When discussions ended after five days on 3 May, they had created the Windhoek declaration a declaration of free press principles.
Later that year, Unesco’s general conference endorsed the declaration.
In 1993, the UN General Assembly proclaimed 3 May as World Press Freedom Day.
It is marked annually around the world.
Sri Lanka has recorded a notable improvement in global press freedom, moving up in the latest rankings compared to the previous year. In 2024, the country was placed 150th, but in 2025 it has advanced to 139th position, marking a positive step forward for media freedom in the nation.
Despite this progress, regional comparisons show ongoing challenges. Afghanistan remains near the bottom of the index at 175th place, while Pakistan is ranked 155th, reflecting broader concerns about press freedom across parts of South Asia.
Media freedom is widely recognized as the fundamental right to report the truth without fear or interference. Societies that protect this right are better positioned to build systems grounded in truth, fairness, and liberty.
Observers note that while Sri Lanka’s upward movement is encouraging, continued efforts are essential to safeguard journalists and ensure an environment where independent reporting can thrive.
Gwen Lister was a newspaper editor at the time and chaired the seminar.
She tells Jen Dale about the conference and the personal costs of standing up for press freedom.
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