Field: Thanks to the determination and courage of journalists, we all benefit

Written by: Matthew Field, UK Ambassador to BiH

Among the many freedoms that make up a democratic and fair society, media freedom is often overlooked. World Press Freedom Day is an opportunity to remind ourselves of the crucial work done by independent journalists, in Bosnia and Herzegovina and around the world, and to show them how much we appreciate them.

Free media are a key pillar of a free society. They can protect citizens and expose abuses of power. Countries with the freest media, where transparency shines a light on all wrongdoing, have the lowest rates of corruption. When journalists and media organisations can freely do their job, societies are more prosperous and resilient. The free exchange of opinions and information that results enables the public to identify and pursue opportunities, and to recognise problems that need to be addressed.

This is often not easy. We all need to acknowledge the role that journalists and media workers have played in BiH during the COVID-19 pandemic. Many reported from the front lines of the health crisis and risked their own lives. As in many other sectors of the economy, we have witnessed increased financial pressure on media outlets.

But, for the United Kingdom, it has been equally concerning to see an increase in pressures and intimidation of journalists around the world. The methods and techniques are increasingly familiar, and also noticeable in BiH: cyber attacks on media, detention of journalists, verbal attacks while on assignment, threats and pressure on those investigating corruption cases, and personal attacks based on gender, ethnicity or other personal characteristics.

Female journalists are attacked in a particular way, similar to how female politicians and other women in public life are singled out, with additional abuse, threats or references to their private lives. As in other fields, this is a deliberate and consistent attempt to belittle their views and diminish their willingness to take on leadership roles.

Media freedom is a priority for the United Kingdom, and like many of my colleagues around the world, I try to fight against this abuse and stand with the victims, continuing to advocate for the role of independent media. I am often joined in this by others who share these values with us, including the OSCE, Canada, the United States, Sweden and the European Union. All of us who care about media freedom need to raise our voices.

The global campaign for media freedom that began three years ago is an indicator of that readiness, along with the Media Freedom Coalition of countries that defend free media. The United Kingdom is among the five largest donors in this area in the world. It is important to show practical support as well.

Here in BiH, the United Kingdom supports the Media for All programme with a large number of users, implemented by the British Council, to help independent media outlets become more financially sustainable and find new ways to connect with their audiences. In addition, support is provided to young journalists to build their skills, as well as numerous training opportunities. We invest in media literacy, and we are significant donors to the European Endowment for Democracy, which provides vital support to grassroots organisations, including those in the media space.

World Press Freedom Day is a reminder of the crucial work done by independent, professional journalists. We all benefit from their determination and courage. They help us have a voice, know what is really happening, and hold those in power accountable. In return, we owe them our support and gratitude.