The Federation of African Law Students (FALAS) over the weekend joined the world in celebration of World Press Freedom Day with a call for peace in the Gaza war.
World Press Freedom Day, celebrated on May 3 of each year, commemorates Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which upholds the right to freedom of opinion and expression, including the freedom to seek, receive, and share information through any media platform without hindrance.
During the observance of the Day, FALAS International Secretary General, Mr. Ephraim T. Nyumah called for a complete freedom for Palestine, with a collective demand to end the war in Gaza.
According to him, this year’s celebration holds particular significance amidst the ongoing conflict in which Israel’s actions in Palestine have resulted in the loss of innocent lives, including women and children.
He further stated that the current situation has made World Press Freedom Day poignant as journalists and media workers in Gaza face unprecedented dangers.
“On this occasion, FALAS urges Israel to adhere to Article 19 of the Geneva Convention (IV) on Civilians, which prohibits the forced deportation or transfer of protected persons from occupied territories, regardless of motive,” he urged.
Nyumah disclosed that Article 27 of the convention asserts the rights of protected persons to be respected in all circumstances, including their personal well-being, dignity, family rights, religious beliefs, and cultural practices.
He emphasized that Palestinians in the occupied regions of the West Bank and the Gaza Strip unequivocally meet the criteria as “protected persons” under the Fourth Geneva Convention (GCIV) and deserve full rights and freedoms.
“In alignment with this year’s global theme, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the face of the environmental crisis,” which underscores the vital role of journalism and freedom of expression amidst environmental challenges, FALAS calls for the complete liberation of the Palestinian people,” he concluded.
