The AEJ is part of the UK Press Freedom Network of 20 journalistic and human rights bodies. Each year it supports the UNESCO UK National Commission by staging a public debate to mark World Press Freedom Day on 3 May. See UK section’s website.
In 2010, the debate was brought forward to 9 April to allow for the UK’s general election in May. The motion, “Unregulated political comment online helps the democratic process”, was endorsed by a majority of more than two to one.
The 2009 debate resulted in a conclusive victory for the motion, “Governments at war are winning the battle to control the international media”. In 2008, “New Media is Killing Journalism”, was defeated by more than three to one.
UNESCO’s UK website contains further material, including UNESCO’s programme of work in the media freedom field. A prize for student journalists is awarded to mark the day by UNESCO’s UK National Commission.