World Press Freedom Day
2026/05/04
This day has been observed on 3 May every year since 1993. The focus of this day is not only on safeguarding freedom of the press, but also on remembering the dangers and restrictions that journalists face in their work – not only in crisis zones.
UNESCO proposed this date because on 3 May 1991, African journalists called for free, independent and pluralistic media for Africa and the whole world in the ‘Windhoek Declaration’. The importance of a free and independent press for democracy has become increasingly clear in recent times.
A small selection of recommended reading from the ULB’s collection is intended to encourage people to explore topics such as forming opinions, gathering information and evaluating it during ‘Freedom of Expression Week’ (3–10 May).
Current figures 2026 – Reporters without borders (RSF)
