Honduras: PEN International launches #PENsarLibres, a campaign on the role of journalism in societies and democracy
22 November: PEN International, the Embassy of the United Kingdom in Guatemala, PEN Honduras and the Association for Democracy and Human Rights in Honduras (ASOPODEHU) presents #PENsarLibres (ThinkingFree), a campaign about the role of journalism in creating healthy societies and functioning democracies, and the role of States in guaranteeing the full exercise of free expression.
Carried out between 22 November 2023 and 1 February 2024 on regional and international social media networks and on Honduran radio and television channels, #PENsarLibres aims to raise awareness about the importance of free journalism.
As part of this initiative, the organisations sponsoring this campaign will invite Hondurans to express their views on the impact of journalism in their daily lives via social media. In addition, they will provide training to journalists on the functioning of the Inter-American system and the array of legal remedies they can use in order to have an adequate legal defence. They will also seek to engage in talks with the Honduran authorities to establish a constructive dialogue on media freedom and find joint solutions to the challenges faced by journalists.
#PENsarLibres is founded on the following principles:
· Freedom of the Media: Unhindered access to truthful information and ensuring adequate security for reporters are essential elements for fostering free thought and journalism.
· Crucial Role in Crisis: In times of crisis, democratic uncertainty, or upheaval, journalism becomes indispensable. Accurate information can save lives.
· Diverse Expression of Societies: Free journalism is more than a historical record; it is an expression of societies in their time. It serves as a record for indigenous and minority communities, giving voice to a wide variety of perspectives. This diversity fosters the development of knowledge and, at times, promotes academic research by bringing attention to critical issues.
· Driver for Change: Journalism, as a channel for societal expression, becomes a powerful driver for change. Free journalism underpins the freedom of individuals and societies.
Between January 2021 and September 2023, the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights recorded 944 cases of attacks against journalists and human rights defenders in Honduras, including the murder of 36 human rights defenders and 4 journalists.
The UK Embassy is firmly dedicated to promoting and defending freedom of expression, recognizing it as an indispensable pillar of a free and democratic society. Aligned with this commitment, the embassy actively collaborates with both local and international partners and organizations devoted to upholding this fundamental value.
Note to editors:
For more information about #PENsarLibres please contact Alicia Quiñones, Head of the Americas Region, at PEN International, email: alicia.quinones@pen-international.org
For media queries please contact Sabrina Tucci, PEN International Communications and Campaigns Manager, Sabrina.Tucci@pen-international.org