Press freedom heroes awarded the Nobel Peace Prize
Recognising the importance of free and independent media, journalists Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov have been awarded the Nobel Peace Prize for 2021 “for their efforts to safeguard freedom of expression, which is a precondition for democracy and lasting peace.”
Freedom of expression is the fundamental right that free media is built upon. Today, by awarding the Nobel Peace Prize for 2021 to journalists Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov, the Norwegian Nobel Committee recognises the democratic value and importance of journalists and independent media in any society. This is an important statement as journalists and media around the world have, for the past decade, been facing increased repression and direct attacks for carrying out their work.
“At IMS we applaud the decision to give the Nobel Peace Prize for 2021 to Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov. They are simply two of the most dedicated proponents for freedom of expression, independent media and the public’s right to truthful information. In a time of increasing authoritarian repression and democratic decline globally, Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov are truly inspirational in their fight for the truth,” says Jesper Højberg, executive director of IMS.
In the Philippines and in Russia, Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov and their respective media organisations Rappler and Novaya Gazeta have managed to withstand countless attacks by the authorities while maintaining the highest level of integrity.
By awarding the Nobel Peace Prize for 2021 to Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov, the Norwegian Nobel Committee is recognising the tremendous sacrifice they have made personally in their struggle to be able to publish high-quality journalism. Additionally, the Committee is also underlining the inseparable nature of free and independent media and democracy. This year’s peace prize shines a much-needed light on the ongoing battle in countries around the world between courageous journalists on one side and authoritarian leaders and their henchmen on the other.
“The world today faces two major crises. One being the climate crisis, the other being the democratic backslide we are facing globally and have been for 15 years straight – a development journalists and free media are experiencing first-hand. Authoritarianism is spreading like a virus across all continents, and Russia and The Philippines are in that regard two prime examples of countries that have ridden the democratic rollercoaster during the last three decades,” says Jesper Højberg.
