Nobel Peace Prize awarded to journalists Maria Ressa, Dmitry Muratov

The Nobel Peace Prize was awarded to journalists Maria Ressa of the Philippines and Dmitry Muratov of Russia on Friday for their fight for freedom of expression in their respective countries.

"Free, independent and fact-based journalism serves to protect against abuse of power, lies and war propaganda. The Norwegian Nobel Committee is convinced that freedom of expression and freedom of information help to ensure an informed public," the Nobel Prize twitter handle posted.

The duo were honoured for their efforts 'to safeguard freedom of expression, which is a precondition for democracy and lasting peace,' the chairwoman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, Berit Reiss-Andersen, said.


"These rights are crucial prerequisites for democracy and protect against war and conflict. The award of the 2021 #NobelPeacePrize to Maria Ressa and Dmitry Muratov is intended to underscore the importance of protecting and defending these fundamental rights," the Twitter handle added.