At Lomanthang International Media Summit, Minister Gurung warns of threats to democracy, press freedom 

KATHMANDU: Minister for Communications and Information Technology, Prithvi Subba Gurung, has stated that terrorism, anarchy, and autocracy pose serious threats to democracy and press freedom.

Speaking at the inaugural session of Lomanthang International Media Summit, organised by Nepal Press Union in Lalitpur on Saturday, Minister Gurung stressed the need to improve work practices to reinforce democracy and protect press freedom.

Recognising the significance of the summit, which aims to deliberate on democracy, press freedom, and the climate crisis, the minister underscored the importance of strong public opinion and a free press, adding that democracy is facing increasing challenges.

"When democracy weakens, press freedom wanes," Gurung said, emphasising the need to strengthen both. He highlighted the interrelationship between democracy and press freedom, urging responsible journalism to benefit society.

Gurung also expressed concern over the rise in misinformation and disinformation, particularly through online portals. He called for unified efforts to combat such issues and urged media organisations to stand together against attempts to destabilise democracy through misleading content on religious tolerance and cultural diversity shared on social media. The minister stressed the necessity of upholding the rule of law and promoting impartial journalism to safeguard democratic values.

He further pointed out that Lomanthang is bearing the brunt of climate change, making discussions at the summit even more relevant.

During the event, vice chairperson of the International Federation of Journalists, Sabina Indrajeet, stated that democracy cannot function without press freedom. Indrajeet noted that IFJ, representing over 150 countries, actively works to defend media freedom globally.

Acting chairperson of the Federation of Nepali Journalists, Deepak Acharya, stated that the climate crisis is a global concern, advocating for discussions on both press freedom and climate change together.

Meanwhile, former FNJ chairman, Harihar Birahi, argued that only a democratic system guarantees civic supremacy, allowing free media, civil society, and vibrant political participation to flourish.

South Asian Regional Trade Union Council’s general secretary, Laxman Basnet, acknowledged the Nepal Press Union’s role in advancing discussions on press freedom and climate change.

Additionally, senior vice chairman of NPU, Prem KC, general secretary Dilip Paudel, and media experts from India, Bangladesh, and Bhutan shared insights on press freedom challenges and climate concerns.

Following the inaugural session in Kathmandu, 120 journalists departed for Lomanthang via Pokhara on Saturday to continue discussions.