The Government of Grenada would like to join with journalists around the world in the celebration of World Press Freedom Day.

The Government recognises the importance of a free media and has helped to create a climate here in Grenada, where journalists are able to practice their profession without fear of victimisation.

Government recognises freedom of the press as a right and not a privilege but also believes that journalists must understand that with freedom comes responsibility. Journalists should be free but also fair. Government endorses the theme for this year's celebration, "The Media as a Force for Change" which establishes the link between a free press and poverty eradication.

The media and all members of society should recognise that the way a country is portrayed in the media locally, regionally and internationally directly impacts the image of the country.

If the media is prepared to portray their country in a fair way then the entire country benefits. However, if a country or groups or individuals in the country are portrayed in an unfairly negative way then the entire country suffers especially the poorest and most vulnerable members of society.

It is in this context that countries across the region should examine the way they are portrayed regionally and internationally and the impact this is having on the positive development of that country.

(Submitted by the Government of Grenada)