In Canada, the Charter of Rights and Freedoms protects the freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the Press. We must never forget the important role that freedom of the Press plays in supporting transparency, good governance and democracy. We should also remember what a powerful tool a free Press can be against organised crime and corruption. Democracy is impossible without freedom of the Press, for it is the basis of all democracies. Complex controversies cannot be solved without it, as questions must be aired.
Press freedom is one of the major building blocks in a democracy.
A free Press will sometimes make uncomfortable reading for any politician. But any passing embarrassment or justified indignation must never blind us to its vital role in both the health and protection of democracy. Those who wish to destroy democracy and its freedoms know this well. It is why their first act is often to muzzle the media. The people's right to know is a universal principle that secures democracy.