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Alerts - 2010 - July-September

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Afghanistan

Kapisa radio station director still held

Radio Kapisa FM director Hojatullah Mujadadi is still being held by the intelligence services in Kabul.

Nepal

Journalists attacked, publicly threatened in the city of Dharan

Journalists suspect the local police superintendent is behind a banner reading "Journalists: be aware, we will take action against you" that was put up in a major intersection.

Guatemala

Journalist robbed, threatened

After Marvin Del Cid Acevedo's apartment was robbed, the journalist says that he fears for his safety.

Liberia

Senator threatens to close community radio station

Senator Abel Manasaley reportedly threatened to close the radio station over an interview it aired.

Taiwan

Freedom House expresses concern over public television integrity

Freedom House urges authorities to safeguard the integrity of the country's public broadcaster following the removal of its leadership.

Ecuador

Cameraman's fingers broken during police operation

Nelson Ortiz Pizarra was injured when Mapasingue Oeste locals started to throw stones at the policemen, reporters and camera operators.

United Arab Emirates

CPJ calls on the UAE to end journalist's 13-month ordeal

Freelance journalist Mark Townsend was charged with criminal defamation in relation to postings that appeared on a consumer review website criticising the "Khaleej Times" newspaper.

Croatia

Journalists under siege after publishing articles on "Meat Affair"

Sergej Trajkovic and Tomislav Kukec published a series of articles about alleged expired meat sold on the consumer market.

Bahrain

BCHR concerned about "immense and rapid deterioration" in freedom of expression

A series of violations took place within a 24-hour period in a fierce attack aimed at silencing those who oppose government policies, says BCHR.

Cuba

Two more writers released, exiled to Spain

Librarian José Miguel Martínez Hernández arrived in Madrid on 24 September, while journalist Miguel Galván Gutiérrez arrived the following day.

Iraq

Journalist seriously injured in targeted bomb attack, several others assaulted

Alaa Mohsen was badly injured by a bomb placed underneath his car as he was about to leave his home in the Baghdad suburb of Saydiya.

Colombia

Radio station attacked in Villavicencio

Several unidentified individuals threw a grenade at the Olimpica Stereo building, which exploded on the balcony outside the station manager's office.

Niger

Newspaper publisher arrested and released

Moussa Aksar's arrest reportedly followed comments he made on France 24, a French broadcaster during a live discussion programme.

Montenegro

Vijesti Publishing Group journalists receive threatening letters

Zeljko Ivanovic, Slavoljub Scekic, Balsa Brkovic, Ljubisa Mitrovic and Milan Popovic received letters by post containing threats such as "It is over, you are next", according to IPI.

Brazil

Court in Tocantins overturns decision to censor 84 media outlets

A regional court had prohibited the publication of information on an investigation into irregularities in public acquisitions that mentioned the local governor.

Cameroon

Authorities maintain their position on newspaper editor's death in prison

Bibi Ngota died "as a result of infections linked to HIV, in a context in which his immune system completely collapsed," the report indicated.

Burma

Government censors political parties' election campaigns

The junta's electoral watchdog has refused permits for at least three political parties seeking to campaign on state-run radio and television, claiming the transcripts contained messages that could harm the state.

Iran

Journalist and "blogfather" receive heavy prison terms

Blogger Hossein Derakhshan was sentenced to 19 and a half years in prison, while journalist Issa Saharkhiz received a three-year prison sentence.

Malaysia

Cartoonist released on bail but goes into hiding

RSF is disturbed by the repressive nature of the sedition investigation that has been initiated against cartoonist Zunar.

Burma

Magazine's websites hacked

On a mirror site set up by "Irrawaddy", the magazine said the cyber attack coincides with the third anniversary of the "Saffron Revolution", the monk-led protest in Burma.

Uganda

Two photojournalists attacked in separate incidents

Two photojournalists working with different media houses were confronted and beaten up while on duty in Kampala.

Somalia

Al-Shabaab militants detain journalist

Mohamed Qani Hussein Kuusow was arrested by the militants after he filed a report about military movements in the town of Doolow.

Algeria

Two Moroccan journalists released after being held for four days

CPJ denounces Algeria's harassment of journalists Lahcen Tigbadar and Mohamed Slimani.

Sierra Leone

Radio station receives threats

Radio Democracy started receiving anonymous threats when it announced that it would resume broadcasting.

Tunisia

ANHRI condemns actions against opposition newspapers

A newspaper manager is facing charges of publishing false information, while ANHRI believes the security forces prevented the printing of an issue of another newspaper.

Turkey

Journalists could face prison after judges file complaint against them

Three journalists are being tried on charges of "identifying officials on anti-terror duties as targets for terrorist organisations" based on articles published in "Zaman" newspaper.

Philippines

Authorities arrest alleged gunman in radio broadcaster's shooting death

Leanardo Banaag is accused of shooting the gun that was used to kill radio broadcaster Jovelito Agustin and injure his nephew Joseph.

Zimbabwe

Mayor faces arrest in defamation case

Harare Mayor Muchadeyi Masunda and eight councillors stand accused of defaming businessman Philip Chiyangwa.

Egypt

Journalist sued for insult and libel by Saudi prince

The case against Ahmed Hosni is connected to his reporting on a communiqué about fraud that had been filed against the prince.

Palestine / Israel

MADA calls for solidarity with journalists after two are attacked and threatened

"The doctors say I have two broken ribs and bruises all over my body," said AP photographer Nasser Shyoukhi.

Egypt

Security forces arrest political activist

The authorities claim Abu al-Ezz al-Hariry was arrested for selling illegal textbooks in his bookstore, but others suspect his arrest is politically motivated.

Malaysia

Political cartoonist arrested hours before launch of new book

Police raided Zunar's office seized about 70 copies of the book, "Cartoon-o-phobia", as well as several cartoon drawings.

Egypt

Judge withdraws defamation action against human rights activists and blogger

ANHRI director Gamal Eid, Ahmed Seif El Islam Hamad of the HMLC and blogger Amr Gharbeia reached an out-of-court settlement with the judge who has been suing them for defamation.

Israel

Israeli security forces injure two journalists, briefly detain four others

Correspondents Diala Jwehan and Nader Baybres were struck by tear gas canisters while covering clashes between Israeli forces and Palestinian youths.

Ukraine

TV station decides to defy court ruling and continues to broadcast

TVi's chief executive said the station did not consider a decision to revoke amendments to its licence to be sufficient reason for termination of its broadcasts.

Thailand

Webmaster of independent news site arrested on charges of violating computer law

Chiranuch Premchaiporn had just arrived from Budapest, Hungary where she had attended "Internet Liberty 2010", a conference on free expression online.

Cambodia

Opposition leader sentenced to 10 years in prison

Opposition leader Sam Rainsy was sentenced to 10 years in prison on charges of spreading disinformation and falsifying maps.

Iran

Blogger held by Revolutionary Guards could face death penalty

RSF is concerned about serious human rights violations by the Revolutionary Guards against journalists and netizens held in Iranian prisons.

Turkey

Five children and pro-Kurdish party district chairman arrested for distributing leaflets

Ayhan Demirel and the five children were arrested as they were handing out leaflets for a campaign demanding education in the Kurdish language.

Thailand

Authorities still using emergency powers to suppress free expression and other rights, says Human Rights Watch

Five months after violent clashes between anti-government groups and state security authorities, the government has not put forward any justification for suspending certain human rights protections.

Turkey

Journalist, nine others face up to 13 years in prison

Mehmet Ali Birand, a producer for the Turkish television station Kanal D, is facing charges for "spreading propaganda for the PKK" after he signed his name to several letters.

Turkey

Writer's trial moved to higher court

The Istanbul 2nd Criminal Court of First Instance has decided to transfer the file of journalist Kemal Göktas to the special authority high criminal court, where murder suspects are often tried.

Tunisia

IFJ condemns police obstruction of demonstration for imprisoned journalist

Demonstrators were prevented from gathering outside the Gafsa prison where they had planned to show their support for Fahem Boukadous.

Lesotho

Cabinet delays implementation of media policy

The cabinet's actions represent another delay in 13 years of efforts to reform the outmoded legal framework governing journalism and broadcasting.

Afghanistan

Three journalists freed after President Karzai intervenes

"We are extremely relieved that these three arrests, which we had described as a serious mistake, have been resolved so quickly," RSF said.

Palestine

Journalist's home raided in Khanyounis

Journalist Nufouth Al-Bakri discovered that most of her media tools were stolen, while more valuable items had been left behind.

Kuwait

Thirty-five books banned from Kuwaiti Book Fair

The book fair administrators decided to ban the titles, claiming they were"contrary to the fair and state policies."

Ecuador

Television station manager murdered along with her husband

The local public prosecutor said several hypotheses about the crime are being analysed and the possibility of a relationship to the station manager's work has not been ruled out.

