(VOVworld) – The UN on Sunday observed the first International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists.

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon  (Photo: en.mehrnews.com)

UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon sent a message to UN members and media affirming that a free and open press is the bedrock of democracy and development. Mr. Ban said that approving a UN Action Plan creates a safer environment for journalists and media workers everywhere. Under the plan, no journalist would be the target of violence. The UN Secretary General called on all people to protect journalists, saying it is essential in order to protect justice.