IREX Honors its Media Partners on World Press Freedom Day 2008

May 5 marked the annual observance of World Press Freedom Day, a day to honor those who practice journalism and advocate for freedom of expression. This year marks the 60th anniversary of the UN Declaration of Human Rights, whose Article 19 stated that freedom of expression is a fundamental human right. IREX salutes the thousands of journalists and media professionals around the world with whom we have had the honor to work. In difficult circumstances they continue to strive to bring professional and free media to their countries. Whether it is media professionals in Somalia struggling against ongoing violence and instability, Serb journalists in Kosovo working to provide local news and information to their isolated enclaves, or Iraqi journalists facing daily threats to their lives, IREX recognizes the bravery and professionalism of its partners and colleagues.

Last year 64 journalists were killed due to their work as journalists, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. From Iraq, where 31 journalists died, to Somalia to Sri Lanka to Honduras, brave journalists trying to report openly and honestly suffered the worst possible consequence.

IREX media projects work with local partners to advance the professionalism and long-term economic sustainability of newspapers, radio, television, and Internet media. Specialized programs and small grants build skills for balanced, investigative reporting, better media management, and advocacy for press freedoms.