Delegation hosted a side-event during World Press Freedom Day 2024

This year’s World Press Freedom Day, celebrated from 2 May to 4 May in Santiago, Chile, brought together more than 2,500 participants from 116 countries to discuss the topic “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis.” A Danish team was also present and contributed actively to the discussions. This global event underscored the vital role journalists, as environmental defenders, play in informing the public and addressing the pressing issues of our time.

In the context of the planetary crisis, the need for accurate information has never been greater. The rise of disinformation, climate change denial, and threats to environmental defenders impede effective action against the triple planetary crisis. To combat these challenges, the Danish delegation travelled to Chile in order to discuss ways to build new alliances between journalists, scientists, and artists, who collectively ensure the public remains well-informed and engaged.

Our Delegation led the organisation of a side-event, in close collaboration with UNESCO, with the aim to link global and local efforts that address the need to enhance access to information, and promote the critical role of scientific researchers, journalist, artists covering issues related to the triple planetary crisis. The event benefited from the high-level participation of both UNEP and UNESCO leadership.

Discussions focused on UNESCO’s normative instruments, and participants explored concrete actions through UNESCO’s World Network of Biosphere Reserves. The Network includes 759 nature sites across 136 countries. The event emphasized the governance obligations of states, the involvement of local communities, scientific research, and media coverage, seeking innovative and collaborative approaches to promote and protect the roles and safety of journalists, scientists, and artists.

The Danish delegation has a longstanding commitment to freedom of expression and the safety of journalists, scientists and artists, informed by the Danish report ‘Critical Voices’ released in 2021. The Report addresses the shrinking civic spaces in relation to the COVID-19 pandemic.

By reinforcing the essential contributions of professionals, such as scientists, journalists and artists, the Danish side-event in Chile highlighted the critical need for their protection and the importance of their work in tackling the planetary crisis. The Delegation’s participation in World Press Freedom Day 2024 reaffirmed its dedication to defending freedom of expression and the critical roles that journalists, scientists, and artists play in our society.

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Setting the Scene: high-level discussion

UNEP Executive Director, Ms. Inger Andersen, emphasized the indispensable role of environmental defenders, including journalists, scientists, and artists. She highlighted their critical contributions to addressing the crises of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, and their vital function in holding power to account. Despite their importance, these defenders face increasing oppression, with 88 journalists killed in 2022 alone. Andersen called for new safeguards to protect and empower these vital voices in a world plagued by misinformation and hostility.

Key contributions and insights

journalists on the frontline

Tawfik Jelassi, UNESCO Assistant-Director General for Communication and Information Sector: Journalists are crucial for investigative work, truth-telling, and fostering the free flow of knowledge. Jelassi pointed out the alarming increase in journalist killings and the high impunity rate, particularly in Latin America. He highlighted UNESCO’s key tools, such as the UN action plan for journalist safety and the five principles behind the new UNESCO Guidelines on the Governance of Digital Platforms, which is part of UNESCO’s "Internet for Trust" initiative, aiming to make information a public good.

scientific integrity and freedom

Gabriela Ramos, UNESCO Assistant-Director General for Social and Human Sciences: Ramos addressed the troubling attacks on scientists and the spread of pseudo-science. She emphasized UNESCO’s efforts to safeguard scientific integrity, cultivate trust, and include science in policy decisions. Ramos also noted the establishment of a program on the freedom and safety of scientists, fostering an open and independent science ecosystem.

Protecting artistic expression

Ernesto Ottone, UNESCO Assistant-Director General for Culture: Ottone highlighted the frequent incarcerations of artists for their work, a situation that often goes unnoticed by the media. He discussed UNESCO's development of methodologies to protect artists’ right to freedom of expression and the development of a global report to analyze and address gaps in knowledge and protection.

integrated approach to environmental protection

Antonio Abreu, UNESCO Director for Natural Science Sector: Abreu emphasized the need for a multi-disciplinary approach to resilience and sustainable development, using tools like UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserves. He pointed out the communication issues that hinder the recognition and benefit of these reserves and called for smarter communication strategies to enhance the impact of conservation efforts.

Conclusion

The high-level panel underscored the critical roles of journalists, scientists and artists in tackling the planetary crisis. The discussions highlighted the urgent need for new safeguards to protect these professionals and the importance of communication to amplify their essential work. The commitment to defending their freedom is vital for ensuring accurate information, scientific integrity, and cultural expression in the face of global challenges.

key takeaways from the expert panel on the governance of nature

This panel highlighted the critical role of UNESCO’s Biosphere Reserves in addressing environmental challenges and emphasized the importance of journalists, scientists, and artists in this effort. Panellists discussed the assets and challenges of managing these reserves, underscoring the need for sustainable governance and community engagement.

