Who Defends the Truth?

At my school, I was given the opportunity to prepare and deliver a speech in English about a topic of my choice. I decided to talk about the career I dream of pursuing in the future: journalism.

I also wanted to share it here on The13thPage, so I could document this final public speaking presentation and, in a way, preserve a small piece of this chapter of my life and one of the dreams I am building for my future.

Have you ever wondered what happens when the truth has no one left to defend it?

Whenever I tell people that my dream is to become a journalist, I often hear the same question:

"Why journalism?"

Many people believe that journalism has lost its relevance in today's world. But I couldn't disagree more.

Journalism is far more than a profession. It is a responsibility.

Its purpose is to deliver accurate information, amplify people's voices, and help society understand what is happening around them. It requires human judgment, ethical responsibility, and accountability, qualities that are essential when informing the public.

Journalism is not simply a form of communication; it is one of the most powerful tools for holding those in power accountable. It allows citizens to hear different perspectives, understand complex issues, and make informed decisions. In this way, journalism plays a fundamental role in democracy.

When the press is restricted—whether through newspapers, television, digital media, or other platforms—people lose access to reliable information. As a result, society becomes more vulnerable to manipulation, misinformation, and abuse of power.

On World Press Freedom Day, celebrated every May 3rd, the United Nations shared a phrase that has stayed with me: "All freedom depends on press freedom." Those words remind us that limiting what journalists can report is often the first step toward limiting what citizens are allowed to say. Just because we enjoy freedom of expression today does not mean it will always be guaranteed tomorrow.

Countries such as China, Russia, and Venezuela demonstrate how restrictions on the press can have serious consequences. In these places, journalists often face censorship, intimidation, imprisonment, and sometimes even violence simply for doing their jobs. However, these situations rarely begin overnight. They often start with small restrictions, limited access to information, and attempts to discredit journalists who ask difficult questions.

Costa Rica serves as an important reminder of why we should never take press freedom for granted. According to Reporters Without Borders, the country fell from 5th place in the world for press freedom in 2021 to 38th place in 2026. If a country once recognized as one of the world's strongest examples of press freedom can lose ground, then none of us should assume our freedoms are permanent.

Protecting journalism is not only about protecting a profession. It is about protecting every person's right to know the truth.

So, despite all the challenges that come with being a journalist, is it worth pursuing this career?

Absolutely.

At a time when misinformation spreads faster than ever and democratic values face increasing challenges, society needs people who are willing to seek the truth, ask difficult questions, and give a voice to those who are not heard.

So, despite every challenge, I still dream of becoming a journalist.

Because some stories deserve to be told, some questions deserve to be asked, and some truths deserve to be heard.

And as long as the truth matters, journalism will matter too.

A photo of my beautiful Costa Rica.