Message of the Human Rights Defender of the Republic of Armenia, Ms. Anahit Manasyan, on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day
“Dear representatives of the mass media,
I warmly congratulate you on your professional day – World Press Freedom Day.
This day is yet another important opportunity to reaffirm the key role of the media in strengthening democracy and ensuring the rule of law. A free, independent and pluralistic media is one of the most important guarantees for the protection of fundamental human rights.
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Within the framework of the 2025 Annual Report of the Human Rights Defender, I have particularly emphasized the importance of ensuring the unhindered activities of media representatives as a cornerstone for the full realization of freedom of expression.
In this context, I find it concerning that journalists are being targeted and their professional activities obstructed. I highlight that the state must take clear and targeted steps to create a favorable environment for the proper operation of the media and fully ensure the safety of journalists.
In particular, it is necessary to develop and implement such mechanisms that will guarantee the free and safe operation of the media, as well as prevent violations of journalists’ rights and ensure the inevitability of liability in such cases.
At the same time, I find it important to stress that the professional activity of journalists must be carried out in accordance with high ethical standards and the principles of responsible journalism, excluding hate speech and discrimination in all their forms.
Dear representatives of the mass media,
As the Human Rights Defender of Armenia, I reaffirm my commitment to do my utmost to ensure the protection of your free and unhindered work.
Once again, I congratulate you and wish you effective, creative and productive work in strengthening democratic values and protecting human rights”.
