President Chen Shui-bian on January 28 presented the 2006 Asia Democracy & Human Rights Award to Reporters without Borders, and also made brief remarks during the awards ceremony.
President Chen said the award to the organization, also known as Reporters sans Frontieres, is in recognition of its work and achievements in promoting press freedom and freedom of speech throughout Asia. It also signifies that Taiwan is a pluralistic and tolerant democratic nation. Press freedom has been realized on Taiwan, said President Chen, further demonstrating Taiwan's determination to defend the principles of journalistic freedom and human rights.
President Chen said he believes that the Asia Democracy & Human Rights Award, which was established by the Taiwan Foundation for Democracy, helps to encourage organizations or individuals to promote peaceful means in achieving democracy or espousing human rights. He said the award plays a role in promoting democratic development in Asia and bolstering contributions to human rights by Asians. The president added that he hopes these initiatives will lead to democratization in China and will foster respect for the press and human rights.
With this year's award presented to Reporters without Borders, President Chen said he hopes this will highlight the power held by the media in the age of globalization, along with the responsibility of the media to influence social development, good governance among governments, the establishment of a civil society and the practice of transitional justice, as well as to serve as the best watchdog and catalyst for society.