Nearly two decades ago, the UN General Assembly proclaimed May 3 as World Press Freedom Day as a reminder that free, independent press is essential to democracy and is a fundamental human right.
In honor of that occasion, the United Nations Education, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has organized a conference at the Newseum in Washington, D.C. this Monday through Tuesday, with a focus on how Internet and digital platforms are contributing to freedom of expression, democratic governance and sustainable development across the globe.
You are invited to tune in to the livestream above to watch the discussions both days. Monday’s schedule is listed below.
Schedule
9:00-9:30 a.m.: Freedom of the Press 2011 Index
A presentation of the findings of Freedom House’s annual Freedom of the Press index, broadcast live from the Newseum’s Press Freedom Galle ry.
- Introductory remarks by David J. Kramer, Executive Director, Freedom House
- Karin Karlekar, Freedom House, Senior Editor, Freedom of the Press 2011, United States
9:45 – 10:45 a.m.: Press Freedom: How Far Have We Come and Where are We Going?
Two decades ago, the Windhoek Declaration proclaimed a free media essential to democracy and economic development. Reflecting on Freedom House's latest mapping of media freedom, where does the world stand on media freedom in 2011? How are digital media, social networks, and mobile platforms expanding information access? And where are they being blocked?
- Welcome: Janis Karklins, Assistant General-Director, Communication and Information, UNESCO, Latvia
- Moderator: TBD
- Karin Karlekar, Freedom House, Senior Editor, Freedom of the Press 2011, United States
- Frank LaRue, Rapporteur for Freedom of Opinion and Expre ssion, United Nations,...
