MONROVIA-As the journalism community in Liberia joins the world over in celebrating World Press Freedom Day, U.S. Embassy in Liberia has mentioned that the environment for the practice of journalism in the country is still not free.

In a statement issued, the US Embassy noted that independent media is an essential pillar of responsive and accountable democracies.

The Embassy pointed out that journalism plays a crucial role in combating corruption, drawing attention to human rights abuses, and providing the public with accurate information.

The statement indicated that freedom of expression remains under threat in many parts of the world as authoritarian regimes use intimidation of the media and internet shutdowns, among other tactics, to prevent criticism, accountability, and transparency.

The US Embassy Statement noted that Liberia’s media environment has never been freer, although economic difficulties cause some media houses to self-censor.

“As we celebrate the media’s essential contribution to Liberia’s democracy, we also remind journalists in Liberia and everywhere to stay true to ethics, Accurate, clear, and fair reporting that seeks to inform the public should be the standard. “Professional integrity is the cornerstone of a journalist’s credibility. “Without credibility, media cannot contribute to a healthy democracy but rather provoke distrust and the spread of misinformation” the statement added.