The director-general of the BBC has said there is a “growing assault on truth” that poses a threat to societies and democracies around the world.
Tim Davie made the comment to coincide with World Press Freedom Day, which takes place on Monday.
He said journalists across the globe face “intimidation, harassment and hostility”.
Mr Davie said in a statement: “In the midst of the Covid pandemic, it is clearer than ever why people need access to trusted, impartial news.
Hostility
“Trusted information is an essential public good, but many journalists around the world – including those from the BBC – are facing intimidation, harassment and hostility.
“Some even face threats to their lives and liberty.”
He added: “This growing assault on truth represents a profound threat to the health of societies and democracies worldwide.
“We stand in solidarity with journalists and other media organisations who continue to fight for truth and media freedom.”
Mr Davie took over from Lord Tony Hall as BBC director-general in September last year.
Since you are here
Since you are here, we wanted to ask for your help.
Journalism in Britain is under threat. The government is becoming increasingly authoritarian and our media is run by a handful of billionaires, most of whom reside overseas and all of them have strong political allegiances and financial motivations.
Our mission is to hold the powerful to account. It is vital that free media is allowed to exist to expose hypocrisy, corruption, wrongdoing and abuse of power. But we can't do it without you.
If you can afford to contribute a small donation to the site it will help us to continue our work in the best interests of the public. We only ask you to donate what you can afford, with an option to cancel your subscription at any point.
To donate or subscribe to The London Economic, click here.
The TLE shop is also now open, with all profits going to supporting our work.
The shop can be found here.
You can also SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER .
