UNESCO is the only United Nations agency with a mandate to defend the basic human right of freedom of expression and press freedom, which are the essential components of democracy.
According to its Constitution, the Organization is requested to “collaborate in the work of advancing the mutual knowledge and understanding of peoples, through all means of mass communication and […] to promote the free flow of ideas by word and image.”
To this end, the Communication and Information Sector promotes media development, original content, media pluralism and freedom of and access to information.
UNESCO also dialogues with journalists and media professionals through the Bureau of Public Information and informs the public through various Media Services, which include press releases and media advisories.
The Organization also works with all stakeholders towards the implementation of the outcomes of World Summit on the Information Society (WSIS).