PUBLISHED: 4 May 2024 at 04: 00
As World Press Freedom Day was observed by the UN, two press employee parties on Friday urged the government to respect the right to press freedom and appearance.
Four important requests were made to the government and the media by the Thai Journalists Association ( TJA ) and the National Union of Journalists ( NUJ).
Second, they urge the government to support and defend press freedom, and to provide quick responses to requests for confirmation or verification of information from state agencies, mainly when the media requests such things as verification of information. They even urge the government to be open to criticism from the internet and the public.
Second, the TJA and NUJ said the media is suffering many difficulties, such as layoffs and financial challenges, and they call on the government to provide assistance with this matter.
With the third issue, they called on the authorities to defend citizens ‘ freedom of speech, especially the public’s ability to plan violent demonstrations. Government officials are prohibited from intimidating the public or the internet, even by filing legal suits against them.
The media organizations were required to act ethically and professionally while upholding moral standards in their third demand.
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, Spencer Anderson, the deputy director of the US Embassy in Bangkok, stated to the media that it is crucial to consider the important role a free and independent media works in shaping societies, both locally and globally.
Mr Anderson said the event even underscores the basic necessity of reliable, accurate data in fostering politics, promoting responsibilities, and advancing human privileges.
The media has never been more crucial in proving truth and holding power to consideration, he said, in a time when misinformation and disinformation are spread quickly.
As a reminder to government bodies and society to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression, the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization ( UNESCO ) has designated May 3 as World Press Freedom Day.