AN INTERNATIONAL conference on media and good governance held in Dakar from May 1 to 3 ended with the adoption of a declaration calling for respect for press freedom, access to information, and a repeal of criminal defamation laws.
The declaration was adopted by some 150 participants representing the world's major media and freedom of expression organisations. They were in Dakar to attend the conference, organised by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, UNESCO organised to celebrate World Press Freedom Day.
The declaration stresses that "independent and pluralistic media are essential for ensuring transparency, accountability and participation as fundamental elements of good governance and human rights-based development," essential for the reduction of poverty.