Afghanistan

Three journalists arrested over election coverage, contact with Taliban

Hojatullah Mujadadi was arrested by police, Rahmatullah Naikzad was arrested by members of the NATO-led and Mohammad Nadir was arrested by a joint ISAF-Afghanarmy unit.

Uganda

Five suspects arrested for journalist's murder

The Southern Buganda regional police spokesperson said they are still trying to locate other suspects in the killing of Top Radio reporter Paul Kiggundu.

Burma

Editors secure release of reporter detained over coverage of flooding

Aung Thu Nyein had been detained for two days for refusing to sign a pledge that he would stop taking photos of flood damage in Magway Division.

Ukraine

Journalist suffers savage beating in Donetsk

Artem Furmanyuk said he does not discount the possibility that the brutal assault was an act of provocation linked to his work.

Yemen

One journalist's detention extended, another released

Abdul Ilah Haydar Shae was arrested at his home as part of a brutal police roundup.

Iraq

Life sentence for militants who held two French journalists hostage in 2004

Two alleged Sunni militants were convicted of the abduction of Christian Chesnot and Georges Malbrunot and their Syrian guide, who were held hostage for 124 days.

Colombia

Journalist in Putumayo receives death threats

Freddy Enrique Narváez began receiving threats after the news programme he works for broadcast a story denouncing the former governor of Putumayo.

Ecuador

Journalist's bank account frozen on judge's orders

Freddy Aponte said that the legal actions against him are part of a campaign of "political persecution".

Uganda

Photojournalist evacuates family over threats by government officials

Journalist Tony Kizito says he has received threatening calls from public servants demanding he apologise to them or his "life will be doomed."

Philippines

Housing mogul threatens "Philippine Daily Inquirer" correspondent

A housing mogul threatened a Pampanga-based correspondent after she reported on his company's alleged illegal housing scheme.

Egypt

Human rights lawyer barred from entering country

Samir Jarrah, the MENA regional manager for Freedom House, was barred from entering Egypt because his organisation had rated Egypt as "not free" in its annual report.

Algeria

Polisario arrests rare dissenter in refugee camps

The Western Sahara movement is holding Mostapha Selma Sidi Mouloud for "espionage" after he backed Morocco’s autonomy plan for the region.

Turkey

Folk musician charged with "praising a criminal and criminal activities"

Pinar Sag is facing jail time for allegedly praising a leftist revolutionary and for criticising the killing of 17 people by security forces.

Bahrain

Crackdown on free expression results in blocking of political society's website

BCHR believes this censorship is a response to reports that Al-Wefaq publishes weekly about the human rights violations carried out by the regime.

Brazil

Media group prevented from publishing information about Senate candidate

The court of Mato Grosso prohibited the Gazeta Comunicação Group from publishing material deemed "negative" or indicating that a congressman and Senate candidate is in favor of abortion.

Algeria

IFJ demands freedom of movement for Moroccan journalists

Mohamed Slimani and Hassan Tigbadar have have been denied permission to leave their hotel in Tindouf, according to the IFJ.

Iran

Authorities convict two journalists; consider death penalty for blogger

Reporters Shiva Nazar Ahari and Emadeddin Baghi were each sentenced to six years in prison, while authorities are said to be considering the death penalty for blogger Hossein Derakhshan.

Iraq

Mounting tension between ruling parties and journalists in Iraqi Kurdistan

Editor Hemn Karim's detention for more than 24 hours and a spate of libel actions are the latest examples of the tense climate.

Argentina

Access to information bill advances in Congress

While the Senate has signalled unanimous support for an access to information bill, the lower house is simultaneously reviewing a separate bill on the right to information.

China

Strings attached to release of detained writer

Xie Chaoping was accused of illegal publication of a book for commercial sale.

Brazil

Police seize newspapers, detain journalist in Mato Grosso do Sul

The newspaper faces a US$28,000 fine per issue if it does not comply with an order to stop publishing negative reports about the local governor.

Moldova

Media organisations express concern over broadcasting council's decision on election ads

The Broadcasting Coordinating Council issued a public warning to Moldova 1 and Publika TV after they aired educational ads on the day of the constitutional referendum.

Turkey

ECHR orders Turkey to provide compensation to murdered journalist's family

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced that it would not file an appeal against the ECHR decision.

Ecuador

Journalists subjected to insults and harassment after publishing investigative book

The journalists published a book which includes an in-depth investigation about Fabricio Correa's contracts with the Ecuadorian government.

Europe and Central Asia

ECHR ruling bolsters media freedom, says ARTICLE 19

The recent court decision sets a high bar for disclosure of sources.

Nepal

Journalist severely beaten by unknown individual

Dinanath Baral, a reporter for "Radio Annapurna", was attacked while he was on the way to his office after reporting on a badminton association meeting.

Turkey

Appeals court upholds sentence against mayors

The mayors have been fined US$575 each for expressing support for a Kurdish satellite TV channel that broadcast from Denmark.

Burma

Journalist arrested for taking pictures of flooded areas

Aung Thu Nyein is being held in detention until he agrees to sign a pledge promising not to take any more photos.

Burma

Junta announces conditions for poll campaigning over state-run media

The UEC issued a notice granting "legal" parties the right to campaign on state-run radio and television, with 15 minutes allotted for each campaign speech by their chairmen or secretaries.

India

Strict curfew silences media in Kashmir

Several local publications and regional TV stations are paralysed because their personnel cannot leave their homes and several reporters have been beaten by police, according to RSF.

Pakistan

IFJ calls for prompt inquiry into murder of senior journalist

Militants are suspected of murdering the journalist as he had reportedly received death threats from armed groups for his independent reporting.

Chile / Aruba

IAPA condemns mistreatment of press in Chile; expresses concern over attack on journalist in Aruba

IAPA has condemned the violence unleashed against the press during street demonstrations marking the anniversary of the coup that overthrew the government of Salvador Allende.

Mexico

Journalist killed, colleague injured in gunfire attack

Luis Carlos Santiago Orozco was killed when he and his colleague were the target of a gunfire attack which left the second journalist in critical condition in hospital.

Somalia

Two radio stations taken over by militants

Al-Shabaab and Hizbul Islam extremists forcibly looted HornAfrik and Global Broadcasting Corporation, two independent radio stations.

Colombia / United Kingdom

Another journalist denied visa by western government

Claudia Julieta Duque has been hounded by her country's intelligence services for years.

Ghana

Prison officers storm radio station, assault staff

Officers entered the premises of privately-owned OTEC FM and assaulted two staff members.

Pakistan

Newspaper editor beaten up in Jacobabad

Abdul Rehman Afridi was beaten up allegedly for publishing news stories about mismanagement in the distribution of relief material among flood victims.

Brazil

Macapá TV station target of arson attack

According to TV Marco Zero, the attackers told the employees that journalists should not get involved in politics.

China

Printer of book about Sanmenxia Dam arrested

Zhao Shun printed "The Great Migration", a book by journalist Xie Chaoping that seems to have been the reason for Xie's recent arrest in Weinan.

Somalia

ARTICLE 19 calls for media law reform

Among the concerns, the media is also legally obliged to promote Islam and can be subject to sanctions for failure to do so.

Iraq

CPJ critical of findings of investigation into Kurdish journalist's murder

According to the investigation report, Sardasht Osman was killed by a member of Ansar al-Islam, an extremist group, for not carrying out work he had promised to do.

Ukraine

Journalist beaten after being refused entrance to press conference

After asking the local mayor a question, Dementiy Biliy "was pushed by two big guys" who started beating him.

China

Writer Liao Yiwu finally permitted to travel outside China

Liao had been invited to appear at literary events in Germany several times in recent years, but the government had always stepped in and prevented him from attending.

Botswana

Lawsuits against several newspapers withdrawn

The Bakgatla tribe chief withdrew the lawsuits in an out of court settlement.

Egypt

Stop arresting and abducting reform activists, says ANHRI

A number of activists have been arrested, abducted or legally pursued on fabricated charges while exercising their right to free expression.

Netherlands

IFJ welcomes verdict as ECHR backs Dutch battle over sources

"Auto Week" magazine had been compelled to hand over information about its sources to police despite journalists' objections to being forced to divulge the material.

Honduras

Journalist survives assassination attempt

On his morning radio programme, journalist Luis Galdámez has constantly expressed his opposition to the coup d'état that removed former president Manuel Zelaya from office.

Chile

Journalist who covers Mapuche conflict arrested

Marcelo Garay Vergara is accused of failing to respond to a court summons in relation to a year-old report about a land dispute in the Mapuche territory.

Turkey

Journalist receives death threat

Orhan Miroglu said he has previously received threats advising him to "come to his senses" and "think twice" when he demands equal rights for the Kurdish people.

