The 2021 Nobel Peace Prize to two intrepid journalists is heartening news as it comes at a time of growing authoritarianism and swirling misinformation. Equally, it signifies strong support to journalists who face violence and threats in many countries for simply doing their job.
The Norwegian Nobel Committee recently announced the award to journalists Maria Ressa of the Philippines and Dmitry Muratov of Russia. The committee praised the duo for their long, courageous struggle for freedom of expression, calling them representative of “all journalists who stand up for this ideal in a world in which democracy and freedom of the press face increasingly adverse conditions.”
It may surprise some that the peace prize has gone to journalists. Indeed, it marked a rare, bright spot; but, this is not a first. Way back in 1935, German journalist Carl von Ossietzky won the prize “for his burning love for freedom of thought and expression” and exposing Germany’s secret rearmament after World War I.
In the past too, opinion has often been mixed on the peace prize winners, whether the recipients were deserving or not.
Journalism is one of the world’s oldest professions, it is also a risky profession especially in countries with authoritarian regimes. Russia and the Philippines figure among the top 10 most dangerous places for journalists.
Both Ressa and Muratov are fearless, long-time journalists with an excellent track record and who personify the values of freedom. Operating in terribly hostile environments, one in Russia under Vladimir Putin and the other in Philippines under Rodrigo Duterte, they have braved constant personal threats, defied censorship and have spoken truth to power.
Ressa, the chief executive of the Rappler news website has faced the wrath of the authorities in the Philippines for her investigative stories. At least 10 arrest warrants were issued for her in about two years even as she is fighting nine separate cases. Even at 58, she remains energetic as ever and a staunch advocate of press freedom.
Muratov, who co-founded Novaya Gazeta in 1993, is among the few bold, independent newspapers in Russia that has survived despite the Putin government’s sweeping crackdown on the media. Since its founding, six of its journalists have been killed. Muratov who continues to defend press freedom ran a series of hard-hitting stories over the years including those about the war in Chechnya, the conduct of the new class of government-linked billionaires and the torture of gay men in Russia.
While clearly the courage and commitment of Ressa and Muratov in championing free expression under repressive conditions has earned them the prize, journalists worldwide are certain to be inspired by the spirit and conviction of the duo. By speaking out without fear or favour, they instill confidence in others to speak out. As Salil Tripathi, member of PEN International Board said, “Speech, words and thoughts are the best weapons against tyrannical governments. The fall of such governments is a precondition for peace.
