*EPF407 05/03/01
Text: World Press Freedom Day Celebrates Benefits to Society
(State Department statement on May 3 event) (370)

World Press Freedom Day May 3 is a time to consider the many benefits that a free press brings to society, the State Department says.

At the same time, department deputy spokesman Philip Reeker said in a statement issued May 2, "We must recognize that in many countries, freedom of the press is but a distant dream."

Following is the text of the deputy spokesman's statement:

(begin text)

U.S. Department of State
Office of the Spokesman

May 2, 2001 2001/341

STATEMENT BY PHILIP T. REEKER, DEPUTY SPOKESMAN

World Press Freedom Day

Tomorrow, May 3, is World Press Freedom Day. It is altogether fitting that we set aside this day to consider the many benefits that a free press brings to our people, our society and institutions.

At the same time, we must recognize that in many countries, freedom of the press is but a distant dream. In far too many lands, journalism remains a very dangerous occupation. Those who dare to confront tyranny, investigate corruption and report on the abuse of power, are often met with violence, intimidation and even death.

Our nation has always believed in the fundamental importance of freedom of speech and the press. This is reflected in our Bill of Rights, our long tradition of an open press, and the accessibility of government officials and information to the press.

The Department of State, along with our embassies abroad and the U.S. Agency for International Development are committed to strengthening the ability of the press to carry out its vital mission through the many programs we fund which support democracy and freedom of the press abroad. These run from training journalists, to grants for struggling independent media organizations, to diplomatic support where freedom of the press is in danger.

It is particularly important in this era of the Internet and global communications that we remain strongly committed to freedom of the press and to the protection of those who have dedicated their lives and fortunes to it.

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(Distributed by the Office of International Information Programs, U.S. Department of State. Web site: http://usinfo.state.gov)
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