Egypt

Blog shut down after promoting opposition candidate

The blog belonging to Amr Osama was shut down following a complaint by Gamal Mubarak, the president's son and aspiring presidential candidate.

Honduras

Army, police officers attack Radio Uno in San Pedro Sula

Hundreds of soldiers and police officers launched tear gas bombs at the building and attacked the staff.

Syria

Blogger held incommunicado for over eight months

Tal Mallouhi criticised Arab and Syrian international policy and the Union for the Mediterranean, a partnership between the EU and Mediterranean basin countries.

Kyrgyzstan

Human rights reporter sentenced to life in prison

Azimjon Askarov was pronounced guilty on a wide range of charges, including complicity to commit homicide and murder of a police officer.

Uganda

News anchor beaten to death with metal bar

Dickson Ssentongo had joined active politics and was an aspiring councilor for the Democratic Party, an opposition political party.

Pakistan

News agency editor's son kidnapped

Shakil Turabi believes that military intelligence agencies were involved in abducting his son, Hasan Sharjeel.

Pakistan

Journalist shot and killed

Misri Khan Orakzai, a senior journalist and president of the Hangu Union of Journalists, was shot and killed in front of the Hangu Press Club.

Madagascar

Radio Fahazavana personnel freed; another opposition radio station suspended

Ten Radio Fahazavana employees had been in pre-trial detention for several months and still face charges of "inciting a revolt".

France

Government allegedly violates law on confidentiality of sources

The government allegedly used a domestic intelligence agency to identify an official who leaked information about an investigation into a case involving the labour minister and L'Oréal heiress.

United States

Pentagon issues new rules for Guantanamo coverage

"The new ground rules represent a positive first step in a dialogue between the Pentagon and the media but we are concerned by the control that the military continues to exercise over reporting," says RSF.

Thailand

Authorities prevent launch of Vietnam human rights report in Bangkok

The authorities decided not to allow representatives of the Vietnam Committee on Human Rights to enter the country.

Swaziland

Journalist harassed, detained by police

Manqoba Nxumalo had his camera confiscated and was taken by police van to the Manzini police station, where he was briefly detained.

India / Kashmir (India)

Reporters' movements restricted, broadcaster shut down

Security forces did not allow journalists to move in the region's capital, Srinagar, during the area's curfew, even though they had passes issued by the government.

Algeria

Anti-corruption activist given six-month suspended sentence, fine

Djilali Hadjadj was arrested at the airport on 5 September as he was preparing to board a flight for France.

Indonesia

CPJ urges Indonesia to reverse "Playboy" editor's conviction

Erwin Arnada faces up to two years in jail after prosecutors said they would enforce a 2009 Supreme Court ruling that found him guilty of public indecency.

Bahrain

Information Affairs Authority bans audio reports on newspaper's website

The decision follows the recent broadcast of critical audio programmes which may have made the authorities uneasy.

Turkey

Court schedules trial in case of murdered journalist, organised crime links suspected

Journalist Cihan Hayirsevener received threats in connection with his articles on corruption prior to being shot in December 2009.

Venezuela

Television programme taken off the air, allegedly due to political pressure

Journalist Minna Vargas said political pressures were at play in the Telecentro television station's decision to take the programme she hosted off the air.

Turkey

Court dismisses lawsuit against journalist

Journalist Nurgun Balcioglu had previously been sentenced to pay compensation for criticising a statement made by a retired criminal court judge.

Venezuela

Journalist's contract revoked for political reasons

Rosa Virginia Garrido said she was dismissed because she had complained about the freedom of expression situation in the State of Yaracuy.

Mexico

IAPA concerned over rise in violence in Zacatecas state and its impact on the press

On August 18, individuals believed to be members of an organised crime group attempted to force executives of two newspapers to publish a report against the army.

Philippines

Radio station manager fired

Under Maximo Solis's management, Radio Mindanao Network-dxDC Davao took an uncompromising stance in support of press freedom.

Kosovo (Serbia)

Klan Kosova television journalist and cameraman attacked

The two media workers were filming at a school when they were attacked by the school's principal.

Sri Lanka

Printer company owner, employees arrested following printing of poster

Jayampathi Bulathsinhala and seven of his employees were arrested in connection with the printing of a poster regarding a constitutional amendment.

Uganda

Radio reporter beaten to death

Paul Kiggundu was severely beaten by a group of bikers while covering a story, and died before he could receive treatment.

Turkey

Lawyer on trial for comments on Kurdish question

Prosecutors have demanded that Siar Risvanoglu be sentenced on charges of "spreading propaganda for the PKK or the organisation's aims".

Lebanon

Authorities prevent screening of documentary in Beirut

The Lebanese General Security Department has barred screening of director Degaulle Eid's documentary Chou sar twice in less than one month.

Cuba

Another "Black Spring" journalist released

Víctor Rolando Arroyo Carmona was freed and flown to Madrid, bringing to 15 the number of editors and reporters released following talks between the government and the Catholic Church.

Belarus

Journalist found dead outside Minsk, CPJ calls for investigation

"Both the circumstances of (Aleh) Byabenin's death and the fact that his website carried criticism of the authorities warrant further investigation," says CPJ.

Israel

Activist convicted after unfair trial

Abdullah Abu Rahme was convicted on charges of organising and participating in illegal demonstrations and inciting protestors to damage the separation barrier, throw stones at Israeli soldiers, and participate in violent protests.

Israel

IFJ protests bar on union leader, calls on authorities to "Open Door to Dialogue"

Younes M'Jahed, is due to join a delegation of IFJ leaders but his application for permission to travel has been turned down by Israeli authorities.

Ghana

Radio journalist hospitalised following assault by ruling party supporters

Afriyea was gasping for breath, lying on one side and could only move his head at the time I visited him in hospital," the journalist's colleague said.

Vietnam

French blogger detained in Ho Chi Minh City

Pham Minh Hoang has been held incommunicado for allegedly violating article 79 of the criminal code, which refers to attempts to overthrow the government.

Venezuela

Governor of Barinas verbally attacks "La Prensa" newspaper

Governor Adán Chávez accused the daily of lying and distorting information.

Philippines

Damning testimony for Ampatuan clan at Maguindanao massacre trial

"That's easy, father. We kill all of them when they come here," Andal Ampatuan Jr allegedly told his father, the head of the Ampatuan clan.

Uganda

Politician assaults photojournalist

Arthur Kintu, a photojournalist with the government-owned newspaper "The New Vision", is the second journalist to fall victim to politician Hajji Hassan Basajjabala's brutality.

Nepal

Newspaper editor assaulted by youths

A group of youths vandalised the office of the daily "Gatishil" and attacked its editor after the newspaper published a story about a brawl.

Egypt

State security department prevents group from forming a registered association

The One Homeland for Development and Freedoms group was denied registration as an association based on a security department refusal to give its consent.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Journalist released after five months in prison

Jullson Eninga was acquitted and released unconditionally.

Nepal / India

Tensions between India's embassy and local media in Nepal

The IFJ urges all parties involved in the ongoing verbal exchanges to submit the entire range of issues to the adjudication of the Nepal Press Council.

Pakistan

British-Pakistani journalist held captive in Pakistan since March released

According to the British High Commission in the country, Asad Qureshi was released and is receiving consular assistance.

Zimbabwe

London-based exile radio station's broadcasts jammed in Harare

Various sources said they thought Zimbabwe's Central Intelligence Organisation (CIO) was responsible for the interference.

Ukraine

Newspaper lawyer alleges police planted drugs in his apartment

The police forced their way into lawyer Vyacheslav Ismaylov's apartment, claiming they were investigating a criminal case.

Angola

Radio presenter gunned down

Alberto Graves Chakussanga was the presenter of a programme on Radio Despertar, a station critical of the ruling MPLA government.

Bahrain

Human Rights Watch urges authorities to halt threats against rights defenders

The King was urged to commission an independent investigation into torture allegations.

Togo

President Gnassingbé files lawsuit against yet another newspaper

An article published in "La Lanterne" newspaper was deemed to contain false claims that were insulting to Gnassingbé's reputation.

Ecuador

Journalist leaves television station saying he was subjected to pressure tactics

According to Fausto Valdiviezo, President Rafael Correa's harsh criticism of his continued employment by the station was among the reasons for his resignation.

Mongolia

Authorities confiscate computer containing newspaper's confidential information

The action was linked to a defamation case filed by government officials who were angered by the publication of a letter in "Niigmiin toli" newspaper.

Turkey

Newspaper executives on trial for "spreading propaganda for an illegal organisation"

The journalists are being tried based on an interview that was conducted with the head of the steering council of the Democratic Confederation of Kurdistan (KCK).

