Pope Leo on Sunday marked World Press Freedom Day by condemning persistent violations of media freedom ​around the world and paying tribute to journalists killed ‌while reporting from conflict zones.

Speaking at the end of his weekly Sunday prayer, in a sun-flooded Saint Peter's Square, the pontiff said ​the day highlighted both the importance of independent journalism ​and the growing threats faced by reporters.

"Today we celebrate ⁠World Press Freedom Day ... unfortunately, this right is often ​violated, sometimes in blatant ways, sometimes in more hidden forms," ​he said.

The pope urged the faithful to remember journalists and reporters who have lost their lives pursuing the truth, particularly in areas afflicted ​by conflicts.

"We remember the many journalists and reporters who have ​been victims of war and violence," the pope said.

World Press Freedom Day, ‌sponsored ⁠by U.N. cultural agency UNESCO and observed on May 3, is intended as a show of support for media organisations that come under pressure or censorship and an opportunity to ​commemorate journalists ​who have died ⁠in the line of duty.

In past speeches the leader of the Catholic Church has described journalism ​as a pillar of society and democracy ​with information ⁠being a public good that must be safeguarded and defended from manipulation.

He has often thanked reporters for sharing the truth, ⁠saying that ​doing their job could never be ​considered a crime, frequently calling for the release of journalists who have been ​unfairly detained or prosecuted.

- Reuters