DILI, 03 may 2024 (TATOLI) – The President of the Republic, Jose Ramos Horta, urges journalists in Timor-Leste and globally to embrace their crucial responsibility as environmental watchdogs.
President Horta made the comments on the occasion of the celebration of the World Press Freedom Day.
Horta said that Journalists have a pivotal role to play in covering environmental crisis objectively, persistently, and comprehensively: “Wield your pens and cameras as tools to defend the planet. Only by raising awareness through an unfettered press, we can build the public and political will to take bold action.”
He said that the environment has no voice of its own- it needs the voices of the free press to be its advocates for preservation and restoration.
“On this World Press Freedom Day, let us renew our commitment to a Press for Planet that illuminates environmental truths, inspires change, and safeguards the natural world for generations to come,” the Head of State said in a statement.
He said: “I commend the vital work of journalists who shine a light on one of the most urgent threats facing humanity – the environmental crisis. A free and independent press is essential for raising awareness, driving action, and holding leaders and institutions accountable on environmental issues.”
“In Timor-Leste, our young nation has experienced first-hand the devastating effects of climate change including decreased agricultural production, food insecurity, water shortage, infrastructure destruction, loss of life, and human displacement. Our futures and fortunes are intertwined with the health of our air, land, and seas. We must protect the precious environment that sustains us,” Horta said.
The Head of State emphasized that: “The 2024 theme “A Press for Planet” is a poignant call for journalism to focus its lens on the degradation of our natural world. From climate change to biodiversity loss, pollution to deforestation, the environmental emergency impacts every nation, every community, every person on this planet we call home.”
“My best wishes to all the journalists who are bravely carrying out this vital work,” Horta concluded.
Journalist: Jose Belarmino de Sa
Editor: Filomeno Martins
