Freedom of expression

We welcome the bestowal of the 2009 International Press Freedom Award by the Committee to Protect Journalists to four journalists who are particularly committed to promoting press freedom. These include the Tunisian journalist Naziha Réjiba, the Azerbaijani journalist Eynulla Fatullayev, the Sri Lankan journalist J.S. Tissainayagam and the AFP correspondent in Somalia Mustafa Haji Abdinur.

We extend to them our warmest congratulations for this prize which rewards daily commitment to protecting the freedom of journalists to carry out their work under conditions that are often difficult, sometimes risking their life or their freedom.

This award honors the professionalism, courageous efforts and determination that they demonstrate in order to defend human rights and democratic values.

France pays constant attention to the protection of journalists in armed conflict and it is within this context that we pay tribute in particular to Mustafa Haji Abdinur, the young and courageous AFP correspondent in Somalia.

On France’s initiative, the UN Security Council unanimously adopted, in December 2006, resolution 1738 which reaffirms the need to prevent acts of violence against journalists, to bring those responsible for the violence to justice, and reminds the States of their obligations under international humanitarian law.

The presentation of this award provides an opportunity for the Minister of Foreign and European Affairs to honor the tireless and courageous efforts of journalists throughout the world to protect the freedom of information. France is always attached to the freedom of the press and will remain committed and mobilized in support of the many journalists that are still being persecuted and arbitrarily detained.