THE European Union has issued a statement on World Press Freedom Day, with a vow to continue condemning violations of the right to freedom of expression in all media.

The declaration by the High Representative, Catherine Ashton, on behalf of the European Union, says: ON the 20th anniversary of World Press Freedom day, the EU pays tribute to journalists worldwide who dedicate their lives – sometimes at great personal cost – to reporting events or expressing views that many might prefer to silence.

A free, independent and vibrant press is indispensable in any democratic society.  The EU is determined to fight for press freedom worldwide and condemns the increasing level of intimidation, violence and censorship that journalists face in many countries. The EU calls on all governments to allow journalists to work in safety and security, and without the fear of censorship or prosecution.

Freedom of expression must be defended both in the traditional media and on the Internet. The EU will continue to promote freedom of expression online and offline, not least as new information technologies can be the key in promoting human rights and democracy. The EU will continue to condemn violations of the right to freedom of expression in all media with a view to ensuring that journalists across the world can discharge their professional duties without hindrance.