United States

IAPA surprised at libel suit filed by Florida politician

Politician Jeff Greene alleges that he was defeated in the primaries because of two newspapers' campaign to damage his reputation.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Human rights defender abducted, mistreated

The day after his reappearance, Sylvestre Bwira Kyahi was visibly weak, his face was swollen, and his arms bore the marks of the ropes that he said were used to tie him during his detention.

Iraq

Second targeted killing of a TV presenter in two days

Safaa Al-Dine Abdul Hameed was gunned down outside his home in the northern city of Mosul as he was leaving for work.

Nepal

Two journalists threatened in separate incidents

Freedom Forum calls on the law-enforcement bodies of each district to investigate the incidents and prosecute the culprits.

Maldives

IFJ concerned about increasing hostility against independent media

"The physical and verbal attacks on media organisations . . . could create an environment that would be adverse to press freedom in the country," says IFJ.

Ecuador

Radio journalist leaves programme after 17 years

Julio Ayala Sierra explained that his presence at Radio Atalaya has resulted in the station being blacklisted and being deprived of some government advertising revenues.

Ukraine

Camera operator beaten in Poltava

Serhiy Zaleskiy was assaulted by security guards who were angered by an unflattering media report on their place of business.

China

Microblogging websites to recruit censors to step up pressure on netizens

"China's censors are giving themselves an additional layer of control," RSF said.

The Gambia

Nigerian rights defender jailed in The Gambia; his organisation banned indefinitely

Edwin Nebolisa Kwakaeme was sentenced to a mandatory six-month prison term with hard labour for allegedly giving false information to the president's office.

China

Journalist arrested for writing book about Sanmenxia Dam

Xie Chaoping's book, "The Great Migration", concerns the fate of people displaced by the dam, considered a major source of environmental damage and human suffering.

Bahrain

Dozens of websites and electronic forums blocked

Some of the targeted websites publish statements from the opposition and human rights organisations, including BCHR.

Iran

Prominent lawyer arrested

Nasrin Sotoudeh is charged with "anti-government propaganda" and "conspiring against the regime".

Egypt

Defamation case against prominent journalist referred to criminal court

Journalist Hamdi Kandil could face a fine or up to six months in prison for allegedly insulting the foreign minister.

Iraq

IFJ condemns killing of journalist

Ryad Al-Saray, a presenter at Al-Iraqiya Television, was killed when unidentified gunmen opened fire on his car.

Russia

Media reporting on forest fires face restrictions

All new data about forest fires near the city of Severouralsk have been classified, and earlier information is being thoroughly "glossed over" and "embellished" by police officers.

Colombia

Teleantioquia Noticias correspondent receives death threats

Journalist Carlos Cervantes told FLIP that he reports on the local government administration in Bajo Cauca Antioqueño for Teleantioquia Noticias.

China

Two more Tibetan journalists arrested in Qinghai province

Buddha and Kalsang Jinpa are facing separatism charges because of their articles about Tibet and the March 2008 unrest in particular, RSF said.

Yemen

Several journalists attacked while covering protests

A reporter for the Al-Sahwa website and two other journalists were insulted and attacked by a postal service security guard, according to RSF.

Somalia

NUSOJ condemns continued detention of journalist by Puntland authorities

Reporter Yusuf Ali Adan has been held incommunicado at a secret prison since June.

Afghanistan

Journalist stabbed to death in Kabul

Former TV presenter Sayed Hamid Noori was "a politically committed journalist and an active member of the National Union of Afghan Journalists," RSF said.

Bahrain

Blogger arrested amidst crackdown

Internet pioneer Ali Abdulemam was arrested after receiving an order to appear before the National Security Apparatus.

Sri Lanka

Exiled journalist and his family continue to receive threats

Unidentified visitors told Waruni Balasooriya, the wife of exiled journalist Gamini Pushpakumara, they would find and kill her husband.

Pakistan

Journalist abducted, tortured

Journalist Umer Cheema was warned to stop writing reports against the government, and told that his colleague Ansar Abbasi would be targetted next.

Afghanistan

Japanese reporter's release raises hopes for French journalists

Kosuke Tsuneoka was transfered to the Japanese embassy in Kabul and is flying back to Osaka, relatives told RSF.

China

IFJ concerned about troubling series of assaults on journalists

Zhang Peng was punched in the head and neck when he was trying to take photographs of a quarrel between security officers and drivers who may have breached parking rules.

Argentina

Journalist and community leader assassinated in Buenos Aires shanty town

Adams Ledesma Valenzuela, director of the cable channel Mundo TV Villa, was stabbed several times in front of his home.

Uganda

Journalist questioned by police for over five hours

Radio Two journalist Richard Mivule was grilled over a programme he hosted during the September 2009 riotes.

Pakistan

Two media workers killed, several others injured in suicide bomb blast in Quetta

The journalists were covering a protest march when the suicide bomb went off, which was then followed by shooting.

Turkey

Two Kurdish newspapers suspended; magazine copies seized

The "Azadiya Welat" and "Rojev" papers have been suspended for one month under allegations of "spreading propaganda for a terrorist organisation".

El Salvador

A year later, many arrests in journalist's murder but facts still unclear

Christian Poveda was one of the few journalists to cover the country's local gangs from the inside.

Malaysia

Editor charged over satirical blog post

Blogger Irwan Abdul Rahman said the "fake jokes" he posts in his blogs are meant as "stress relief."

Egypt

Journalist and blogger fined and sentenced to six months in jail

Ashraf Shehata was convicted of libel and insult, while the internet café owners where he blogged were found guilty of illegally operating a communications network.

Jordan

Government yields to protests, modifies cyber crimes law

RSF continues to call for the repeal of the law as it still grants the authorities arbitrary restrictive powers.

Uganda

Photojournalist arrested over alleged publication of defamatory material

Tony Kizito was arrested after "Kamunye" newspaper ran a story naming resident district commissioners who had prevented King Ronald Muwenda Mutebi II from touring his counties.

Mexico

"Noroeste" newspaper threatened yet again

The newspaper said it has become very difficult to practice journalism professionally and responsibly under the current conditions

Togo

President files more defamation suits against two newspapers

Two of the lawsuits were brought against the weekly "L'Indépendant Express".

Ukraine

Witness in case of missing editor disappears, newspaper's lawyer locked in his apartment by police

A witness in the case of missing editor Vasyl Klymentyev has also gone missing, according to Petro Matvienko, deputy editor-in-chief of "Noviy Stil" newspaper.

Mexico

"Noroeste" newspaper facilities in Sinaloa attacked by armed men

The newspaper issued a statement saying that its facilities in Mazatlán were the target of an armed attack hours after having received a threatening telephone call.

The Gambia

President's aide launches defamation suit against US-based online newspaper

The lawsuit comes after Freedom Newspaper retracted stories about Amadou Samba, businessman and publisher of "The Daily Observer".

Cameroon

Newspaper editor hospitalised after being attacked in his cell

Imprisoned editor Robert Mintya was taken to a hospital more than two weeks after being seriously injured by a fellow inmate.

India

IFJ welcomes new disclosure rules for media

Concerns about news coverage came into focus after the 2009 elections, when several newspapers were found to have opened bargain counters for candidates to bid for favourable coverage.

Ecuador

Television journalist critical of the government resigns from his position

In his final message to his viewers, Jorge Ortiz said that he would meet his audience again "when Ecuadorians live in a democracy once more."

Malawi

President threatens to close newspapers that "lie"

President Bingu wa Mutharika threatened to shut down newspapers that "tarnish" his government's image, according to news reports.

Colombia

Journalist escapes unharmed from assassination attempt

Marco Tulio Valencia said the assassination attempt could be related to information his newspaper has published information about drug trafficking in Mariquita.

Iran

Release rights activist, guarantee her a fair trial, says Human Rights Watch

If convicted, activist Shiva Nazar Ahari faces possible death penalty.

Cambodia

International groups condemn sentencing of local rights staffer

Leang Sokchouen was sentenced to two years in prison after having been charged with involvement in the production and distribution of anti-government leaflets.

Paraguay

SPP concerned over threat against journalist

After announcing details of a demonstration to protest against a lack of public safety, journalist Rosendo Duarte received a threatening telephone call.

China

Police block reporting of aircraft crash

IFJ is concerned about the detention of journalists who were reporting on a deadly aircraft crash and about a restrictive order placed on reporting details of the incident's aftermath.

Venezuela

Ban on publication of violent photographs lifted

Judge Wiliam Páez revoked the ban on the publication of violent photographs by print media, but the measure still applies to the "El Nacional" and "Tal Cual" newspapers.

Philippines

Don't blame media for hostage tragedy, says HKJA

In an open letter, the HKJA urges Philippine President Benigno Aquino not to blame the media for its coverage of the hostage tragedy.

Honduras

Radio station forced off air by vandalism

Radio Uno stopped broadcasting after the power lines to its transmitters were cut on the evening of 30 August.

