Forum encourages press freedom (PRESS RELEASE) - Media freedom and freedom of information are essential for good governance, development and peace in the Pacific region. "This is why we would encourage all in the Pacific region to make it a commitment to removing all obstacles to press freedom, to ensure the right conditions for an independent and professional media exist, and to empower their citizens to engage in public debate," Peter Forau, Acting Secretary General of the Forum Secretariat said on the eve of World Press Freedom Day, May 3. Freedom of expression is a fundamental human right recognized in Article 19 of the United Nations Declaration of Human Rights. The UN General Assembly proclaimed World Press Freedom Day in 1993 and the Day has been observed on May 3 ever since. "All citizens at all levels of our societies must be allowed to exercise their right to freedom of expression without undue sanction by governments," said Forau. "Essentially media freedom is the universally accepted true manifestation of the exercise of this right. Also media freedom is the hallmark of true democracy and no government can claim to respect the values of democracy if it cannot respect and protect media freedom." Forau encourages the media in the region to do their work in a professional manner without fear or favor and with responsibility. He said for this to happen, the media must have a conducive environment supported by governments to perform their duty of informing the public. Last year the Pacific Islands Forum Secretariat signed a Memorandum of Understanding with the Pacific Islands News Association (PINA) the premier media association in the region with membership from all the Forum member countries. PINA defends press freedom in the region as well as provides training for its membership. © Osini Faleatasi Inc. dba Samoa News reserves all rights.