US Embassy on World Press Freedom Day: “Recent threats against Romanian investigative reporters have no place in a democratic, Western civilization”. President Iohannis’ message

The U.S. Embassy in Bucharest delivered a message on World Press Freedom Day, also referring to the recent threats against a Romanian investigative journalist.

“Today, we honor the many journalists and media actors who have dedicated their lives, often at great risk, to promote transparency and accountability throughout the world, including in Romania as well.  Recent threats against Romanian investigative reporters have no place in a democratic, Western civilization. Professional investigative journalists and the stories they bring to society – while at times critical, unflattering, or exposing – are a key component of democratic governance and economic success for all NATO countries, including Romania. Responsible media have a great role in serving the public interest. By fostering a free press, citizens and communities are more informed, active and engaged in political decision-making, and can better hold their government accountable,” says the American embassy’s message.

The embassy also stated that “freedom of expression, as well as rule of law, equality, humanity, and respect are the foundations upon which democratic states are built”, also adding that media and judicial freedom are at the heart of the NATO alliance.

“On the anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, we renew our commitment to promoting and protecting a free press.  We express our solidarity with responsible and brave Romanian reporters who resist pressures and threats in Bucharest as well as in various counties.  Promoting a free press means that we are stronger together, that we stand up for the right to truth and for better, more prosperous and secure lives.”

President Iohannis’ message

President Klaus Iohannis has also delivered a message on the World Press Freedom Day, saying that journalists who dedicated their life to find the truth and who contributed to imposing the transparency in the act of governance are celebrated today.

“Today we celebrate the journalists who dedicated their life to find the truth and who contributed, through work, to imposing the transparency and accountability of the act of governance. You have my entire support!”, the Romanian President posted on Twitter.