In congratulating both press professionals, let us recognize the fundamental role of journalists and encourage efforts at all levels to support a free, independent and diverse media, the secretary general said in a statement.

At this time, he said, anti-media rhetoric and attacks against media workers continue to increase, there is strong harassment against journalists and in particular, against women journalists.

While technology has transformed the way information is received and shared, it is also used to mislead public opinion or to fuel violence and hatred, the Portuguese diplomat said.

Falsehoods triumph over facts, and this cannot become the new normal; free and independent journalism is the greatest ally in the fight against disinformation and fake news, Guterres said.

He also highlighted the work of media professionals in being able to investigate wrongdoing, bring information to citizens, hold leaders accountable and speak truth to power.

As announced a few hours ago, the 2021 Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to Filipino journalist Maria Ressa and Russian Dmitry Muratov, editor-in-chief of the daily Novaya Gazeta.

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