12th International Photojournalism Meeting
“City of Gijon”

MANIFESTO on JOURNALISM AND HUMAN RIGHTS

Gijon, July 18, 2008

The Universal Declaration of Human Rights must be the ethical framework of journalism.

The right to information is a fundamental condition for the full development of a democracy which enables citizens to express their opinions and act freely.

Journalists and media organizations must contribute to the respect of human rights and their work should disclose all violations.

New technologies increase possibilities of access to new media which democratize the right to inform and be informed, and favor journalism development with a human rights focus.

The independence of journalists is vital for society and journalism is a public service for citizens. It cannot be subject to particular political or economic interests.

The defense of human rights is one of the main duties of journalism and journalists cannot carry out their job when their own human rights are violated.

Organizations and individuals can SIGN IT HERE