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On May 3, 2026, a book exhibition titled “May 3 – International Day of Freedom of Speech and Press” opened at the National Library of Azerbaijan.

The exhibition features literature in Azerbaijani and foreign languages on freedom of speech and information security, freedom of expression and the right to information, collections of documents on ensuring freedom of speech, thought, and the press, the media practices of leading countries around the world, the historical development of freedom of speech and thought, observance of ethical standards in the virtual world, and related topics.

May 3 – International Day of Freedom of Speech and Press is a special day highlighting the importance of freedom of expression and press freedom worldwide. The day was established by the United Nations in 1993 and is based on the Windhoek Declaration adopted in Windhoek in 1991.

Every year on May 3, conferences, seminars, and various events are organized in different countries around the world, reports on media freedom are presented, and the work of journalists is recognized. The day also serves as an important reminder that protecting freedom of expression is essential for every individual.

In Azerbaijan, there is a legal framework regulating freedom of speech and the press. The main legal document is the Constitution of the Republic of Azerbaijan. According to the Constitution, every citizen is guaranteed freedom of opinion, speech, and information, while censorship is prohibited.

In addition, several laws regulate this field, including the laws “On Mass Media,” “On Media,” and “On Access to Information”.