Nepal

Politician threatens journalists; another journalist assaulted

A mob assaulted editor and publisher Bhim Rasaili in retaliation for an article on prostitution that appeared in "Himalpari Weekly".

Thailand

Grenade explodes in front of government's TV station

The grenade hit a tree before exploding, damaging six parked cars nearby.

Bahrain

Abduljalil Alsingace brutally tortured, detained for weeks

Acts such as kidnapping and torture are not those of a governing body that pledges respect for human rights and the rule of law, says BCHR.

Azerbaijan

Journalist stabbed

Rasul Shukursoy, a sports writer for "Komanda" newspaper, thinks the attack is related to an article the newspaper recently published.

Somalia

Journalist murdered in Galkayo

Abdullahi Omar Gedi, who was a newscaster and reporter for Radio Daljir, was stabbed several times in the chest and legs.

Ecuador

Arrest warrant issued for journalist, mayor threatens to initiate legal action against him

Juan Alcívar Ríos says that the arrest warrant is linked to his criticism of the local mayor.

Iraq

Police attack journalist's home in Baghdad

Police officers fired on the home of the head of the Iraqi Press Agency, injuring his wife and other relatives.

Guatemala

Shots fired at journalist's home

Several assailants fired 28 shots at journalist Edin Rodelmiro Maaz Bol's home in Cobán.

China

Two-year jail sentences for two student magazine editors

Two other editors of "Namchak" who were arrested at the same time are still awaiting trial.

Ukraine

Two TV stations have licences revoked, could face criminal charges

Privately-run TV stations TVi and 5 Kanal were the only two independent and unbiased channels left in the country, according to the Ukrainian media watchdog Telekritika.

Vietnam

Government urged to pardon detained journalists and netizens

Vietnam needs to respect its undertakings to guarantee freedom of expression, RSF said.

Ukraine

Shots fired at windows of newspaper office

"Svitlytsa" newspaper had recently published reports that were critical of the local authorities.

Palestine

Attack on Watan TV crew a flagrant violation of free expression, says MADA

Watan TV said that security service personnel beat two journalists and confiscated their videotape while they were covering a protest march.

Pakistan

TV reporter assaulted, receives death threats after reporting on lynching

Journalist Hafiz Muhammad Imran believes the attack is a reprisal for filming the beating death of two brothers by an enraged mob.

Senegal

Newspaper editor gets six months in prison for defaming president's chief of staff

A warrant has been issued for the arrest of Abdourahmane Diallo who was tried in absentia but has not yet been detained.

Turkey

ECHR rules against Turkey in case of murdered journalist

The European Court of Human Rights ruled that Turkey neither prevented the murder of journalist Hrant Dink nor carried out an effective investigation after his death.

United States

Writers support Park51 project, religious freedom

PEN American Center members support the free exercise of religion as a fundamental benchmark of freedom of expression.

Kosovo (Serbia)

IPI alarmed at limitation on freedom of movement of Kosovo journalists

Several journalists and media representatives working in Kosovo have been denied a passport because they are under police investigation.

Mexico

Car bomb explodes outside Tamaulipas Televisa offices

This is the third attack against Televisa in less than a month.

Bahrain

BCHR condemns attack on "Alwatan" newspaper president

Editor Muhannad Abu Zeitoun was attacked by anonymous individuals in front of the newspaper's headquarters.

Sierra Leone

Court detains journalist for four hours

Arthwah Maddie was detained for erroneously reporting the age of a man jailed for incest.

Kazakhstan

Lawsuit against independent newspaper dismissed

The "Central Asia Monitor" newspaper was sued for US$2.4 million after it published critical articles about several companies.

Argentina

IAPA concerned over possible regulation of newsprint

According to the IAPA, a bill backed by President Cristina Kirchner is unconstitutional and represents an attempt to control the media.

Turkey

Reporter receives threatening message with photograph of assassinated journalist Hrant Dink

Ozgut Topsakal received an e-mail saying he would be "called to account" by an ultra-nationalist youth organisation for an article he wrote.

China

RSF urges Fujian authorities to grant full release to ailing blogger

Fan Yanqiong was taken to hospital in a serious condition but it seems she had been accorded only a provisional release on health grounds, according to RSF.

Argentina

Media worker injured in arson attack, radio station forced off air

Journalist Carlos Villanueva said the attack was linked to his criticism of the local municipal government.

Greece

Organisation claims responsibility for murder of journalist, threatens media

The rise of an organisation proclaiming its intention to "make blood flow", leaving "not a millimetre of safe refuge in the lives" of journalists, should set alarm bells ringing," IPI said.

China

Private-sector companies in battle with journalists over information

Journalists and media are increasingly finding themselves the targets of threats and censorship by private-sector companies, according to RSF.

Colombia

Human rights activist found dead

Shortly before she was killed, Norma Irene Perez participated in a demonstration calling for an investigation of a mass grave thought to hold the bodies of up to 2000 people killed by the military.

Russia

Newspaper facing legal action over reports of police brutality

The lawsuit by police followed a series of articles citing complaints by residents of a village outside Moscow about police officers' rude behavior, GDF said.

Yemen

Dozens of journalists reportedly held on way to peace conference

The incident comes less than a week after freelance journalist and Al Qaeda analyst Abdulelah Hiden Shaea was arrested for the second time.

Togo

Newspaper banned indefinitely, fined for defaming president's brother; reporter assaulted in court

"Tribune d'Afrique", a privately-owned newspaper, is accused of defaming Mey Gnassingbé, Togolese President Faure Essozimna Gnassingbé's brother.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Journalist released on bail after 24 days in detention

Pascal Mulunda was released after posting bail.

Nepal

Writer receives death threat from underground group

"I am under psychological pressure," journalist Damodar Bhandari told Freedom Forum. "I am not sure whether they will take any unpleasant action against me."

Turkey

Diyarbakir mayor faces up to three years in jail for speech

Osman Baydemir was charged after he gave a speech criticising security operations against an outlawed organisation.

Iraq

Journalist kidnapped and murdered

The body of editor Kamal Qassim Mohamed was found six days after his abduction by gunmen.

China

Journalist interrogated by police over controversial reporting on website

Two Beijing-based journalists at Qianlong.com reported that Shandong Hilead Biotechnology was possibly involved in a dispute over product ownership.

China

China restricts reporting on Philippines hostage tragedy

"The order attempts to muzzle open reporting of the circumstances surrounding recent events in the Philippines and must be lifted," IFJ said.

Togo

Several journalists threatened for expressing their opinion

The Union of Independent Journalists of Togo demanded protection for its members to enable them to carry out their duties without fear or intimidation.

Honduras

Journalist killed in San Pedro Sula

Journalist Israel Zelaya Díaz was found dead in a sugarcane plantation close to the city of Villanueva, with bullet wounds to his body.

Uganda

Constitutional Court nullifies law on sedition

The Constitutional Court ruled that "sections of the penal code are unconstitutional and inconsistent with Article 29 (1) which guarantee freedom of speech".

Cuba

Another journalist freed, flown to Spain

Juan Adolfo Fernández Saínz said he was happy to have regained his freedom, but wished he's been given the chance to stay in Cuba.

Venezuela

Alleged plotter of murder of Venezuelan journalist arrested in Colombia

Walid Makled García is facing extradition to Venezuela as the mastermind in the 2009 murder of journalist Orel Sambrano.

Somalia

Radio station seized in Mogadishu

NUSOJ fears the Al-Shabaab takeover of Radio Holy Quran, a privately-owned station, will deprive citizens of independent information.

Azerbaijan

Football player assaults newspaper editor

A football player stormed into the "Komanda" newspaper offices, assaulted editor-in-chief Rashad Ergun and damaged office equipment.

Yemen

Security forces detain cartoonist who witnessed journalist's arrest

No reasons have been given for the detention of Kamal Sharaf, who is being held at the national security jail along with journalist Abd AlElah Haidar.

Iran

Human rights activist in danger of execution

Shiva Nazar Ahari is scheduled to be tried before the Revolutionary Court on 4 September.

Azerbaijan

Supreme Court rejects bloggers' appeal, prison sentences upheld

Lawyers for bloggers Emin Milli and Adnan Hajizade plan to appeal to the European Court of Human Rights.

Venezuela

Supreme Court allows extradition request against Globovisión president to proceed

The court's ruling paves the way for the Venezuelan authorities to begin proceedings before the United States justice system to obtain the extradition of Guillermo Zuloaga Núñez.

Togo

President Gnassingbé launches defamation lawsuit against newspaper

"L'Indépendant Express" published articles accusing the president of fighting with a Togolese soccer star over a beauty queen.

Somalia

NUSOJ mourns as Mogadishu violence claims the life of veteran journalist

Hurma Radio director Barkhad Awale Adan was hit by a bullet during an exchange of gunfire between the Transitional Federation Government and Al-Shabaab.

