Pope denounces attacks on press freedom in ‘so-called democratic’ countries

Pope Francis is denouncing attacks on press freedom in “so-called democratic” countries.

“The right to information is a right that must always be protected,” Pope Francis told Reuters in an interview last week.

The pope had been asked about two Reuters journalists jailed in Myanmar after being accused of possessing secret documents. 

“States that have something they don’t want to be seen, always stop the media and freedom of the press and we must fight for freedom of the press. We must fight,” the religious leader said. 

The pope said attacks on press freedom were sometimes made by “so-called democratic” governments.

“In some places, dictatorial governments under the guise of democracy continue to do these things,” said Pope Francis. 

“But right now the press can be very easily manipulated, very easily,” he added. “In some countries maybe things are going well, but there are many ways to silence the media.” 

The pope’s remarks comes after he released a statement in February condemning “fake news,” calling it a “sign of intolerant and hypersensitive attitudes” that “leads only to the spread of arrogance and hatred.”

Though the Vatican said the message was a part of the pope’s World Communications Day, some speculated the pope was subtly trying to send a message to President Trump and other leaders who have used the phrase “fake news” to criticize unfavorable coverage.