World Press Freedom Day on 3 May highlights the importance of freedom of the press, and reminds governments to uphold their citizens’ right to freedom of expression enshrined under Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It’s also a chance for us to reflect on the damage caused to individuals when freedom of the press is denied.

So far China has failed to respect its promise of "free and unrestricted media access" in line with hosting the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games. Instead, Chinese authorities have intensified their crackdown on Chinese journalists, routinely blocked local and foreign media, and have put in place the tightest controls over the internet seen anywhere in the world.

This year we're raising awareness of China's system of online censorship, the Chinese individuals imprisoned for peacefully expressing their opinion online, and of the role that internet companies play in maintaining the system of repression.

With less than 100 days left until the Games begin, it's time for China to respect its commitments to uphold freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and to guarantee the right of all people to access information.

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