Pope Leo Condemns Violations of Press Freedom, Remembers Journalists Who Died

Pope Leo XIV condemned the violation of press freedom. (Photo: Vatican News)

JAKARTA - Pope Leo commemorated World Press Freedom Day by condemning the violations of media freedom that still occur in various parts of the world. He also paid tribute to journalists who were killed while covering in conflict areas.

Reported by Arab News, Monday, May 4, the Pope delivered the message at the end of Sunday prayers in St. Peter's Square, Vatican City.

"Today we commemorate World Press Freedom Day. Unfortunately, this right is often violated, sometimes openly, sometimes in a more hidden form," said the Pope.

He called on the public to remember journalists who lost their lives while pursuing the truth, especially in conflict areas.

"We remember many journalists and reporters who are victims of war and violence," he said.

World Press Freedom Day is commemorated every May 3 and is supported by UNESCO, the United Nations cultural agency. This commemoration is a form of support for media organizations that face pressure or censorship, as well as a momentum to remember journalists who died while on duty.

In a number of previous speeches, the Catholic Church leader described journalism as a pillar of society and democracy. He called information a public good that must be guarded and protected from manipulation.

The Pope also often thanked journalists for telling the truth. He emphasized that journalistic work can never be considered a crime, and often calls for the release of journalists who are detained or unfairly tried.