This study presents an overview and analysis of the continuing debate in the United Nations system on freedom of the press and the distribution of information. The three main chapters deal with sequences within that history. The first chapter discusses the debate on Freedom of Information which was pursued, particularly at the United Nations, in the years after World War II; it is based partly on source material collected at that time and documents a little known period of this information debate. The second chapter summarizes the theme of Unesco's work in the field, particularly in the 1970s; its context is the emerging discussion of a new world information and communication order. Finally, the report traces the development of the International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC), from its origin to the present day. It is concluded that the most demanding challenge for media policies in democratic countries is providing for a media structure that will ensure the freedom of journalists in relation to both government censorship and the dictatorship of profit. (JB)