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Vienna, Austria | 5 May 2025 — In a powerful observance of World Press Freedom Day 2025, the United Nations Correspondents Association Vienna (UNCAV), the European Network of Filipino Diaspora–Austria (ENFiD-Austria), and the Llubja Wielitsch Society gathered journalists, diplomats, youth advocates, and members of civil society at the United Nations Office in Vienna. This year’s event was held under the thought-provoking theme:
“Reporting in the Brave New World: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence on Press Freedom and the Media.”
The commemoration began with a minute of silence observed in memoriam: Journalists Who Gave Their Lives for the Truth, with special mention of Juan “Johnny” Dayang, a veteran journalist tragically killed in the Philippines on 29 April 2025. His name was solemnly honored as a reminder of the grave risks journalists face in the pursuit of truth.
UNCAV President ID Abdalla Sharief delivered the welcome remarks, followed by messages from UNCAV members shared by Secretary General Hermann Kroihe. Ms. Sonja Wintersberger read a message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, highlighting the increasing dangers journalists worldwide face, particularly environmental reporters. She emphasized the urgent need for collective global action to defend press freedom.
A highlight of the program was Dr. Alexander Alexandrov’s keynote address, “Neo-Feudalism: How It Is Fundamentally Threatening the Freedom of the Press.” His presentation delved into journalism’s structural and political challenges in today’s complex media environment.
Adding both insight and humor, Mr. John Herzog offered a heartfelt message punctuated by a lively demonstration involving two glasses of water—cleverly illustrating the importance of collaboration in realizing common advocacies and goals.
Sarah Jozelle Magistrado Rojas, representing the voice of Gen Z, delivered a dynamic presentation titled “Press Freedom vs. AI: A Gen Z Perspective.” She explored how artificial intelligence transforms journalism, addressing its potential to combat disinformation and the ethical dilemmas it raises. Her rousing call to action—“Our voice. Our power. Our press” resonated deeply with the audience.
Alessandra Inge Zhurkov followed with a presentation on “Freedom Means Everyone: Girls, Women, and Press Representation,” advocating for more inclusive narratives in media and journalism that reflect the diverse realities of women and girls.
The program concluded with a moving performance by Ms. Ruriko Nakano, leaving the audience inspired and reflective.
The commemoration served as a potent reminder that, amid rapid technological change, press freedom remains a cornerstone of democracy and human rights. The event called for unity, vigilance, and innovation to protect the voices speaking truth to power.
Photos ctto: Amir Siddique
- Marizel Rojas
Maria Zelda “Marizel” Rojas is a board member of the United Nations Correspondents Association Vienna (UNCAV), chairperson of the European Network of Filipino Diaspora-Austria (ENFiD-Austria), and a current ENFiD Adviser. She is also the 1st Vice President of the United Nations Women’s Guild (UNWG) and a Women’s Federation for World Peace (WFWP) member. Founding member and former president of the Philippine Austrian Cultural and Educational Society (PACES), adviser and former president of the Vienna International Centre Club Filipino (VIC CF), liaison for the Philippines and councillor in the European Police Association (EPA), and a member of the Filipina Women’s Network (FWN).
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