Miami (May 3, 2021).- Within the framework of World Press Freedom Day, the Inter American Press Association (IAPA) and the Office of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression, remembered through a video the most than 500 journalists and media personnel who died in the Americas due to the pandemic.
"We honor the women and men of journalism, as well as all the media personnel who exposed and gave their lives fulfilling their commitment to keep the public informed. There are many examples of his dedication and selflessness. Our total admiration goes to all of them," said Jorge Canahuati, president of the IAPA and CEO of the multimedia Grupo Opsa, from Honduras.
The Special Rapporteur, Pedro Vaca Villarreal, stated, "The Latin American press, amid the ferocity of the pandemic, plays a heroic role, taking extreme risks to keep society informed. Democracy needs this work that journalists assume with self-denial and courage."
"I am pleased that together with the IAPA we can offer this tribute," said Vaca Villarreal.
The video was produced by the Office of the Special Rapporteur, with the support of the IAPA, and can be freely reproduced by the media throughout the continent.
At its Mid-Year Meeting, held from April 20 to 23, the IAPA issued a resolution on media professionals in the pandemic, in which it urged journalists, media workers, and the media to strengthen health and safety protocols.
IAPA is a non-profit organization dedicated to the defense and promotion of freedom of the press and of expression in the Americas. It is made up of more than 1,300 publications from the western hemisphere; and is based in Miami, Florida, United States.
