Journalists from across the globe are celebrating World Press Freedom Day Monday. To commemorate the event, the Press Association of Jamaica (PAJ) had called on governments worldwide to remove the barriers to the free flow of information.

In a statement, the PAJ said that the free flow of information is a fundamental human right under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Right so the public can fully enjoy freedom of expressions.

"There are significant legal impediments to the free flow of information in Jamaica, particularly between the State and citizens. We use today's observation of World Press Freedom Day to call on Government to take steps to remove these obstacles," the statement added.

The press organization also called on its government to reform its "antiquated libel and defamation laws."

"We call on Parliamentary leaders to accelerate debate on the recommendations of the Small report as well as submissions by the media to the parliamentary committee reviewing the report," the PAJ said. "We urge our legislators to also repeal the Official Secrets Act, which runs counter to the Access to Information Act. The enactment of whistle-blower legislation must also be fast tracked to assist in uncovering corruption."

The group said the freedom of information should not have undue influence from even media owners. It wants to set a "firewall" between the boardroom and newsroom management.

The PAJ also extends its solidarity to fallen comrade who were victims of violence against the media as it condemned the killing of journalists around the world.

"Today we remember and honour our colleagues who have paid the ultimate price for our right to know," the PAJ said.