European union commemorates World Press Freedom Day in Liberia

In commemoration of World Press Freedom Day 2021, the Delegation of the European Union to Liberia has organized a forum with students of the Mass Communication Department, University of Liberia. The forum created an opportunity for the students to interact with their senior colleagues and reflect on their roles in safeguarding information as a public good.

This event was organized under the theme, "Information as a Public Good - the Role of the Next Generation of Liberian Journalists."

Speaking at the forum, the Head of Delegation of the European Union to Liberia, Ambassador Laurent Delahousse, encouraged the students to strive to be professional at all times.

He said, " As a journalist, your mission is, to tell the truth. You must make people see the difference between the facts and commentary. You are, however, free to add your comments, but it is important you when you report the news, you separate the facts from those comments".

Ambassador Delahousse also encouraged the students to see themselves as contributing to freedom of information and free speech in Liberia.

Three seasoned Liberian media professionals took turns to speak to the students.

Delivering a talk on the theme, "Information as a Public Good - the Role of the Next Generation of Liberian Journalists." Mr. Charles Coffey, President of the Press Union of Liberia, noted the current crops of students have better opportunities to make a difference.

He said, “You must take advantage of the training opportunities to ensure your work is always accurate, balanced, objective, and fair to all.”

Madam Siatta Scott Johnson, President of the Female Journalists Association of Liberia, emphasized the need for the media to ensure women are not left out in their report. She said, “ethical reporting can only be achieved by increasing women’s participation in and access to the media and by promoting a balanced portrayal and voices of women in the media.”

Jonathan Paye-Layleh, a Freelance journalist for the BBC, encouraged them to exhibit a commitment to the profession while in school to build a solid foundation before going into the world. He said, “your intention for entering the profession should be to serve society. It is the calling,  and you have to be guarded by the ethics.”