Uganda

Court blocks media from publicising information about investigation into bomb blasts

Police officials have said that media reports about the investigation into the 11 July bomb blasts are facilitating the getaway of suspects who are still at large.

Chad

Parliament adopts repressive media law

"Prison sentences for journalists have not disappeared. They have been eliminated in one place but reappeared in another," RSF said.

Israel / The Gambia

IFJ calls on Israel to review detention order against Gambian journalist

Bubacar Ceesay says he was arrested and tortured in The Gambia after he had published a story on corruption in the "Independent" newspaper.

Asia and Pacific

New Pacific region media body established

The Pacific Media Association was formed at a meeting in Samoa on 12 August.

Iran

Regime continues to close newspapers

RSF condemns the closure of three newspapers and the imposition of a jail sentence on another journalist in the government's continuing crackdown on the media.

Uganda

TV journalist detained for four hours, released without charge

WBS journalist Harrison Thembo was arrested by police at the Uganda-DR Congo border for filming immigration office activities.

China

China bars all reporting on deadly explosion in Xinjiang

The IFJ urges authorities to lift the reporting ban immediately, noting that in times of crisis it is essential that the public is able to access updated and credible information.

Bangladesh

Acting editor handed maximum six-month sentence for contempt of court

The decision to sentence Mahmudur Rahman to prison "could reflect an ongoing attempt to intimidate and silence a news outlet that does not reflect the ruling party line," said IPI.

Kazakhstan

Media organisations express concern over seizure of newspaper's assets

A criminal case was filed against the "Central Asia Monitor" following the publication of several critical stories.

Indonesia

TV reporter slain while covering clash between villagers

Ridwan Salamun of the Jakarta-based Sun TV died from hack wounds inflicted by angry villagers in Tual, Maluku.

Liberia

Community radio station attacked

Radio Tamba Taikor was forced off the air after the attack damaged its equipment, including a 50-watt transmitter, a console board and a computer.

Nepal

Journalist threatened in Morang

Mohan Bhattrai was threatened by the operator of an employment agency following the publication of an article about the detention of Nepali workers in Libya.

Cuba

Two more reporters freed, arrive in Madrid

Fabio Prieto Llorente and Juan Carlos Herrera Acosta were both imprisoned in March 2003 during the massive crackdown on political dissent and independent journalism.

China

IFJ concerned at ban on reporting food safety issue

The Central Propaganda Department issued an order requiring that the media stop reporting on a product suspected of bringing on puberty in babies.

Philippines

Trial date set for Mindanao massacre trial

"It is encouraging to see the trial for the Maguindanao massacre move ahead quickly," CPJ said.

Peru

Government reinstates radio station's licence

A decision was made to restore the licence when it was realised that the government could be infringing on rights recognised by the American Convention on Human Rights.

Russia

Journalist killed in Makhachkala

Magomedvagif Sultanmagomedov, the editor-in-chief of Makhachkala-TV, died from gunshot wounds he received after attackers opened fire on him as he was driving his car.

Ukraine

Editor missing in Kharkiv, feared dead

Vasyl Klymentyev, who has been missing since 11 August, is editor-in-chief of a local newspaper known for its criticism of law enforcement agencies.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Journalist evacuated from city after receiving serious death threats

Kananga-based journalist Michel Tshiyoyo was evacuated after receiving multiple anonymous death threats.

Venezuela

Court bans violent photographs in newspapers

The editor of the daily "El Nacional" suspects the month-long ban is aimed at curtailing press coverage of crime ahead of upcoming legislative elections.

Iran

Journalist Badressadat Mofidi gets six years in jail

Mofidi was sentenced for "assembly and collusion to commit a crime" and "propagating against the regime".

Burma

State censors suspend another journal

The "Modern Times" journal was suspended after it changed the title of an article on its cover from the headline that had been approved by the junta's censorship board.

Pakistan

State-owned radio station facilities attacked in Balochistan

Two days after the Radio Pakistan facilities in Gwadar suffered a grenade attack, unidentified individuals fired rockets at the station's facilities in the town of Khuzda.

Turkey

American journalist faces deportation

The deportation decision against Jake Hess is based on an accusation that he "constitutes a threat to national security".

Philippines

IFJ fears murder suspect will be freed

A suspect in the murder of broadcaster Desidario "Jessie" Camangyan is expected to be released from custody just two days before he is due to face trial.

Cuba

Twelfth writer released into exile

Poet and activist Régis Iglesias Ramírez was freed on 17 August 2010 and arrived in Madrid the next day.

Yemen

CPJ calls on authorities to release detained journalist

Abdulelah Hider Shaea, who covers Islamist groups including Al-Qaeda, was reportedly arrested by armed security forces after they raided his family home.

India

Chennai magazine editor still held after one month, tortured

Mani is being held on trumped-up charges, including one of attempted murder, and has been tortured, RSF reports.

Bahrain

Opposition activists apparently detained for criticism of government, Human Rights Watch says

The men's whereabouts are unknown, and they have not been allowed to contact their families or lawyer.

East Timor

IFJ worried by threat against newspaper

The "Tempo Semanal" editor said he was concerned for the welfare of the organisation's personnel after receiving a threatening e-mail.

United States / United Kingdom

Freedom House applauds US law combatting "libel tourism"

At the same time, Freedom House urged England and other countries with weak libel protections to reform their laws and prevent "libel tourism" lawsuits.

Peru

Ministry rejects Council of Ministers' proposal to reinstate Radio La Voz de Bagua's licence

The MTC deputy minister claimed that annulling or revoking a resolution issued by the ministry was not possible, as it would be illegal.

Venezuela

Vice-president submits bill preventing banks from owning shares in media

Nelson Mezerhane, the owner of Banco Federal, is also a shareholder in Globovisión.

Nepal

Journalist assaulted, critically injured

Lilanath Ghimire was assaulted while reporting on the alleged involvement of a senior superintendent of police in "suspicious activities" at a restaurant.

Pakistan

Pakistan Press Foundation website hacked

The website was hacked by the "Indian Cyber Army".

Somalia

Puntland bans media from interviewing rebels

The Puntland Information Minister ordered news organisations and journalists not to interview the rebels who are fighting forces of the semiautonomous regional state.

Burma

Escalate international pressure ahead of November 7 polls, says Human Rights Watch

The national elections announced by the military government are designed to further entrench military rule with a civilian facade, Human Rights Watch said.

Mexico

Televisa facilities in Tamaulipas and Nuevo Leon attacked with explosives

Within just a few hours of each other, two facilities belonging to the Televisa media conglomerate were attacked, causing damages to property but no injuries.

Somalia

NUSOJ condemns six-year jail sentence against media director in Puntland

Journalist Abdifatah Jama Mire was charged and convicted of "interviewing and broadcasting views of people who are fighting the government".

Paraguay

SPP condemns actions against journalist, attempt to censor radio station

Unidentified individuals fired gunshots and threatened journalist Martín Caballero, who has been publicising allegations related to a strike by steelworkers.

Turkey

CPJ calls on Turkey to release American journalist

Journalist Jake Hess is accused of collaborating with the Kurdish Communities Union.

Syria

Prominent lawyer turning 80 in jail

Haytham al-Maleh is serving three years for criticising the Syrian authorities

India

Authorities give Research In Motion deadline to provide access to BlackBerry services

RIM has until 31 August to provide the intelligence agencies with access to BlackBerry's encrypted email and messaging services or else those services will be shut down.

Philippines

Alleged gunmen acquitted in 2004 killing of journalist

Ilocos Norte-based broadcaster Roger Mariano was allegedly looking into suspected anomalous transactions at the local electric cooperative before he was killed.

Sri Lanka

Police attack, assault demonstrators at protest march

FMM condemned the incident, calling it an attack on freedom of expression and the right to hold political opinions.

Venezuela

Community radio journalist arrested and beaten

Journalist Alí Verenzuela remained handcuffed for more than three hours even though he was identified as a radio journalist.

Lebanon

Journalist detained and questioned for six hours

Intelligence officers wanted Hassan Alleik, a reporter for the "Al-Akhbar" newspaper, to reveal his sources for a recent article that he wrote.

Burundi

Journalist released provisionally after three days in prison

Thierry Ndayishimiye is accused of "defamation" relating to the director general of the national electricity company.

Jordan

New law allows government to regulate online content

The penalties, which range from fines to forced labour, depend on the content posted. The authorities have invoked the need to defend the public interest and regulate the online "chaos".

Kyrgyzstan

CPJ decries extremism charges against journalists

Trumped-up charges of extremism against Ulugbek Abdusalomov, the editor of an independent newspaper, and Azimjon Askarov, a journalist and human rights defender, should be dropped immediately, CPJ said.

Nepal

Public hospital staffer threatens journalists

The staffer threatened journalist Agandhar Tiwari, saying that he could do anything if a news report about the x-ray department was made public.

