Acceptance Speech for the Golden Pen of Freedom Award by Carlos F. Chamorro

In a powerful speech delivered in Copenhagen, Carlos F. Chamorro, a Nicaraguan journalist in exile, highlighted the critical role of media in exile as the last reserve of freedom under dictatorship. Chamorro, who received the Golden Pen of Freedom 2024 award from the World Association of News Publishers, dedicated the honor to his colleagues at Confidencial and other independent media outlets in Nicaragua who continue to resist censorship and persecution.

Chamorro recounted the harrowing experiences faced by journalists in Nicaragua, including imprisonment, exile, and the stripping of nationality by the oppressive regime of Daniel Ortega. He emphasized the importance of journalism in exposing corruption, human rights violations, and state crimes, despite the risks and challenges.

The journalist described the brutal crackdown on dissent in Nicaragua, which has led to a severe human rights crisis and the silencing of independent voices. He highlighted the role of media in exile in keeping the flame of freedom alive and documenting the truth for future accountability.

Chamorro outlined the challenges faced by journalists in exile, including security concerns, verification of sources, innovation in digital platforms, collaboration with international press, and financial sustainability. He called for continued support for independent journalism in exile as a democratic imperative.

As Chamorro concluded his speech, he echoed the words of his father, Pedro Joaquín Chamorro, a journalist assassinated by a previous dictatorship, stating that Nicaragua will be a Republic again when freedom is restored. The journalist’s message resonated with the audience, emphasizing the resilience and determination of media in exile to uphold freedom of the press as a fundamental pillar of democracy.