Serena Heckler, UNESCO Regional Ecological and Earth Sciences Programme Specialist

Heckler focused on the multifunctional role of UNESCO’s 748 Biosphere Reserves, which are not just conservation areas but also hubs for sustainable development and knowledge production. She emphasized the vital contributions of scientists, artists, and journalists in managing these reserves and highlighted the serious threats they face, including violence and harassment. Heckler shared insights from a study (2020-2022) on violence against environmental defenders in Latin American Biosphere Reserves, revealing that harassment and violence severely impact the management and sustainability of these areas. To counter these threats, UNESCO proposes a four-point strategy:

Improved Monitoring

Enhance documentation of threats and violence against stakeholders.

Capacity Building

Train Biosphere Reserve managers and stakeholders in self-care and security.

Judicial Support

Strengthen judicial processes to reduce impunity for crimes against environmental defenders.

Advocacy

Promote peace and good governance through education and advocacy initiatives.

Fabien Bourlon Chaboud, Center for Research in Ecosystems of Patagonia, Chile

Bourlon Chaboud discussed the challenges and successes in the Laguna San Rafael Biosphere Reserve in Chile. He emphasized the need for community empowerment and mutual understanding to protect the reserve. Bourlon Chaboud highlighted the importance of participative science and education, noting that scientific information must be relevant and meaningful to the community. He stressed the need for collaboration between scientists, artists, and journalists to create spaces for dialogue and develop solutions together, stressing that “science needs emotions”.

Key Points

Multifunctional Role of Biosphere Reserves

These reserves are crucial for conservation, sustainable development, and knowledge production. Effective management requires the involvement of scientists, artists, and journalists.

Violence and Harassment

Environmental defenders face significant threats, including violence and legal harassment, which hinder the effective management of Biosphere Reserves.

Community Engagement

Successful governance of Biosphere Reserves relies on empowering local communities and fostering a sense of connection to the land.

Collaborative Efforts

Integrating the work of scientists, artists, and journalists is essential to address environmental challenges and promote sustainable development.

conclusion

The panel highlighted the importance of protecting the critical roles of journalists, scientists, and artists in the governance of nature. it called for enhanced protection measures, community engagement, and collaborative efforts to ensure the sustainability and success of UNESCO's Biosphere Reserves. The discussions underscored the urgent need to confront violence against environmental defenders and to support those dedicated to preserving our planet.

key takeaways from the panel on science and scientific researchers

The panel on Science and Scientific Researchers highlighted the critical role of scientists in advancing social progress and addressing planetary crises, while also addressing the threats and harassment faced by these professionals. Panellists discussed UNESCO’s efforts to protect scientists and ensure the continuity and integrity of their research.

gustavo merino, UNESCO Director for social policies

Merino introduced UNESCO's recently released report on the safety of scientific researchers, co-authored with Janneke Gerards, which addresses the diverse threats faced by scientists. Key points included:

Harassment and Violence

Approximately 50% of women scientists have experienced sexual harassment, and 40% of climate scientists have faced harassment, with 22% receiving violent threats after media appearances. During the COVID-19 pandemic, there were over 400 documented attacks on higher education institutions.

UNESCO’s Programme on the Freedom and Safety of Scientists

UNESCO's new programme on the freedom and safety of scientists includes five components:

Direct Engagement with Member States

Collaboration directly with governments.

Data Collection and Monitoring

Producing periodic reports to inform public policy.

Field Work Focus

Emphasizing efforts in Latin America.

Advocacy

Raising awareness through events and informing the public.

Fundraising

Securing funds to support recommendations and initiatives.

Call to Action

A new initiative ‘Call to Action’ has received support from 66 countries and provides a comprehensive framework for collective action with the aim of improving the safety and freedom of scientific researchers.

Janneke Gerards, Professor of Fundamental Rights Law, Utrecht University

Gerards provided an in-depth analysis of the types and sources of threats faced by scientific researchers, based on her co-authored report with UNESCO. Key points included:

Types of Threats

Bodily Integrity

Physical harm or deprivation of liberty.

Material Damage

Destruction of research facilities or intellectual property.

