Alerts Sign-up
Communication holds divine significance and has the power to build communities, Pope Francis emphasized during a gathering of journalists and media professionals. Addressing participants at the Jubilee of the World of Communications in Vatican City, he highlighted the importance of authenticity in communication.
During his address, Pope Francis urged for the release of journalists unjustly imprisoned worldwide. According to Reporters Without Borders, more than 500 journalists were detained in 2024. "The freedom of journalists increases the freedom of us all," he wrote, appealing for their release during the Jubilee Year.
Pope Francis stressed that press freedom and thought must be defended along with the right to be informed. He warned against misinformation and its potential to blur truth from lies, leading to societal polarization.
Maria Ressa, CEO of Rappler and Nobel Peace Prize laureate, spoke about challenges facing journalism today. She referenced an MIT study showing that falsehoods spread rapidly on social media and emphasized that without facts and truth, trust is eroded.
Colum McCann also addressed attendees, highlighting storytelling's role in fostering shared humanity. He encouraged using storytelling as a means to bridge divides and foster understanding.
Both speakers received standing ovations for their contributions. The event underscored communication's role in nurturing hope and resilience amid global challenges.
