MAJURO| MAY 3, 2025

Opening remarks by Minister Jess Gasper, Jr for the Celebration of World Press Freedom Day with the My Pacific Island Film Competition sponsored by Pacific Media Institute

Yokwe aolep. Kamololo Anij. Moktata kile manit eo, Iroij im Lerooj ro ad, Rikaki ro ad, im Kien eo ad, President Hilda C. Heine. I would also like to recognize the presence of distinguished dignitaries, Taiwan Ambassador Steve Hsia. Kile kojwoj aolep ilo rainin aurok! Kein kajuon an Majol host a World Press Freedom Day. I am truly honored to be part of this historic occasion—the first time that the UN-designated World Press Freedom Day is being celebrated in the Republic of the Marshall Islands. I want to commend the Pacific Media Institute for sponsoring this important event, as well as the Embassy of Taiwan and other partners who support media freedom.

As the Minister responsible for V7AB, our government-owned radio station, I understand firsthand the vital role that free and independent media play in our society. Also under MoCIA, is the Division of Human Rights. Freedom of Press, is a Human Right.

As we gather here tonight, it’s important to reflect on how fundamental freedoms—particularly those of the press, speech, and religion—are essential to our democracy and way of life. These rights are enshrined in Article 2 of our Constitution, which guarantees the freedoms of thought, speech, press, religion, assembly, association, and the right to petition the government. This demonstrates how strongly our Marshallese forefathers valued personal freedoms and individual dignity.

Today, 46 years after our Constitution took effect, we continue to enjoy these freedoms. We are fortunate to have independent media outlets, such as the Marshall Islands Journal and Six9Too Productions Power 103.5FM. We also have unrestricted access to social media platforms—something many countries around the world cannot claim, where citizens face restrictions on their ability to use social media or maintain a free and independent press.

The freedom of the press is fundamental to a healthy democracy. It ensures transparency, accountability, and the free exchange of information—elements that are crucial for informed decision-making by our citizens. A free press amplifies diverse voices, promotes social justice, and helps protect individual and community rights. When the press is free, governments are held accountable, corruption is exposed, and public trust is strengthened. It empowers citizens to participate actively in their democracy and advocate for positive change.

On behalf of the Marshall Islands government, I want to reaffirm our strong support for media freedom and congratulate the organizers and sponsors of this significant event tonight.

Thank you.