Mbabane, Eswatini – May 3, 2024 – The United States Embassy in Eswatini urged the government to uphold press freedom during a World Press Freedom Day commemoration. Chargé d’Affaires Caitlin Piper warned against proposals for government regulation of the media, stating it could threaten journalistic independence.
Piper advocated for a self-regulatory framework for the media, emphasizing the importance of accountability and ethical standards. “A free press serves as an independent lens through which trust between a government and its people can be built,” she said. “Constraining or controlling the media undermines this very trust, especially during a time when it’s most needed.”
The Chargé d’Affaires quoted President Biden in support of a free press. “Journalists are vital for any democracy,” President Biden said. “Their work allows for informed dissent, which is essential for building stronger societies.”
The US Embassy pledged its commitment to supporting press freedom in Eswatini. “Together, we can create a media that serves as a beacon of truth, illuminating the path towards a more just and equitable society for all Eswatini citizens,” Piper concluded.
