World Press Freedom Day honours sacrifices around the world made for freedom of the press and reminds governments of their duty to respect and uphold the right to freedom of expression, which is central to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. In 2005 alone, more than 500 publishers and journalists were arrested and jailed, because they were seen as a threat. Some may have reported on government corruption, the absence of political pluralism or human rights, others may have linked criminal activity to influential personalities. Ensuring media freedom is essential for every country on its road to sustainable development, peace and democracy.