As Trinidad and Tobago reflects on the outcome of the April 28 general election, the Media Association of Trinidad and Tobago (MATT) joins the global community in observing World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2025.

This year’s observance carries added significance, as it takes place in the wake of a national election—an event in which the principles of free expression, access to information, and the right to a free and independent media are all critical. Democracy flourishes when citizens are informed and empowered— a situation only made possible by a press that is free to operate without fear or interference.

The theme of this year’s World Press Freedom Day, “A Press for the Planet: Journalism in the Face of the Environmental Crisis,” reminds us that the press is not only a defender of democracy, but also a guardian of our collective future. Whether reporting on the environment, governance, or telling people’s stories, journalists must be able to do their work freely and safely.

“MATT salutes the journalists and media workers of Trinidad and Tobago who covered the 2025 general election with professionalism, courage, dedication, resilience, and a commitment to truth,” said interim MATT President Dale Enoch. “Their efforts ensured that the people of Trinidad and Tobago had access to vital information needed to exercise their democratic rights.”

World Press Freedom Day offers an opportunity to reflect on the achievements and challenges facing media freedom. While we celebrate the vibrancy of our local press, MATT also remains concerned about issues that threaten journalistic independence and integrity, including political pressures, harassment of media workers, and barriers to accessing public information.

Traditional media also faces increasing challenges from the rapid spread of misinformation and disinformation on social media, which undermines public trust and complicates the work of professional journalists.

In the spirit of the day, MATT calls for renewed national commitment to upholding the tenets of press freedom. We emphasise the urgent need to strengthen protections for journalists, ensure transparency in governance, and support open dialogue between media practitioners, policymakers, and the public.

The association remains steadfast in its mission to defend the rights of journalists, advocate for high ethical standards, and foster trust between the media and the people of Trinidad and Tobago.