Psychological Harm

Fear and a general sense of unsafety, which can impede research freedom.

Sources of Threats

External Threats

Government intervention, private actors, citizens, and armed groups.

Internal Threats

Dismissal and loss of career opportunities within institutions.

Vulnerability Factors

Emergency situations, sensitive research topics, minority status, and early-career researchers increase vulnerability.

Policy Recommendations

The typology of threats helps in tailoring specific policy measures to address particular risks or groups, enhancing the protection of researchers.

Key Points

Threats to scientists

Scientists, especially those working on sensitive topics or from minority groups, face significant risks, including physical violence, harassment, and career threats.

UNESCO’s Response

UNESCO’s new safety programme aims to protect scientists through direct government engagement, data-driven policy, fieldwork, advocacy, education, and fundraising.

Importance of Safety

Ensuring the safety of scientists is crucial for the continuity of critical research and the advancement of knowledge needed to address global crises.

Conclusion

The panel underscored the urgent need to protect scientific researchers from various threats to ensure the progress of vital research. By implementing comprehensive safety measures and fostering collaboration among governments, institutions, and stakeholders, UNESCO aims to create a safer environment for scientists to continue their essentiel work.

Key takeaways from the panel on media and journalists

This panel discussed the critical role that journalists play in combating misinformation and disinformation, and the threats they face, especially in times of planetary crises. Panellists discussed UNESCO's initiatives to protect journalists and highlighted the challenges faced by environmental journalists, particularly in conflict zones.

Sylvie Coudray, UNESCO Director for Freedom of Expression, Media Development and Media Information Literacy

Coudray outlined UNESCO’s multi-faceted approach to support and protect journalists. Key points included:

UN Plan of Action

A multi-stakeholder initiative co-led by UNESCO, the UN Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), and other UN agencies. It focuses on:

Prevention

Advocacy campaigns, reports, and educational initiatives.

Protection

Creating safe spaces for journalists in conflict zones like Ukraine, Pakistan, Sudan, Nairobi, and Costa Rica.

Prosecution

Monitoring the judicial process concerning the killings of journalists and supporting legal mechanisms to combat impunity.

Capacity Building

Developing national mechanisms for the safety of journalists.

Media and Information Literacy Programme

Enhancing critical thinking and competencies to combat disinformation, with a new focus on AI.

Digital Platform Governance

Providing guidelines on how to implement effective governance on digital platforms to curb mis- and disinformation, while protecting the right to freedom of expression.

Viktoriia Hubareva, Ukrainian Environmental Journalist

Hubareva provided a poignant account of the challenges faced by journalists in Ukraine, particularly due to the ongoing war. Key points included:

Direct Threats from War

Journalists face significant risks from military actions, including being targeted by Russian forces. The war diverts resources and attention from environmental issues.

Harassment

Ukrainian environmental journalists are facing harassment, including the unauthorized distribution of personal information to discredit them.

Restricted Access

Access to biosphere reserves and critical environmental areas has been severely restricted. For example, the Danube Delta Biosphere Reserve is inaccessible.

Innovative Solutions

Despite these challenges, Hubareva highlighted the innovative use of technology to gather information:

Remote Data Collection

Utilizing NASA instruments, satellite images, and online maps to monitor environmental conditions.

Collaboration with Scientists

Emphasizing the importance of networks between journalists and scientific communities to obtain accurate information and foster informed reporting.

Key Points

Combatting Disinformation

UNESCO is actively working to support journalists through advocacy, education, capacity building, and promoting safe digital practices.

Challenges in Conflict Zones

Journalists in war zones like Ukraine face unique threats, including direct violence, harassment, and restricted access to crucial information.

Importance of Collaboration

Effective environmental journalism often relies on collaboration with scientific communities and the innovative use of technology to circumvent barriers.

conclusion

The panel underscored the vital role of journalists in ensuring the free flow of information and combatting mis- and disinformation. By addressing the threats, they face and supporting their work through comprehensive programs, UNESCO aims to uphold the freedom of expression and the safety of journalists worldwide. The experiences shared by Ukrainian journalist highlight the resilience and innovation required to report on environmental issues in conflict zones.

key takeaway from the panel on cultural expression and artists

This panel explored the essential role of artists in addressing planetary crises, emphasizing their contributions to raising awareness, fostering connections with nature, and combating misinformation. The panellists discussed the challenges that artists face, including threats to their safety, and highlighted UNESCO's initiatives to support and protect artistic freedom.

