Society

UK High Commission reaffirms commitment to enhance to press freedom.

by Chi Emeh
15 May 2026 18:07
96 views

Participants in group picture

The Deputy British High Commissioner to Cameroon, Robert Fitzpatrick, has reaffirmed commitment to media freedom, stating the importance of a free and independent press as a pillar of democracy.
The commitment was made during the commemoration of the World Press Freedom Day at the UK High Commission in Yaounde.

The event brought together both Francophone and Anglophone journalists.

The event, celebrated with a high-level dialogue among journalists, was organised in collaboration with the Nous la Presse Network.

It created a platform for open and candid discussions on the state of journalism in Cameroon and the critical role the media plays in safeguarding democratic values.

Participants reflected on the challenges facing the profession, including ethical standards, economic pressures, and the need to maintain credibility and editorial independence in an evolving media landscape.

Moderated by SisterSpeak237 and Nous la Presse, the dialogue featured panel discussions that examined key issues such as the representation of women in the media, adherence to Commonwealth values, and the need to rebuild public trust in journalism.

The gathering, the UK High Commission said, underscored the urgency of strengthening professionalism within the sector to ensure the press remains both free and responsible.

In his address, the Deputy British High Commissioner, reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s enduring support for media freedom worldwide.

He highlighted the UK’s role as a founding member and current co-chair of the Media Freedom Coalition, emphasising ongoing efforts to protect journalists and promote free expression globally.

Participants shared a collective commitment to advancing a strong, ethical, and independent press, seen as essential not only to democracy but also to social cohesion and peace.

Participants expressed hope that such engagements will translate into concrete actions to support journalists and strengthen the foundations of democracy in the country. Attendees also emphasised that democracy dies when the press is weak.

The sentiment framed the broader call for a resilient media ecosystem capable of holding power to account while fostering informed public discourse.

This article was first published in The Guardian Post Edition No:3787 of Tuesday May 12, 2026