Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes: “1st of September “Let’s reflect on what we can do better to safeguard the freedom of the press that we enjoy in Aruba

Every year on September 1, the world celebrates the Day of the Press. Journalism is very important and it is not always easy to get the information they want. On behalf of the Government of Aruba, Prime Minister Evelyn Wever-Croes expresses respect, appreciation and admiration for those who take this work seriously.

Journalism is the means of communication between, for example, the government and its community.

Without the press this is not possible. We live in a society where transparency is a priority. Transparency and the sharing of all information is what should be the main point in the communication of a government with its people. For the Government of Aruba, this is our goal, our vision and our commitment, to share as much information as possible with everyone so that everyone is well informed, the Prime Minister said.

A good example of success is the Government’s communication to the community during the time of Covid. Communication was the main part that made Aruba so successful. This is also thanks to the press. September 1st is a day for us to pause, in this important work of the press, and think about what we can do to make this work a little bit better.

Freedom of the press is a freedom, a fundamental right that a country has. It can also be put at risk if not applied responsibly. When the press does not exercise this right in a responsible manner, then their own freedom is at risk. There are also many countries that do not recognize freedom of the press. “So if we put the concept, in Aruba we are blessed, we have good media that can transmit good information, but we also see the risks that can be if we misuse the important power that is the freedom of the press”, the Prime Minister remarked.

The Prime Minister appeals to all citizens, whether working in the press or not, to reflect on what we can do better to safeguard the freedom of the press that we enjoy here in Aruba, so that we are sure that we never lose it. On behalf of the Government, welcome, thank you for your cooperation. God bless you to continue to do this important work, the Prime Minister said.