Jayapura – The commemoration of World Press Freedom Day (WPFD) 2026 in Papua raised the issues of journalist safety and economic inequality between press companies and digital platforms. These two issues emerged during the opening ceremony at the Lukmen Hall of the Papua Governor’s Office on Monday (May 4, 2026).
Papua Deputy Governor Aryoko Rumaropen stated that journalistic work in Papua still faces geographical challenges and security factors. The regional government, he said, is creating space to ensure the protection of the press.
“We recognize that the challenges faced by journalists in Papua are not trivial, including geographical conditions and security aspects. We are committed to supporting a safe journalistic workspace, free from intimidation, and upholding the protection of journalists,” he said.
He believes that the implementation of WPFD in Papua conveys the message that press freedom must be present even in the outermost regions. Amid the rapid flow of information, the role of the press remains essential to maintaining the quality of public information.
“The selection of Papua as the host country confirms that press freedom must be present throughout the country. The press plays a role in conveying information while maintaining the quality of democracy amidst the rapid flow of information,” said the Deputy Governor.
Meanwhile, Suprapto, Chair of the Publisher Rights Committee, raised the issue of inequality in the media ecosystem. He stated that press companies bear the costs of news production, but the economic profits flow largely to digital platforms.
“Press companies allocate significant resources to news production, but digital platforms actually reap the greater profits. Therefore, fairness needs to be realized in the relationship between press companies and digital platforms,” ​​he said.
