mr. Dia further highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government, media, civil society, and development partners in strengthening Liberia’s democratic gains.
He praised ongoing efforts to expand civic space and improve legal frameworks that support media freedom.
He outlined UNDP’s continued support to Liberia’s media sector through initiatives such as the Liberia Electoral Support Project (LESP+), which has trained journalists in election reporting, fact-checking, and peace messaging. He also noted efforts to promote accountability journalism, enhance access to information, and strengthen partnerships between the media and law enforcement to ensure safer reporting environments.
Additionally, UNDP has been supporting digital literacy and countering misinformation through partnerships with local and international organizations, helping to build a more resilient media landscape.
In his concluding remarks, Mr. Dia called for collective action from all sectors of society to protect press freedom, ensure journalist safety, and promote responsible media practices.
“As we commemorate World Press Freedom Day, let us renew our commitment to defending truth, supporting journalists, and building a society where every voice is heard,” he said.
He reaffirmed UNDP’s commitment to partnering with Liberia in strengthening democracy, advancing human rights, and promoting sustainable development through a free and responsible press.
The World Press Freedom Day celebration brought together government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, civil society actors, and media practitioners to reflect on the role of journalism in shaping a peaceful and democratic Liberia.