Hundreds of thousands of media workers across the globe will gather today to commemorate World Press Freedom Day.

Pacific Islands News Association President Kora Nou says in the Pacific, national media organizations are organizing activities to celebrate the day and be reminded of the important role the media plays in promoting democracy and rule of law.

Nou says the media can only play this role well if it is guaranteed freedom of expression to deliver messages to the people without being oppressed or intimidated by authorities or any entities that have authority to prevent information from the people.

He says media plays a crucial role in shaping a healthy democracy.

This year’s theme is “The role of the Media in Elections and Democracy.”