Rosario Soraide, UNESCO Project Officer

Soraide discussed UNESCO's commitment to supporting artistic freedom and fostering collaboration among artists, scientists, and journalists. Key points included:

Support for Artistic Freedom

UNESCO's report “Defending Creative Voices: Artists in Emergencies” outlines strategies to protect artists, drawing parallels with the safety of journalists.

Media as Allies

Media can amplify the voices of artists and scientists, raising awareness about human rights violations and environmental issues.

Challenges of Mis- and Disinformation

Media literacy is crucial to combat disinformation and promote independent journalism that provides fair and accurate coverage.

Solidarity Among Professions

Promoting solidarity and collaboration among artists, journalists, and scientists is essential for addressing shared challenges and threats.

Legal and Institutional Support

UNESCO collaborates with various stakeholders, including legal experts and international organizations, to address legal challenges faced by artists, such as Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPS).

International Coordination

UNESCO's mechanisms, such as the 2005 Convention for the Protection and Promotion of the Diversity of Cultural Expressions, support artists' rights and monitor their safety.

Thiago Jesus, Senior Project Manager, Indigenous Exchange & Climate Action at People’s Palace Projects

Jesus highlighted the profound connection between artists and the environment, sharing insights on how art can drive social and environmental change. Key points included:

Connecting with Nature

Introducing oneself as part of a biome emphasizes the deep connection between humans and nature, fostering a sense of responsibility for environmental conservation.

Role of Art in Climate Justice

Art has the power to communicate complex issues, evoke emotions, and inspire behavioural change. It can challenge misinformation, promote inclusivity, and prototype innovative ideas.

Storytelling and Truth-Telling

Artists can shine a light on marginalized voices and tell stories that might otherwise remain untold, fostering a broader understanding of climate justice.

Participatory Nature of Art

Art encourages knowledge exchange, inclusivity, and diversity, building bridges between different disciplines and ways of thinking.

Catalyst for Change

Art can mobilize individuals and communities, serving as a powerful tool against mis- and disinformation and polarization.

Challenges for Artists

Despite their vital role, artists, especially those on the frontlines of environmental activism, face significant threats to their safety. Protecting these artists is crucial.

Key Points

Combatting Mis- and Disinformation

Artists play a critical role in countering mis- and disinformation through creative expression and storytelling, which can reach and resonate with diverse audiences.

Challenges and Risks

Artists, particularly those involved in environmental activism, face significant threats, including harassment and violence. Ensuring their safety and supporting their work is essential.

Solidarity and Collaboration

Building strong networks and collaborations among artists, journalists, and scientists is vital for amplifying their impact and addressing shared challenges.

UNESCO’s Role

UNESCO provides comprehensive support to artists through advocacy, legal assistance, and international coordination, promoting artistic freedom and protecting artists' rights.

conclusion

The panel highlighted the indispensable role of artists in addressing planetary crisis and the urgent need to protect their safety and freedom. By fostering collaboration, combating mis- and disinformation, and promoting artistic expression, UNESCO aims to empower artists to continue their vital work in raising awareness and inspiring change. The experiences shared by the panelists underscore the resilience and creativity of artists in the face of significant challenges, emphasizing the importance of supporting and safeguarding their contributions to society.

key takeaways from the interactive panelist exchange

Enhancing Protection and Collaboration among Journalists, Scientists, and Artists in Biosphere Reserves, the interactive panellist exchange highlighted the critical need for enhancing protection, access to information, and countering mis- and disinformation for professionals working in biosphere reserves. This discussion emphasized the importance of integrated efforts among journalists, scientists, and artists to advocate for conservation and sustainable development within these reserves.

Viktoriia Hubareva, Ukrainian Environmental Journalist

Networking and Platforms

Hubareva emphasized the importance of creating a common platform for journalists, scientists, and artists to share information and collaborate. This platform would facilitate requests for information and provide support among environmental defenders.

Simplified Information Sharing

She suggested that biosphere reserves should disseminate information in a clear and accessible manner, to ensure broader understanding and engagement.

Serena Heckler, Regional Ecological and Earth Sciences Programme Specialist, UNESCO

Zones of Biosphere Reserves

Heckler described the three zones within biosphere reserves core, buffer, and transition zones and the differing levels of information available for each.

Core Zone

Primarily dedicated to conservation, with data provided by management authorities.

Buffer Zone

Focused on research, education, and economic development, often lacking sufficient data.

