Christiane Amanpour Named ‘Goodwill Ambassador For Freedom Of Expression And Journalist Safety’
Christiane Amanpour is now an official Goodwill Ambassador for Freedom of Expression and Journalist Safety. The world-renowned journalist and CNN Chief International Correspondent received the honor from the United Nations Educational Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) April 29.
UNESCO’s Director-General, Irina Bokova, commended Christiane for “her efforts to promote free, independent, and pluralistic media, having the right to work free from the threat of violence, and contributing through this to peace, sustainability, poverty eradication, and human rights.”
Bokova added additional praise regarding Ms. Amanpour at a ceremony in Paris, France.
“In the most challenging situations, addressing the most demanding interlocutors, integrity and courage have always guided you, with the conviction that freedom of expression, media freedoms are essential for stronger societies, for healthier democracies, for peace and reconciliation as well as sustainable development. We need to defend these principles more than ever today, at a time when they are challenged across the world.”
UN News Centre published an excerpt of Ms. Amanpour’s acceptance speech where she notes the role of journalists as “pillars of reform, freedom, and democracy” whose task is to “strengthen civil society. We’re here to make the world a better place.”
Christiane Amanpour, considered one of the world’s leading news correspondents, has covered many dangerous, and devastating global events. Born in London, England, Christiane spent the early portion of her life in Tehran, Iran.
In 1979, her family fled from Iran when a revolution brought out and overthrew the Shah of Iran and his administration. A short time later, Christiane studied journalism at the University of Rhode Island and graduated summa cum laude with a bachelors’ degree in journalism.
Amanpour launched her career when she eventually found employment at the international assignment desk of CNN in 1981.
Christiane won numerous awards for her work, including four Peabody Awards, 11 News and Documentary Emmy Awards, three duPont Columbia Awards, the College in Journalism Award, and two George Polk Awards.
In addition, Amanpour is a member of UNESCO’s board of directors of the Committee to Protect Journalists. She was also named Commander in the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire. She has received nine honorary degrees, and earlier this year Ms. Amanpour was inducted in the Cable Hall of Fame.
Receiving this most recent honor of being named a UNESCO Goodwill Ambassador, Christiane Amanpour joins a group of personalities who use their talent and expertise to help in mobilizing support and public interest in communication, science, education, and culture.
Many people throughout the world thank Christiane Amanpour for her hard work and dedication, and offer congratulations for her richly deserved success!
[Featured image via CNN]