Burundi

Editor arrested and detained on "defamation" charges

Thierry Ndayishimiye denounced the alleged embezzlement in the country's national water and electricity company.

Colombia

Car bomb explodes outside Caracol Radio offices

"Those who think this attack is going to silence us are very wrong," said one of the station's journalists.

Kazakhstan

Newspaper ordered to pay approx. US$136,000 for "moral damages"

The editor-in-chief of "Uralskaya Nedelya" says that the fine will bankrupt the paper and force it to close.

Colombia

Journalist attacked, threatened in Antioquia

A supporter of the mayor in the town of Dabeiba hit Juan David Betancourt on the head with a blunt object.

Suriname

Desi Bouterse's installation as president must not mean impunity for past murders of journalists, RSF says

Sentenced to 11 years in prison in absentia in the Netherlands in 1999 on a charge of drug trafficking, Bouterse could still get a 20-year jail sentence in Surinam if convicted of the Fort Zeelandia massacre.

Somalia

Puntland authorities order suspension of broadcast journalist from his work

Journalists believe Nuh Muse Birjeb has been enduring a series of actions against him originating from Puntland officials who could not tolerate his news reports.

Venezuela

Photojournalist beaten while covering demonstration

Wilfredo Yustis was struck on the head with a shovel by demonstrators who did not want to be photographed while protesting before the National Housing Institute headquarters.

Indonesia

Government orders ISPs to start anti-porn filtering

Internet service providers that fail to comply with the order have been threatened with closure.

Serbia

IPI alarmed at limitation on freedom of information imposed by mayor of Zajecar

Mayor Bosko Nicic decided to prevent all directors of companies and public institutions in the city from making statements to the media without his prior consent.

Ukraine

Television and radio station company's property seized in Crimea

The property of the Chornomorska company, the main mass media outlet of the Crimean opposition, has been seized, according to the "Ukrayinska Pravda" online edition.

Sudan

Government announces lifting of prior censorship but journalists and media still seriously threatened

This announcement was designed to make international observers think that press freedom is being restored in Sudan, but in fact it is a slap in the face, RSF said.

Mexico

Newspaper editor freed after being held by abductors for 10 days

Ulises González García appeared to have been tortured and was treated in hospital immediately after being released.

Ukraine

IPI addresses open letter to president over press freedom concerns

"After President Yanukovych came to power a number of topics became off limits," said an executive from the private TV station TVi.

Iraq

KDP paper publishes threat against Sulaymaniyah journalists

CPJ is alarmed by death threats made against journalists after "Livin" magazine published an interview that was critical of a 20th-century Kurdish leader.

Indonesia

Moluccan "balloon activists" arrested in Ambon

Human Rights Watch is concerned that past torture and ill-treatment of political prisoners in Ambon puts the detained activists at serious risk.

Pakistan

IFJ calls on political parties to respect protesting journalists

Journalists have voiced strong objection to obstruction of broadcasts by GEO TV and ARY News.

Ukraine

Photographer harassed by unidentified individuals while on assignment

Danylo Pavlov was attacked by two unidentified individuals while he was taking photographs for a news story.

Brazil

Editor assaulted in Rondônia state

According to Afonso Locks, the assault was motivated by an article he published criticising the former mayor of the municipality of Cerejeiras.

Uruguay

IAPA labels call for imprisonment of journalist, seizure of his book a "surprising step backward"

"Judgments of this kind take us back to the worst times that press freedom has faced in the Americas," says IAPA.

Tibet (China)

Authorities insist on surveillance and filtering software in all Internet cafés, companies

The authorities are insisting that all Internet cafés and companies that make computers available to the public install the same sophisticated filtering and surveillance software that was recently imposed in Beijing.

Indonesia

IFJ condemns court ruling on Balibo ban

The Jakarta State Administrative Court upheld a ban on an award-winning film depicting the murder of Australian journalists in 1975.

Brazil

Journalist's convicted murderer openly dealing drugs in Rio

Eliseu Felício de Souza, convicted for his role in the murder of TV Globo reporter Tim Lopes, is openly operating as drug dealer in Rio de Janeiro.

Venezuela

Bomb attack damages newspaper building

Two men on a motorcycle threw bombs at the "Las Noticias de Cojedes" building, also damaging a minivan belonging to the newspaper "Diario La Opinión".

Egypt

Activists arrested for demanding democratic reform

Six members of the Muslim Brotherhood were arrested for calling on citizens to sign the seven demands of democratic reform proposed by the National Assembly for Change.

Venezuela

Government supporters damage television station building's facade

Supporters of President Hugo Chávez's government painted the façade of the Globovisón television station's headquarters with ruling party logos and messages backing Chávez.

Nepal

Constituent Assembly member threatens journalists

Pramod Gupta issued the threat after the media reported that he had secretly met with leaders of the Unified Communist Party of Nepal-Maoist.

Venezuela

Radio programme taken off the air due to political interests

The programme "Hablando Claro y Raspao", broadcast by Class 98.7 FM, was taken off the air after the state governor bought all of the station's air time.

Malaysia

Civil society groups call for review of Selangor state's freedom of information bill

The new freedom of information bill is a step in the right direction, but according to the Coalition of Good Governance many changes still need to be made to strengthen it.

Sudan

Government bans BBC Arabic, tightens grip on the press

According to local sources, security personnel are threatening to detain journalists who do not complete an extensive government questionnaire.

Pakistan

Media face retaliation over critical coverage of president's European visit

Supporters of the ruling Pakistan People's Party reportedly blocked the transmission of two TV news channels and set fire to copies of newspapers.

Colombia

Missing photojournalist reappears

Rodolfo Flórez disappeared on 9 July and reports indicate that he was kidnapped by the FARC.

Serbia

Journalist's attackers arrested

In light of the arrests and the fact that Teofil Pancic's attackers belong to one of the country's extremist organisations, the local press and numerous national press organisations are demanding a ban on fascist, neo-Nazi and racist groups.

Benin

Authorities "gag" media on corruption allegations involving President Boni Yayi

The allegations claim that Boni Yayi offered illegal assistance to an insurance company, which reportedly funded his campaign.

China

Authorities ban reporting on deadly mudslide

A restrictive order was sent by China's Central Propaganda Department which states that no journalists should be sent to the vicinity of the mudslide in Gansu province.

Indonesia

ARTICLE 19 helps ensure effective implementation of Freedom of Information Law

The Freedom of Information Law of 2008 came into effect in May 2010; however, most public bodies have yet to develop measures to implement it.

Serbia

Seemingly positive media developments a step in right direction, says IPI

The alleged perpetrators of a brutal attack on journalist Teofil Pancic have been captured.

Iraq

Kurdistan Democratic Party targets paper that alleged oil smuggling

The complaint, filed under Saddam Hussein-era criminal statutes, seeks US$1 billion in damages and the closing of the newspaper.

Uganda

Journalist's home searched

Kampala police searched the home of journalist Timothy Kalyegira, who has been charged with sedition.

Palestine

Political tension continues to take its toll on journalists in Gaza and West Bank

"Not a week goes by without flagrant press freedom violations in the Gaza Strip or the West Bank," RSF said.

Venezuela

Authorities expropriate land belonging to newspaper for "public use"

The land was going to be used by "Las Noticias de Cojedes" to build a new headquarters.

Palestine

MADA condemns police beating of journalist

Ahmad Fayyad was beaten by special police while covering a concert by a Jordanian band.

Mexico

CPJ welcomes arrests in Mexican journalists' abductions

Mexican police say that the three men, who were arrested in Gómez Palacio, worked for the criminal group known as Cartel del Pacífico.

Iran

Evin Prison hunger strike highlights inhumane conditions

The journalists, who are on the second week of their hunger strike and are being kept in solitary confinement, are demanding respect for prisoners' rights, improved health care, and their own return to the general prison population.

Jordan

Government blocks dozens of independent news websites

Claiming that "browsing the internet is a waste of work time," the Jordanian has government blocked more than 40 independent news websites from being seen by civil servants.

China

Business reporter taken off "most wanted" list

"We welcome the apology that the Suichang police have given to Qiu Ziming and we call for a transparent investigation into why he was placed on a national list of wanted criminals," RSF said.

Palestine

Committee formed to investigate actions against television and radio station; Alnajah press office director detained

Government officials demanded that Nablus TV personnel close the television station and stop broadcasting, while threatening notices were sent to many other television and radio stations.

Yemen

New threats to press freedom

"We fear that Yemen is now entering a new phase of violence against media that dare to criticise the policies imposed by the government," RSF said.

Egypt

Actor acquitted in Facebook libel case

The ruling is supportive of online social networks, which have made it possible for all individuals to exercise their right to express themselves, says ANHRI.

