World News Day calls for collective defence of journalism: #HoldTheLine

"Democracy is in retreat across the world. Aspiring strongmen are undermining the laws, norms, and institutions that are the bedrock of free societies. A primary target of this project is the press - because when journalists are kept from providing independent information to the public, it becomes far easier for those in power to act with impunity."

At the 50th anniversary of the Investigative Reporters and Editors organisation (IRE) earlier this week AG Sulzberger, publisher and chairman of The New York Times, called out the 'anti-press playbook' - and called on journalists to stand up for journalism and show why it matters.

This clarion call is intensified in the run up to World News Day on 28 September, when the global news media industry unites to draw public attention to the role that journalists play in providing trustworthy news and information that serves citizens and democracy.

The timing is crucial. The need for news media organisations to unite in solidarity against the very real threats to press freedom has never been greater.

This past week, as the fifth Global Summit on Disinformationtackled one of the greatest ongoing threats to democracy, the US administration intensified its efforts to suppress press freedom- even while denying doing so.

This is our final call to journalists, editors, newsrooms the world over to join our global campaign to stand up for credible journalism.

Why Participate?

World News Day is about demonstrating the value of journalism as an essential public service at a time when misinformation spreads rapidly. The campaign reminds audiences worldwide that truth, facts and journalism matter.

By participating, you too can:

• Show case your commitment to fact based journalism

• Promote media literacy and information integrity.

• Access official campaign assets - including ads, images, videos, and op-eds - to amplify your newsroom's efforts.

World News Day is about demonstrating the value of journalism as an essential public service at a time when misinformation spreads rapidly. The campaign reminds audiences worldwide that truth, facts and journalism matter.

How to Get Involved

Participation is open to news organisations, newsrooms and media support organisations . Register today to receive official campaign materials and join this global effort.

Register here
For enquiries, contact [email protected]

About World News Day

World News Day is organised by WAN-IFRA, the Canadian Journalism Foundation, and Project Kontinuum, in partnership with organisations committed to strengthening the role of trusted journalism worldwide.

This is the final opportunity to sign up. Join World News Day 2025 and add your newsroom's voice to the global call for fact-based journalism.

WAN-IFRA Staff

[email protected]