Minister Warns: Terrorism and Anarchy Threaten Press Freedom

Minister for Communication and Information Technology Prithvi Subba Gurung said that terrorism, anarchy and dictatorship are threats to democracy and press freedom. Speaking at the Lomanthang International Media Summit organized under the aegis of Nepal Press Union in Lalitpur, he stressed the need to improve "working styles" to make democracy and media stronger.

He said press freedom and democracy go hand in hand, and added that efforts to fight climate change should be united and focused on public needs, not political interests.

Minister Gurung also mentioned that online media must be brought under regulation, as recent scams show the need to monitor social platforms. He emphasized that fair journalism and rule of law are key to strengthening democracy.

Sabina Inderjit, vice-president of the International Federation of Journalists, said press freedom is essential for strong democracy. Other speakers, including media leaders from Nepal, India, Bangladesh and Bhutan, also highlighted the link between climate change and press responsibility.

After the event, 120 journalists traveled to Lomanthang to continue the summit, which focuses on democracy, press freedom and climate change.