IPC-SPJ Hub Calls for Stronger Press Freedom Protections, Launches New Publication

Our Reporter 

The International Press Centre (IPC), through its Safety and Protection of Journalists (SPJ) Hub, has called for renewed commitment to strengthening press freedom as the world marks World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) 2026.

In a statement issued on May 3, IPC joined the global community in commemorating this year’s theme, “Shaping a Future at Peace,” highlighting the vital role of a free, independent, and responsible media in promoting peace, democratic governance, and social cohesion.

The organisation recalled that WPFD was proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in December 1993 and is observed annually on May 3 to remind governments of their obligation to uphold press freedom and create a safe environment for journalists.

According to IPC-SPJ Hub data, no fewer than 23 incidents involving 28 journalists and two media organisations were recorded in 2025. 

These cases ranged from threats to life, abduction, unlawful arrest, and intimidation, to physical assault and murder. 

The report indicated that 23 of the affected journalists were male, three female, while two cases did not specify gender.

Online platforms recorded the highest number of attacks with 16 cases, followed by broadcast with 10, and print with one.

Speaking on the theme, IPC Executive Director, Lanre Arogundade, stressed that the media remains a critical pillar of truth and accountability, particularly in an era marked by conflict, misinformation, and political instability.

“At a time when the world continues to grapple with conflicts, misinformation, political instability, and shrinking civic space, journalism plays an essential role in amplifying marginalised voices and enabling informed public discourse necessary for sustainable peace and development,” he said.

Arogundade, however, expressed concern over the increasing risks faced by journalists globally, noting that harassment, unlawful detention, and violent attacks not only threaten press freedom but also undermine citizens’ right to access credible information.

He urged governments, security agencies, and other stakeholders to prioritise the safety of journalists and ensure accountability for crimes against media professionals.

The IPC also emphasised the need for ethical and responsible journalism, especially in conflict-sensitive reporting, calling on media practitioners to uphold professionalism, accuracy, and fairness while leveraging innovation to counter misinformation and hate speech.

As part of activities marking WPFD 2026, IPC, with support from the International Freedom of Expression Exchange, launched a publication titled “The Unseen Enablers.”

The publication examines the role of non-state actors in undermining press freedom and the safety of journalists in Nigeria. 

It sheds light on how these “unseen enablers” contribute to restricted access to information and challenges in news dissemination, while also encouraging collaborative efforts to address these threats.

IPC called on government institutions, civil society organisations, media owners, and the international community to work together in fostering a media environment that supports peace, justice, and inclusive development.

The organisation maintained that a peaceful future can only be achieved where the press isP free, diverse voices are heard, and truth prevails.