REFORMASI-ID | LUSAKA, ZAMBIA – The World Peace Organization today expressed its warm support for the opening of the _Global Conference on World Press Freedom Day 2026_, convened by UNESCO and the Government of Zambia on May 4-5, 2026 in Lusaka.
Under the theme _“Shaping a Future at Peace”_, the conference unites governments, journalists, technologists, and civil society to strengthen a healthy information ecosystem for our shared future.
Dr. Bambang Herry Purnomo, S.H., M.H., President of the World Peace Organization*, stated:
_“In the age of AI and rapid information flow, journalism remains humanity’s compass. May 4 is a day for all of us to renew our commitment to information integrity. A free and responsible press is a partner in peace, helping societies make wise decisions together.”_
President Bambang Herry Purnomo* further emphasized:
_“Peace is Action means we choose collaboration over division. Truth, delivered with responsibility and courage, is the short path to peace. When governments, media, and citizens work hand-in-hand, trust grows and peace becomes sustainable. Peace is a Must.”_
As a concrete step at the national level, WPO collaborated with the Forum Wartawan Jaya Indonesia (FWJI) to commemorate World Press Freedom Day on May 2-3, 2026 in Muncar Visarua, Bogor, West Java.* The gathering focused on journalist capacity-building, digital literacy, and solidarity among media professionals, in harmony with the spirit of the Lusaka conference.
WPO highlights three shared priorities at the 2026 Lusaka conference:
1. *Safety through Partnership*: Journalist safety is a shared responsibility. WPO encourages dialogue and practical protocols so journalists can work with confidence and dignity.
2. *Sustainability through Innovation*: In facing AI-driven challenges, WPO supports collaboration between media and technology to strengthen fact-checking and public trust.
3. *Solidarity through Investment*: Strong local journalism serves the public good. WPO invites all stakeholders to support public-interest media as an investment in social cohesion.
On May 4, WPO also honors *International Firefighters' Day*. _“Firefighters and journalists both serve the public with courage. One protects lives from fire, the other protects societies with verified facts. Both are essential to community resilience,”_ *President Bambang Herry Purnomo* added.
*The World Peace Organization* remains committed to working with UNESCO, governments, and the global media community to nurture an information ecosystem that supports understanding, dialogue, and planetary peace.
Happy World Press Freedom Day 2026. To all journalists: WPO walks with you. (**)