Transition Zone

Involving local communities and industries, with almost no available data.

Integrated Management

Emphasized the need for socio-ecological monitoring systems that integrate data from all zones and the crucial role of artists in translating complex information into compelling narratives.

Advocacy and Human Well-Being

Highlighted the interconnectedness of human well-being and biosphere reserve health, advocating for inclusive and comprehensive monitoring systems.

Antonio Abreu, UNESCO Director, Natural Science Sector

Communication as a Priority

Abreu shared an experience of appointing a journalist to coordinate a biosphere reserve, underscoring the importance of communication in engaging communities and fostering understanding.

Biosphere Reserve Hour

Introduced a radio program that became a key tool in educating and involving the local community, demonstrating the power of media in promoting biosphere reserve initiatives.

Interdisciplinary Approaches

Stressed the need for interdisciplinary and multidisciplinary practices in biosphere reserve management, involving various stakeholders to ensure comprehensive governance and development.

Thiago Jesus, Senior Project Manager, Indigenous Exchange & Climate Action at People’s Palace Projects

Holistic Perspectives

Jesus advocated for viewing activists, journalists, artists, and scientists from a holistic perspective, recognizing the diverse roles indigenous communities play in knowledge production.

Empowering Indigenous Knowledge

Highlighted the importance of empowering indigenous communities by valuing their knowledge systems and integrating their perspectives into broader environmental management strategies.

Capacity Building

Emphasized capacity building and reframing traditional roles to better support indigenous communities as key allies in addressing the planetary crisis.

Key Points

Common Platforms

Establishing platforms for information sharing and collaboration among journalists, scientists, and artists is crucial for effective environmental advocacy.

Clear Communication

Simplifying and clearly presenting information from biosphere reserves can enhance public understanding and engagement.

Integrated Monitoring

Developing comprehensive socio-ecological monitoring systems that include all zones of biosphere reserves is essential for effective management.

Interdisciplinary Collaboration

Encouraging interdisciplinary approaches and involving diverse stakeholders can strengthen governance and development efforts.

Empowering Indigenous Communities

Recognizing and integrating the knowledge systems of indigenous communities can enhance environmental management and conservation efforts.

conclusion

The panel underscored the necessity of protecting and supporting the interconnected roles of journalists, scientists and artists in Biosphere Reserves. Through enhanced communication, integrated monitoring, and interdisciplinary collaboration, these professionals can effectively advocate for conservation and sustainable development. Recognizing and empowering the knowledge and contributions of indigenous communities further strengthens these efforts, fostering a holistic approach to addressing the planetary crisis.

insights from keynote listeners

Mads Randbøll Wolff, Danish Representative Member of UNESCO Man and Biosphere Council

Focus on Local Solutions

Emphasized the importance of addressing challenges at the local level and implementing multi-level governance systems to align actions across different levels of governance.

Empowerment through Arts

Highlighted the transformative role of arts in challenging mental positions, creating and changing culture, and defending the rights of artists, scientists, and journalists.

Call for New Environmental Ethics

Urged the development of a new form of environmental ethics centred on living with biodiversity rather than isolating it, highlighting the need for holistic approaches to planetary challenges.

Mogens Blicher Bjerregård, President of the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom

Importance of Collaboration

Stressed the need for increased collaboration between journalists, scientists, and artists, advocating for common platforms and mutual support among the professions.

Need for Monitoring and Data

Addressed the importance of improved monitoring mechanisms and data collection on safety issues faced by professionals in all three sectors.

Concrete Solutions

Presented practical solutions, such as implementing monitoring systems for the safety of scientists and developing indicators for academic freedom, to address safety concerns.

Strengthening Networks

Advocated for strengthening networks and organizations within each profession, including robust unions and associations, to enhance collaboration and communication.

conclusion

The Keynote Listeners highlighted the critical importance of collaboration and holistic approaches in addressing challenges faced by journalists, scientists and artists in times of planetary crisis. Their insights underscored the need for localized solutions, new ethical frameworks, improved monitoring mechanisms, and strengthening networks to empower professionals and drive meaningful change.

The insights gathered from this discussion will be instrumental in shaping an ongoing Desk Study titled "Critical Voices II – Critical Roles in Times of Planetary Crisis." Scheduled for publication in early 2025, this report will delve deeper into the roles played by biosphere reserves together with journalists, scientists, and artists during times of triple planetary crisis. We invite you to join the conversation and reach out to us if you are interested in participating in this important initiative!