Freedom of the press helps it to play a watchdog role.
Freedom of the press is the right to publish news and opinions without government censorship or restraint. When the press is free to report without fear of censorship or reprisal, it can serve as a watchdog on government and other powerful institutions, holding them accountable for their actions and exposing wrongdoing. This is an essential function of a free press in a democratic society. Without freedom of the press, governments and other powerful entities would be free to operate without scrutiny, and the public would be left in the dark about important issues affecting their lives. Therefore, freedom of the press is a fundamental right that helps to ensure transparency and accountability in government and other institutions.