On 4 April, His Holiness Pope Francis addressed a panel of German journalists and public service broadcasters in the Vatican. During his address he emphasised the importance of dialogue, factual reporting, and the dignity of the human person.
The Bishop of Rome said: “dialogue generates understanding, opens up horizons, and it finds itself creating space for a free and open exchange of information, opinions and analysis.”
In terms of factual reporting, the Pope urged journalists to “ensure that there are facts instead of fake news, objectivity instead of rumours, precise research instead of approximate titles.”
Focusing on the dignity of the human person, Pope Francis said: “For some time now we have been witnessing a worrying evolution in the world: the challenge of the right to life, the advance of euthanasia, the denial of social equality, the lack of integration, the violation of human dignity and freedom of conscience.”
He continued: “public media has a responsibility to take a firm stand for the precious good of human freedom.”
In conclusion, the Pope encouraged journalists to promote good news stories that provide people with a sense of hope.
ENDS
