His Majesty King Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifa has saluted Bahrain journalists and media personnel, stressing that they are partners in the ongoing comprehensive development process in the kingdom.

 

In a message marking World Press Freedom Day, observed today all over the world under the theme “Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights”, HM the King expressed pride in Bahraini journalists for their commitment to professional ethics, and adherence to impartiality and credibility, within a modern democratic and constitutional framework that allows them to carry out their duties independently, freely and responsibly.

 

HM the King underscored that the National Action Charter and the Constitution had guaranteed freedom of press and human rights in the Kingdom, being the foundations for the progress and development of society.

 

Efforts continued to develop the legislative, regulatory and institutional aspects to consolidate the freedom of press and protect human rights, HM the King said.

 

HM King Hamad affirmed that the diversity of press and media tools in today’s world requires adherence to the “truth” while addressing different subjects, given the fact the public opinion has the right to have access to accurate information which journalists are required to provide.

 

HM the King stressed that the consolidation of the freedom of press should go hand in hand with combating misinformation, as the former could potentially result in devastating effects on societies, institutions, democracy and human rights should it be misused, as misinformation could lead to discord and disruption of development efforts.

 

HM King said that hate speech, in all its forms, is a form of misinformation that affects human rights and dignity, stressing the importance of reaching a universal agreement to criminalise hate speech.

 

Within this context, HM the King commended the ongoing cooperation between the executive and legislative branches in all areas, including formulating regulations and laws that support freedom of expression and press, and create more gains for Bahraini journalism.

 

HM King Hamad also commended the role of the Information Ministry in working towards enhancing the regulatory framework that supports freedom of media in cooperation with the Bahrain Journalists Association (BJA).

 

He also highlighted the efforts made by the Information Ministry, alongside BJA and the national press, to develop all forms of media content, showcase Bahrain’s national identity and rich cultural heritage, as well  as lay the foundations for free and objective speech, cement the concepts of loyalty and belonging to the homeland, and protect the right to knowledge.

 

HM the King wished the Arab peoples and the entire humanity more progress, prosperity and security.