The United Nations Association–Ghana (UNA-GH), an affiliate of the World Federation of United Nations Associations (WFUNA) sends well-wishes to all protectors of press freedom as the world marks International Day of Democracy on Thursday 15th September, 2022 on the theme: “Protecting Press Freedom for Democracy.”
The International Day of Democracy is celebrated around the world on 15th September each year. It was established through a resolution passed by the UN General Assembly in 2007, encouraging governments to strengthen and consolidate democracy. Democracy Day is an opportunity to review the state of democracy around the world.
The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, in his message on International Day of Democracy notes,
“Today marks the 15th anniversary of the International Day of Democracy. Yet across the world, democracy is backsliding. Civic space is shrinking. Distrust and disinformation are growing. And polarization is undermining democratic institutions. Now is the time to raise the alarm. Now is the time to reaffirm that democracy, development, and human rights are interdependent and mutually reinforcing. Now is the time to stand up for the democratic principles of equality, inclusion, and solidarity. And stand with those who strive to secure the rule of law and promote the full participation in decision-making.
This year, we focus on a cornerstone of democratic societies – free, independent, and pluralistic media. Attempts to silence journalists are growing more brazen by the day – from verbal assault to online surveillance and legal harassment – especially against women journalists. Media workers face censorship, detention, physical violence, and even killings – often with impunity. Such dark paths inevitably lead to instability, injustice and worse. Without a free press, democracy cannot survive. Without freedom of expression, there is no freedom. On Democracy Day and every day, let us join forces to secure freedom and protect the rights of all people, everywhere.”
According to the Media Foundation for West Africa, “In April 2022, Ghana was plunged into shock and lamentation when it fell 30 places in the world and 10 places in Africa in the press freedom ranking established by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). Back in 2018, Ghana topped the continent and placed 23rd in the world. The country even hosted the 25th celebration of the World Press Freedom Day, jointly organised by UNESCO and the Government of the Republic of Ghana. It was only the second time a West African country had hosted the global event. It is evident that the heavy falls in the latest rankings follow a steady deterioration of the country’s press freedom environment over the years. The slump is mainly due to a number of abuses against journalists and the shrinking civic space.”
The United Nations Association of Ghana calls on the government, media actors, regulators, practioners and consumers to protect the press freedom of Ghana to safeguard the Fourth Estate of the Realm (the media). Abuses against journalists must be halted to foster an atmosphere of freedom of expression. The media must also operate within the ambit of the law and the Code of Ethics and Guidelines of media regulators such as the Ghana Journalists Association, National Media Commission and the National Communications Authority. All citizens must use legal processes to address issues they have with the media and not take the law into their hands.
A free press has, and continues to advance the cause of democracy in Ghana. Let’s together protect the freedom of the media to consolidate our fledgling democracy.
Happy International Day of Democracy!
SIGNED
Conrad Kakraba
Media and Public Relations Manager,
United Nations Association-Ghana.
Email: ckakraba@unagh.org
Mobile: 0206730382/0549572991
ABOUT UNA-GH
Our Vision: UNA-GH is established as non-governmental, non-partisan, non-profit-making,
progressive and registered organization to become the main people’s (mass) movement of the UN
for the creation of a global village devoid of conflict, diseases, poverty, hunger, illiteracy and
underdevelopment.
Our Mission: UNA-GH exists to formulate, executive and sustain strategic projects and
programs in Ghana and elsewhere through collaboration with governments, World Federation of
United Nations Association (WFUNA), United Nations Associations (UNAs), UN Agencies and
development partners by educating and engaging people in the work of the UN for the
achievement of its goals.
Our Goals
● To consciously, efficiently disseminate information about the purpose, work,
● achievements and challenges of the UN.
● To nurture and promote peace and also foster National and international brotherhood.
● To prevent, manage and resolve conflicts.
● To promote human rights, democracy and good governance.
● To work towards the empowerment of vulnerable groups like illiterate women, children,
● youth and the physically challenged.
● To prevent and combat the spread of deadly diseases.
● To undertake sustainable development projects with the view to achieve sustainable
● development goals.
Our National Executives:
● Bishop Peter Kojo Sackey, National President
● Prof. William Gyadu- Asiedu, 1st Vice President
● Hon. Francis Xavier-Sosu, Esq, 2nd Vice President
● Nana Dr. Ama Amissah III, 3rd Vice President
● Nene Amanor Aklebeto I, Secretary General
● Rev. Dr. Mark Nii Lamptey, Deputy Secretary General
● Mr. Wilberforce Andrews, National Treasurer
● Mr. Stephen Kojo Sackey, Director, Communications & Int’ l Relations
● Mr. Lord Asante Fordjour, Director, Projects & Membership
