ST JOHN’S, Antigua - As the Antigua & Barbuda Media Congress (ABMC) observes World Press Freedom Day 2008, there is still much to be done before the country can see a free press. 

While recent years have seen an increase in media outlets and exchange of views and ideas on the airwaves and in print, free press can only be achieved if the media fraternity unites and adopts it as a long-term goal.

With this in mind, the ABMC will shortly announce a programme aimed at promoting a greater sense of fraternity and facilitating dialogue with key decision-makers in the country.  

The Congress is young organisation, but it remains committed to promoting professionalism among media workers in Antigua & Barbuda.  It is therefore important that all among the media profession join us in this cause and not just sit on the sidelines and observe.

Over the past year, a number of issues have been a cause for concern for the media fraternity. From the expulsion of two journalists to the announcement of broadcast legislation to deal with irresponsible media, there have been several threats to press freedom that cannot be ignored.

At this time, the ABMC joins with the Association of Caribbean Media Workers in encouraging all members of the local media fraternity to re-dedicate yourselves to the task of shaping our profession in a manner that best serves the interests of a region in social and economic transition, challenged by changing global circumstances, impaired by a colonial legacy but committed to building a better future.