IMPORTANCE OF JOURNALISM AND FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION IN THE CONTEXT OF CURRENT GLOBAL ENVIRONMENTAL CRISIS Introduction T HE world faces numerous political and socio-economic challenges, with the environmental crisis standing as one of humanity’s most formidable obstacles for decades. In Southern Africa, extreme weather events related to climate change adversely affect the environment, economies, and people’s livelihoods, exacerbating pre-existing vulnerabilities in the region. Environmental issues — such as global warming, climate change, drought, food insecurity, and water scarcity — continue to expand, underscoring the critical need for immediate action. As environmental concerns escalate, the necessity for a well-informed public becomes more urgent. A variety of entities, including academic institutions, government agencies, and nongovernmental organisations, shape public opinion on environmental matters. Nonetheless, news media and journalists rank among the most significant sources of environmental information. AUTHOR: Sarah Chiumbu On World Press Freedom Day, 3 May, it is imperative to acknowledge the essential role that journalists and the media play in providing information, ensuring accountability, advocating, and fostering dialogue to confront today’s complex climate change issues. An independent, pluralistic, and diverse media is vital in combating the effects of climate change. Journalists are key contributors to the pursuit of a sustainable society. This article narrows its focus to climate change within the vast domain of environmental crises, recognising its role as an aggravator of existing threats such as hunger, poverty, and ill STATE OF PRESS FREEDOM IN SOUTHERN AFRICA 2023 6