Islamabad, May 3, 2026: Reaffirming its longstanding commitment to freedom of expression and independent journalism, Sweden marked World Press Freedom Day by highlighting the vital role of a free press in strengthening democratic values and ensuring accountability.
Recognised globally as a strong advocate of press freedom, Sweden enshrined the principle in law as early as 1766 through the world’s first Freedom of the Press Act, setting a historic benchmark for democratic governance and media independence.
As part of Sweden’s continued engagement on human rights and democratic values, Sweden’s Ambassador for Human Rights, Democracy and the Rule of Law, Irina Schoulgin-Nyoni, recently visited Pakistan, where she held meetings with journalists and representatives of civil society.
According to Swedish officials, press freedom remains a cornerstone of democracy, playing a critical role in promoting transparency, accountability, and inclusive societies across the world.
