Freedom of the press is crucial to democracy, serving as a watchdog that holds power accountable and informs the public. A free press enables diverse viewpoints and encourages informed civic participation, ensuring citizens can make educated decisions. It fosters transparency by exposing corruption, highlighting social issues, and promoting dialogues about governance. The independence of media from political influence is essential for maintaining integrity and safeguarding civil liberties. Ultimately, a robust, free press strengthens democratic processes and contributes to more effective governance and policy formulation.