The Faculty of Social Science and Political Science, Diponegoro University together with the Press Council held a Talk Show “Freedom of the Press, Citizen Journalism and the Role of Social Media” on Wednesday (5/10) at FISIP Undip. The activity was moderated by Asmono Wikan (Member of the Press Council) with resource person M. Agung Dharmajaya (Vice Chairman of the Press Council), Dr. Nurul Hasfi, M.A. (Head of the Department of Communication Science FISIP Undip), Aris Mulyawan (Chairman of AJI Semarang City), and Shafigh Pahlevi L (Social Media Observer).
Asmono Wikan said that the activity was aimed at providing literacy to the public regarding freedom of the press, citizen journalism and the role of social media.
In his material, M. Agung Dharmajaya said that the philosophy of freedom of the press is a form of people’s sovereignty and is a very important element in creating a democratic society, nation and state. Thus freedom of expression of thoughts and opinions as stated in Article 28 of the 1945 Constitution must be guaranteed.
“In the life of a democratic society, nation and state, freedom to express thoughts and opinions according to one’s conscience and the right to obtain information is a very essential human right that is needed to uphold justice and truth, promote public welfare, and educate the nation’s life. The national press is a vehicle for mass communication and disseminator of information. The opinion makers must be able to carry out the principles, functions, rights, obligations and roles as well as possible based on professional freedom of the press so that they must get legal guarantees and protection, and are free from interference and coercion from any parties,” said Agung.
Dr. Nurul Hasfi conveyed the efforts that could be made to support citizen journalism, including ensuring the implementation of journalism ethics, recognition, and advocacy of citizen journalism work, and legal protection. (Lin – Public Relations)
