‘Press Freedom’ shouldn’t be a shaming word

According to the report from Reporters Without Borders (RSF), the environment for journalism is ‘bad’ in seven out of ten countries, and satisfactory in only three out of ten’. When reading these words, I feel very upset about the overall press freedom situation in the world. But what makes me more upset is my country, China, ranks second to last on the list.

Looking at the familiar Chinese red, I seldom feel non-proud of my country. Instead, I am very worried and started seriously considering the topic of ‘Press Freedom’.

When I was in primary school, I understood that the official could report fake news. On one day of the boiling summer, my teacher naturally sighed with emotion ‘The weather forecasting bureau must lie again, how can it be 37 degrees for today!’. And then she taught us ‘Because reporting over 40 degrees will cause panic to the public, the official always conceal the truth. But you should know that!’ At that time, my undoubted attitude to news from Chinese officials become shakable, and my perception appeared a crack, from which I gradually understand the perspective of government, and the function of news. Afterward, when I was admitted to Secondary school and university, I gradually cultivate my critical thinking ability. Moreover, thanks to Hong Kong, my information channels are not blocked by the ‘Wall’.

Nevertheless, today, looking at the horrible ranking and sharp drop of the press freedom index, I was struck that something is silently happening, and must cause alarm and attention! I should not ignore it and keep staying in my comfort zone.

Press freedom is essential for advancing social progress, which is a lesson from history. China already experienced a tragic period of speech and thought control. Nowadays, the Chinese government should pay more attention to the current situation. In addition to successful economic development, we should also develop a free speech environment, admitting a variety of voices to speak out. Instead of sole management from the government, the Chinese government also should give citizens more opportunities to get involved in current affairs and play their roles.

As a Chinese, I fully understand that China has its unique national conditions which may require the government to play a more strong role in governing a country compared to Western countries. However, that shouldn’t be an excuse for avoiding press freedom. As a developing country, the way of exploring democracy in the Chinese system should never stop. Especially facing the sharply falling press freedom index, the Chinese government should pay more effort. On the other side, Chinese conditions admit no delay in the protection of press freedom. The speech and information citizen rights of 1.4 billion citizens should be respected. And not only the government but also other industries in China need to be overseen by the public through the press. Women’s rights, poverty areas, food safety, etc. all deserve high attention.

Hopefully, one day, I will not see ‘China is one of the world’s largest prisons for journalists.’ The government could use its power to a suitable extent. The human right and press freedom of China will not be embarrassing words to be discussed.