Public goods are so accessible that they are often taken for granted. Information, for example, is a fundamental part of this because it is always available, it is an irreplaceable right and it is the condition without which democracy cannot exist. Yet, very often, its importance is compromised by the exercise of power, attacks and censorship.
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, UNESCO and DDB Paris have decided to defend the right to information with a simple and direct campaign. Entitled “Questions That Matter“, the campaign raises questions about the individual and collective consequences of a lack of freedom.
By asking five questions and confronting readers directly with the effects of censorship, UNESCO has tried to make the dangers of omission real. Without the opportunity to ask questions and receive answers in fact, we are all deprived of the chance to know, investigate and denounce.
“The sovereignty of the people and the freedom of the press are two entirely correlative things.”
Alexis de Tocqueville
– Read also: “Wasteminster”, Greenpeace provokes Boris Johnson’s environmental policy
World Press Freedom Day is an occasion to reflect on issues of freedom and professional ethics, it is an opportunity to support those who are targeted by restrictions and it is a day of commemoration. With “Questions That Matter“, UNESCO hits the nail on the head because through contrast it highlights the lack of pluralism and independence of free expression.
See the campaign images here and find out more about the site.
