On 3 May every year journalists around the world celebrate World Press Freedom Day.
It is an occasion to emphasize the importance of respect of freedom of the press and its strong relationship with the respect and defence of human rights.
It is an important occasion to remember courageous journalists who sacrificed their lives within the scope of their work as journalists.
The Al Mezan Center for Human Rights emphasizes the relationship between human rights and press freedom within the work of the press.
Al Mezan will continue its efforts to defend press freedom, press work, freedom of opinion and expression, and freedom to access information and to publish it.
Al Mezan congratulates journalists for their work around the world, with particular recognition of Palestinian journalists, on World Press Freedom Day.
Al Mezan expresses regret over schisms existing within the scope of press work, notably affecting Palestinian journalists.
Al Mezan calls on Palestinian journalists to make good use of the positive and dynamic atmosphere present after the signing of the reconciliation agreement on 23 April and to build cohesion within their work.
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The Israeli and internal violations against the Palestinian population require exceptional efforts and coordination from journalists in order to be disclosed and reported on effectively.
Al Mezan reiterates its previous calls as follows: Unify the work of the press and bridge the gap between journalists to enhance procedures needed for their protection, freedom of opinion and expression, and other public freedoms; Enhance work to establish laws that regulate press work, contribute to and strengthen existing freedoms, and implement regulations that prevent negative press work; and Encourage the issuing of newspapers and establishment of new media organizations by limiting bureaucratic procedures and not imposing high fees or taxes.
Al Mezan reiterates its calls on the international community to intervene to protect journalists in the occupied Palestinian territory.
Al Mezan calls on local and international journalist organizations and unions, particularly the International Federation of Journalists, to show their solidarity and take actions to prevent violations against Palestinian journalists and ensure that perpetrators of such violations are held accountable according to international standards.
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