World Press Freedom Day Marked Today with Focus on AI’s Role in Journalism

Nepal joins the global community today in observing the 32nd World Press Freedom Day under the theme “Time to Put AI on the Social Agenda.” This year’s commemoration highlights the growing influence of Artificial Intelligence in media and journalism.

First proclaimed by the United Nations in 1993, the day honors the 1991 Windhoek Declaration on press freedom by African journalists. Although Nepal does not observe the day at the governmental level, it has been marked by non-governmental organizations since 1995 through discussions, events, and awareness activities.

UNESCO, which selects the annual theme, is spotlighting the intersection of press freedom and AI in 2025. Under the global slogan “Reporting in the Brave New World – The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media,” the focus is on both opportunities and risks posed by AI technologies in journalistic practice.

Experts note that AI has begun to reshape how news is gathered, verified, and delivered, with tools like automated reporting and data analysis becoming increasingly common. While such advancements can improve efficiency and insight, they also raise concerns about accuracy, manipulation, and editorial independence.

World Press Freedom Day serves as a reminder of the need to uphold freedom of expression, honor ethical journalism, and support media outlets under threat. It is also a day to pay tribute to journalists who have lost their lives in pursuit of the truth.