The European Union (EU) has condemned the continuous acts of violence against journalist and other media professionals and actors in the discharge of their duties and the exercise of their rights to freedom and expression. The EU has also reaffirmed its determination to support freedom of opinions and expressions as inalienable rights to be exercised by all based on the principles of equality and non-discrimination.
This was made known yesterday by Ms. Ferderica Mogherini, the High Representative of the EU for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy in a statement read on her behalf by Ambassador William Hanna, Head of the EU Delegationto mark the 2016 World Press Freedom Day in Accra under the theme “Access to Information and Fundamental Freedoms: This Is Your Right!”.
The statement reiteratedthe Windhoek Declaration principle that“the establishment, maintenance and fostering of an independent, pluralistic and free press is essential to the development and maintenance of democracy in a nation, and for economic development”.
Ms. Ferderica Mogherini mentioned that the right to freedom of opinion and expressionis a key component of democratic governance and development;“Freedom of information also contributes to better governance as it enhances transparency in public affairs and can be used as a tool to make governments accountable for their actions, particularly when access to information results in the exposure of human rights violations or corruption practices,”
According to her, the EU would continuously committed to promote and protect freedom of opinion and expression worldwide, not only offline but also in relation to the cyberspace and other information and communication technologies as highlighted by the adoption in 2014 of the EU Human Rights Guidelines on Freedom of Expression Online and Offline,”.
Ambassador Hannah further congratulated the Ghanaian press force for the good work and commitment to the democratic and governance process in the country.
By Ben David Twum – Ampofo
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