TORONTO (ChatnewsTV) — The global news industry on Tuesday launched the “Choose Truth” campaign, uniting over 100 countries, hundreds of news organizations, and media associations to highlight the importance of fact-based journalism ahead of World News Day on September 28.
World News Day, co-organized by the World Editors Forum of WAN-IFRA and the Canadian Journalism Foundation (CJF), will celebrate the critical role of independent journalism in maintaining informed societies. This year’s campaign, “Choose Truth,” was developed by Project Kontinuum, an initiative led by Daily Maverick founder Branko Brkic.
“World News Day offers a moment to reflect on the vital role that independent and courageous journalists play in communities worldwide. Their work provides the evidence that leads to truth,” said David Walmsley, Editor-in-Chief of The Globe and Mail and founder of World News Day.
The campaign urges the public to support trusted news outlets, reinforcing the commitment of journalists to report facts amid growing misinformation and disinformation. In a joint article for World News Day, Brkic and Nobel laureate Maria Ressa wrote, “The noise and violence will eventually subside, and the discourse based on truth and decency will return. For now, we fight – every moment of every hour, of every day… We will defend Truth.”
Ladina Heimgartner, WAN-IFRA President and CEO of Ringier Media Switzerland, emphasized the responsibility of journalists in this critical time. “With ‘Choose Truth,’ we underscore our shared commitment to defend the principles of fact-based journalism. In a world overwhelmed by misinformation, the responsibility of journalists to provide accurate, reliable, and independent news has never been more critical.”
World News Day annually brings attention to the essential role journalism plays in safeguarding democracy, focusing this year on the enduring power of truth amidst challenging information environments.
By Gabriel Ani