Opening remarks by Tapan Mishra, UN Resident Coordinator at the Multidisciplinary Discussion held on the occasion of the World Press Freedom Day 2024

Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed journalists, and advocates of press freedom,

Dear colleagues of the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs, Globe International and UNESCO Mongolia National Commission,

Thank you for your kind invitation to this significant event. It is my great pleasure and honor to celebrate World Press Freedom Day alongside my esteemed colleagues in the media and journalism community in Mongolia.

Today, we commemorate not just a mere observance of this Press Freedom Day, but our commitment to a fundamental human right that underpins the very core of democratic societies worldwide.

In this regard, I am very pleased to see the Ministry of Justice and Home Affairs is on board with us. We must ensure press freedom as a pillar for upholding democracy, safeguarding the public's right to information, and fostering accountability within society. However, with this freedom and power, you have great responsibility and accountability

This year, World Press Freedom Day carries a weightier significance as we face the triple planetary crisis of climate change, biodiversity loss, and air pollution. In Mongolia, we have just recently survived a severe winter, with extreme dzuds causing immense livestock losses and horrendous air pollution.

In the face of these crises, the role of media, journalism, and the dissemination of reliable information becomes paramount. Independent journalists and activists are not mere observers but vital actors in our fight against misinformation and environmental degradation.

Many Mongolian media outlets and journalists have diligently pursued environmental justice, investigating wrongdoing, exposing corruption, and amplifying the voices of those most affected by climate change and natural disasters.

Yet, we are acutely aware of the challenges faced by journalists, including potential personal risks stemming from physical, economic, and digital threats. However, amidst these challenges lie opportunities. We must safeguard environmental and scientific journalism as a means to protect our planet and promote sustainable development, leaning on media cooperation and leadership to empower citizens to engage in climate action.

Lastly, I wish to highlight an important issue that draws greater attention on the global stage—the upcoming Summit of the Future in September in New York. Among its priority topics, a session relevant to media and journalists will explore the emerging trends of digitalization and the leveraging of AI. This session will address Information Integrity in Digital Platforms, proposing a Code of Ethics to counter online mis- and disinformation and hate speech—an ever-growing threat to our society's well-being. Stay tuned for further updates on this matter.

Thank you once again for your invitation. It is always a pleasure to convene on this special day each year. I encourage you to continue your outstanding work, knowing that you have the solid support of the UN.

Happy World Press Freedom Day!

Thank you.