In Support of World Press Freedom Day

In recognition of World Press Freedom Day tomorrow May 3rd, DCN reaffirms the importance of a free, independent press. Around the world, media organizations face escalating governmental threats, including efforts to reshape regulation, restrict access to information, defund public media, and discredit quality journalism.

At the same time, a few powerful technology platforms are eroding journalism's foundations both economically and ethically. Google has been found guilty of illegally monopolizing search and ad tech, inflicting measurable harm on publishers. And a Meta whistleblower recently testified that CEO Mark Zuckerberg not only sought to crush the news industry, but also personally led efforts to build censorship tools for the Chinese government-actions fundamentally at odds with a free press.

These threats, whether overt, covert or systemic, make it difficult for the free press to flourish. And, in a world where journalism cannot thrive, truth fades, power operates without scrutiny, and people are left without the information they need to understand and shape the forces that affect their lives.

We stand with our members-premium publishers rooted in integrity, trust, and journalistic excellence-and with journalists around the globe who uphold truth in the face of adversity. A healthy media ecosystem depends on a vibrant press that is protected, sustainable, and supported by its communities. We urge publishers, policymakers, advertisers, and the public to actively support its future.

Here are several ways to engage and show support:

• Subscribe to trusted news organizations: Direct support from audiences strengthens the ability of newsrooms to produce independent, high-quality journalism.
• Support public media: Visit Protect My Public Media today to learn more and to contact your elected representatives about the importance of public media.
• Champion clean, brand-safe advertising environments: Advertisers and agencies can take action by aligning budgets with trusted, high-quality publishers.
• Support and amplify trusted journalism: Share credible reporting widely to counter the spread of misinformation, just as bad actors amplify disinformation.
• Stand with journalists at home and abroad: Organizations like Reporters Committee for Freedom of the Press, The Committee to Protect Journalists, Reporters Without Borders (RSF), International Federation of Journalists, and UNESCO are among those doing important work to protect press freedom and journalists under threat.
• Push back on platform dominance: Advocate for policies that ensure fair competition and protect the original work of news organizations to support diverse, local, and independent journalism.
• Foster media literacy: Encourage educational initiatives that help audiences identify credible sources and value factual reporting.

Press freedom is not a guarantee; it is a shared responsibility. It is a right that we must steadfastly defend.