The NUJ congratulates journalist Nobel Prize winners
Maria Ressa, chief executive of Philippine digital media company Rappler, and Dmitry Muratov, editor-in-chief of the Russian Novaja Gazeta, have won the Nobel Peace Prize for their “courageous fight” for freedom of expression.
Rappler has exposed the Duterte regime’s controversial, murderous anti-drug campaign and Novaja Gazeta has defended freedom of speech in Russia, despite six of its journalists being killed, including Anna Politkovskaja.
Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, said:
“The NUJ is proud that the journalists Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov have been recognised for their work, championing freedom and democracy and exposing corruption and crime, often at danger to themselves. The Nobel Prize committee said they were representatives of all journalists who stand up for democracy and freedom. This is why people should support journalism and the journalists who make personal sacrifices to hold power to account.”
The Norwegian Nobel Committee said:
“Free, independent and fact-based journalism serves to protect against abuse of power, lies and war propaganda. The committee is convinced that freedom of expression and freedom of information help to ensure an informed public. These rights are crucial prerequisites for democracy and protect against war and conflict. The award of the Nobel Peace Prize to Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov is intended to underscore the importance of protecting and defending these fundamental rights.
“Without freedom of expression and freedom of the press, it will be difficult to successfully promote fraternity between nations, disarmament and a better world order to succeed in our time.”