Victor Hugo once said, “To learn to read is to light a fire. Every syllable that is spelled out is a spark.” In another striking line, he said, “One letter makes a flame.” These powerful words capture the very essence of the written word — a force capable of enlightening, challenging, inspiring, and even inciting change.
Nowhere is this power more evident than in the work of the free press. It is a beacon of truth during times of uncertainty, a voice for the voiceless, and a mirror reflecting both the triumphs and the failings of society. Across the world, freedom of the press remains one of the most vital pillars of democracy. It is a right that must be fiercely protected, respected, and cherished.
Each year, on May 3, the world comes together to commemorate Press Freedom Day. This day serves as a solemn reminder of the essential role that journalists play in shaping public discourse and holding power to account. It is also a time to honour those who have risked — and in many cases, lost — their lives in pursuit of truth. Press Freedom Day is not merely a symbolic date; it is a call to action, a plea for awareness, and a tribute to the unwavering courage of those who dare to report freely and truthfully.
A free press is far more than a hallmark of liberty — it is the very lifeline of a healthy, functioning society. Without it, corruption festers unchecked, misinformation spreads like wildfire, and justice is often muted. The press acts as a watchdog over those in authority, a storyteller preserving history for future generations, and an educator who informs the public.
When journalists are free to investigate and report without fear or interference, societies become more transparent, more accountable, and more just. But when this freedom is suppressed — through censorship, intimidation, or violence — the foundation of democracy begins to erode.
History is filled with examples of writers and journalists who stood bravely in the face of oppression. Their words have sparked revolutions, reshaped ideologies, and opened the eyes of entire generations.
They have borne witness to both war and peace, exposed injustice and corruption, and given voice to those the world has tried to silence.
These individuals are not merely writers; they are defenders of truth and champions of justice. On Press Freedom Day, we owe them not only recognition but also our deepest gratitude and an unwavering commitment to safeguarding the freedom they have worked so hard to uphold.
In the modern digital age, the role of a free press has become even more critical. While the internet has empowered more people to share their voices and engage with information, it has also made it easier for falsehoods and propaganda to spread.
In this complex landscape, responsible journalism serves as a compass — guiding readers through the chaos with clarity, evidence, and integrity. By defending press freedom, we ensure that truth is not drowned out by disinformation, nor silenced by fear.
It is important to recognise that freedom of the press is not a privilege for a few, but a universal right that must be upheld everywhere. The protection of this freedom does not rest solely on the shoulders of journalists; it is the collective responsibility of every citizen.
By supporting ethical journalism, resisting censorship, and valuing the truth, we help build a world where the press can continue to serve the greater good, unafraid and unbiased.
As we mark another Press Freedom Day, let us reflect on Victor Hugo’s enduring words and the spark ignited by even a single letter.
Let us honour the journalists, writers, and truth-seekers who shape our understanding of the world with integrity and courage. And above all, let us commit to defending their freedom — for in doing so, we are ultimately defending our own.
