Latin American Press Day: AJH Calls for Respect for Freedom, the Right to Information, and Truth

June 7 marks Latin American Press Day. The theme chosen for this year's celebration is: "The Press Facing Authoritarianism". On this occasion, the Association of Haitian Journalists (AJH) calls for respect for the fundamental rights of journalists in the exercise of their duties in a national context marked by all kinds of violence.

In a statement released this Saturday, the AJH took the opportunity to call on Haitian authorities regarding their responsibilities. It urges the State to fully guarantee press freedom, in accordance with the Haitian Constitution and international treaties ratified by the country. In this declaration, the association demands an end to acts of intimidation, attempts at censorship, as well as the impunity too often enjoyed by perpetrators of violence against the press.

The AJH expresses its "full and complete solidarity" with Haitian journalists facing increasingly perilous working conditions. The association extended a special thought to displaced journalists, forced to flee their homes or newsrooms due to armed violence. "They live in precarious and uncertain situations, and deserve all our support and recognition," the statement reads.

Furthermore, the AJH invites media professionals to demonstrate "vigilance, professionalism, and ethical rigor," even in a hostile environment. Finally, the association commends "the courage, determination, and resilience" of journalists across Latin America who, despite threats, continue to defend the right to information and truth.