Every year on May 3, World Press Freedom Day reminds us why journalism matters—and why it’s under threat. In 2025, the stakes feel higher than ever. The theme, “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” captures both the promise and peril of this moment. 

Let’s talk about what this day really means, why it still matters, and how journalists—despite censorship, violence, and digital manipulation—keep pushing forward.  

What Is World Press Freedom Day?

World Press Freedom Day was established by the United Nations in 1993 to commemorate the Windhoek Declaration, a 1991 statement by African journalists advocating for a free, independent, and pluralistic press. It’s more than a symbolic date—it’s a global call to action: defend press freedom, protect journalists, and ensure the public’s right to information.

Theme for 2025: “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media”

This year's theme delves into the profound influence of Artificial Intelligence (AI) on journalism and media. AI is transforming the media landscape, offering tools that enhance investigative reporting, content creation, and fact-checking. However, it also brings challenges:

• AI-generated misinformation and deepfakes.
• Bias in content moderation.
• Surveillance threats to journalists.
• Concerns about fair remuneration for journalistic content.
  
  

UNESCO's signature event on May 7 in Brussels will explore these issues, bringing together journalists, policymakers, and media professionals to ensure AI strengthens, rather than undermines, press freedom.
 

2025 Theme: Journalism Meets AI

This year’s theme zeroes in on artificial intelligence (AI)—how it’s reshaping journalism and what that means for press freedom.
 
The Good:
 

• AI can help journalists analyze data faster, translate stories across languages, and automate routine tasks.
• It can enhance fact-checking and uncover patterns in large datasets.

The Bad:
 

• AI is also fueling disinformation—think deepfakes and algorithmic bias.
• It can be used to surveil journalists or suppress dissenting voices.

UNESCO’s signature event in Brussels on May 7 will tackle these issues head-on, bringing together journalists, policymakers, and tech experts to explore how AI can serve—not sabotage—press freedom. 

Journalism Under Fire: The Reality in 2025

The numbers are grim. Since 1992, more than 1,800 journalists have been killed while doing their jobs. In 2024 alone, at least 124 journalists lost their lives—the deadliest year in decades. 
 
Many of these deaths occurred in conflict zones like Gaza and Lebanon, but threats aren’t confined to war zones. In democracies, journalists face harassment, lawsuits, and political pressure. In the U.S., recent changes to Justice Department policies have made it easier to investigate and subpoena journalists, raising alarms about source protection and press independence. 
 
 

Stories of Courage

Actress Maxine Peake recently portrayed Russian journalist Anna Politkovskaya in the film Words of War. Politkovskaya was assassinated in 2006 for exposing human rights abuses in Chechnya. Peake’s experience left her in awe of journalists’ bravery, especially those who continue reporting despite threats to their lives. 
 
Another poignant story is that of Shireen Abu Akleh, a Palestinian-American journalist shot while covering a raid in the West Bank in 2022. Her death remains unaccounted for, a stark reminder of the dangers journalists face and the impunity that often follows.
 
 

Global Events and Initiatives

 Beyond Brussels, World Press Freedom Day is being marked worldwide:
 

• Washington, D.C.: The National Press Club is hosting panels on global press freedom challenges. 
• Duluth, Minnesota: University of Minnesota Duluth's student press is organizing community events to highlight the importance of a free press. 
• Youngstown, Ohio: The Youngstown Press Club is holding discussions on the state of journalism today. 

These events underscore a shared commitment to defending press freedom across different communities.
 
 

The Role of AI: A Double-Edged Sword

 AI’s integration into journalism is a double-edged sword. While it offers tools for efficiency and broader reach, it also poses risks:

• Misinformation: AI can generate convincing fake news, making it harder for audiences to discern truth.
• Surveillance: Governments and corporations can use AI to monitor journalists, infringing on privacy and press freedom.

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) emphasizes that AI should not replace human oversight in journalism. Ethical guidelines and regulations are needed to ensure AI supports, rather than undermines, the integrity of the press. 
 

How You Can Support Press Freedom

• Stay Informed: Follow reputable news sources and be critical of the information you consume.
• Support Journalists: Donate to organizations that protect journalists and advocate for press freedom, such as the Committee to Protect Journalists.
• Advocate: Use your voice to demand transparency and accountability from governments and corporations regarding press freedom.
• Educate Others: Share information about the importance of a free press with your community.

Final Thoughts

World Press Freedom Day 2025 is not just a date on the calendar—it’s a reminder of the essential role journalism plays in our societies. In an era where technology can both illuminate and obscure the truth, the courage and integrity of journalists are more vital than ever. Let’s honor their work by staying informed, supporting press freedom, and advocating for a world where voices cannot be silenced.