As reported on the UNESCO website, on the 20th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day in 2013, UNESCO Director-General Ms Irina Bokova presented a medal to ICT4Peace Foundation board member Mr. Alain Modoux in recognition of his pivotal role in the establishment of World Press Freedom Day (WPFD).
For 20 years, May 3 has been a day when the world celebrates freedom of expression and stands together for its protection. This is the spirit of the 1991 Declaration of Windhoek, whose anniversary the United Nations General Assembly chose for World Press Freedom Day. UNESCO was instrumental in framing the Windhoek Declaration and works today to promote freedom of expression across the world.
In celebration of the 20th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, UNESCO has published a commemorative book “Pressing for Freedom: 20 Years of World Press Freedom Day”. Mr Modoux’s account of his work to establish this day on the international calendar can be read in the publication, and the relevant section is also reproduced below.