Egypt

Website editor sentenced to six months in prison

Sherif Abd El Hamid was sentenced on a defamation charge in a case brought against him by the member of parliament for El Saf.

Philippines

Military intimidation of journalists continues

Reporter Florante Solmerin was reportedly manhandled by officials at a military installation in Quezon City.

Côte d'Ivoire

Reporter gets one year in jail on defamation and extortion charges

Traoré Médandjé accused a director of health of getting rich by setting up illegal private clinics.

Russia

Ignoring protests, President Medvedev expands FSB power

A measure signed into law will expand the powers of security agents and contribute to a climate of fear among government critics, says CPJ.

Russia

Journalist killed in suspicious car accident

Shortly before her death, Bella Ksalova told her colleagues that she was under surveillance.

Philippines

Journalist succumbs to his wounds; police give conflicting statements about his death

Miguel Belen died in hospital from seven .45 caliber bullet wounds he sustained when he was shot by two men on a motorcycle. He was a general assignment news reporter.

Malaysia

Police arrest protesters for denouncing anniversary of repressive law

Although all were later released, they have to report to a police stations within two weeks.

Moldova

TV journalist assaulted by law enforcement officer

The incident occurred in front of the Chisinau Court of Appeal building while reporter Victor Ciobanu was covering a story about a copyright infringement case.

Azerbaijan

Lawsuits against "Khural" newspaper could result in its closure

Editor-in-chief Avaz Zeynalli said that several civil and criminal lawsuits had been filed against him and his newspaper in the last two months.

Turkey

Court acquits writer of "insult" after ECHR rules in her favour

In a case that dates back to 1999, a Bakirkoy court overturned the previous conviction of Meral Tamer on a charge levelled against her by former president Süleyman Demirel.

Uganda

Journalist arrested, charged with sedition

The law on sedition is commonly used against journalists and other people with divergent views, HRNJ-Uganda noted.

Sri Lanka

Privately-owned broadcaster torched

Two employees were injured in an arson attack on the offices of the Voice of Asia Network in the heart of the capital, Colombo.

Turkey

Journalist's finger broken in confrontation with police

Police officers confronted Vahap İş and seized his equipment after he began recording footage of them beating a child.

Colombia

IAPA highlights media implications of proposed law on teenagers and children

IAPA expressed concern that "this bill could lead to serious consequences, such as direct censorship".

Mexico

Television station suffers grenade attack in Nuevo Laredo; newspaper receives bomb threat in Ciudad Juárez

The Televisa media conglomerate's Canal 57 television station in Nuevo Laredo was attacked by unidentified individuals who threw a grenade at the station's office building.

Russia

Court orders YouTube and four other sites blocked over "extremist" content

"This unilateral decision, blocking entire websites instead of targeting the offending web pages, violates freedom of information and could affect all of Russia's Internet users," RSF said.

Rwanda

Around 30 news media outlets closed ahead of presidential election

Press freedom violations, including the closure of media outlets and the murder of a newspaper editor, have intensified in the run-up to the election, RSF said.

Azerbaijan

Two journalists assaulted, detained in Mardakan

Elmin Bedelov and Anar Garayli were taking photographs of an affluent residential neighbourhood when they were beaten and then detained by several people.

Russia

Two journalists arbitrarily arrested while covering attack on forest protesters

Elena Kostyuchenko and Yury Timofeyev were arrested while covering the violent dispersal of environmentalists who had camped out at Khimki forest, north of Moscow.

Malaysia

Cartoonist challenges ban on books

The cartoonist Zunar views the ban on two of his books, which are compilations of political cartoons, as disproportionate to the "challenge" posed by the publications.

India

Spike in attacks, threats and intimidation of journalists in Orissa

The IFJ demands action be taken against perpetrators of a deeply disturbing series of attacks upon journalists and media workers in Orissa, in India's east.

China

Authorities concede need for investigations into attacks on journalists

IFJ is concerned by a series of threats, assaults and acts of intimidation against journalists and media workers in recent days.

United Arab Emirates

CPJ alarmed by UAE decision to suspend BlackBerry functionality

UAE says the issue is about bringing BlackBerry services in line with local telecom regulations, but many feel it's an attempt to control and monitor the free flow of information.

Fiji

Journalist detained overnight, questioned over story posted on news website

Richard Naidu ran a story stating Fiji's military police head, Esala Teleni, had been suspended.

Egypt

Fifteen people arrested for handing out flyers

The flyers called for citizens to sign a petition for political reform.

China

Prison sentences for three more Uighur website managers

The website managers were sentenced to prison terms of three to 10 years after being found guilty under broad charges of "endangering state security."

Peru

Journalist receives death threats

Although the threats are anonymous, the journalist suspects the mayor of Alto Amazonas province; the stations he works for are critical of the mayor's administration.

Indonesia

Reporter found dead; had received death threats

At least four local journalists, including Ardiansyah Matra'is, had received threatening text messages in the run-up to local elections.

Lebanon / Israel

Lebanese journalist killed, another wounded during military confrontation in south Lebanon

Reporter Assaf Bou Rahal, of "Al-Akhbar" newspaper", and Ali Cheaib, of Al Manar TV, were covering the bombing of the Al Adaysse region.

Colombia

Eight journalists sued for defamation

The journalists are being sued by Governor Raúl Flórez, who insists they reported falsely that he was being investigated by the department of public prosecutions.

Mexico

Four journalists released after being held for six days by criminals

Media outlets decided not to publicise the kidnapping in order to protect the journalists' lives and the negotiation process; however, the secretary of the Durango state government made an announcement about the incident.

Mexico

Journalist flees to Texas after receiving death threats

Martín López Castro suspects that drug traffickers are behind the threats to kill him and his brother.

Palestine

CPJ condemns prison sentence handed to journalist in West Bank

Amer Abu Arfa, a correspondent for the Shihab news agency, was imprisoned in connection with his news coverage.

Afghanistan

TV station closed on government's orders

The cabinet decided to close down the TV station Emroz for allegedly endangering national unity; two other programmes on different stations were also banned.

China

Writers in U.S. and China denounce formal arrest of Liu Xianbin

The writer and long-time activist could face another decade in prison for "inciting subversion of state power".

China

Journalist put on "most wanted" list for accusing company of improprieties

Reporter Qiu Ziming of "The Economic Observer" is facing a possible two-year prison sentence.

Guatemala

Villagers hold four journalists hostage during blockade

The journalists said they were concerned for their safety because protestors threatened to beat and lynch them and held them overnight.

Somalia

NUSOJ calls on Somaliland's new government to open up broadcast media space

Somaliland authorities have been hesitant to grant broadcast licences to private or independent radio stations, even though many people continue to get their news from unlicenced television and radio channels.

Tunisia

Wave of measures designed to intimidate and silence government critics

"The authorities are trying to rein in criticism of journalist Fahem Boukadous' imprisonment. We reiterate our call for his immediate and unconditional release," RSF said.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Three opposition radio and television stations silenced for 48 hours

The signals of Canal Congo Télévision (CCTV), Canal Kin Télévision (CKTV) and Radio Liberté Kinshasa (RALIK) were cut suddenly on the night of 26 July 2010.

Libya

Three journalists under investigation for publishing articles on corruption

Two journalists are accused of defamation after they exposed financial and administrative corruption at Bu Ateniy Beverages, and a third has been questioned for reporting on allegations of sexual harassment.

Pakistan

RSF condemns recent escalation in violence against journalists

This attack was not a surprise and I am steadily losing hope that I will survive these threats," said one of the victims.

Ukraine

Police raid internet café, damage newspaper's server

Newspaper management said the actions taken by the police were "clearly politically motivated".

Iran

IFJ calls on government to free jailed journalist after claims of mistreatment

"The failure to produce evidence that [Abdolreza Tajik] has broken the law and the fears that he is being abused in jail should be enough to indicate that there is a terrible injustice here," said IFJ.

United Arab Emirates

Wave of arrests of BlackBerry Messenger users

The users of BlackBerry Messenger allegedly tried to organise a protest against an increase in the price of gasoline.

Niger

Authorities suspend decree targeting foreign media

Media and civil rights groups said the decree would restrict the flow of information and gag foreign journalists.

Afghanistan

IFJ questions closure of broadcaster

Emroaz TV was closed following claims by the government that "the television channel was fuelling religious tensions and harming national unity".

Burma

New censorship rules force publications to limit coverage of electoral laws, constitution

The directive calls for "correct and complete quoting of the constitution, electoral laws and its rules".

Iran

Activist Mohammad Sadigh Kaboudvand may have suffered stroke; family claim he is not receiving adequate health care

Kaboudvand, a leading advocate of Kurdish rights, is serving an 11-year sentence on politically motivated charges.

Palestine / Israel

Reporters assaulted by Israeli settlers; two journalists summoned in Gaza

Photographer Jaafar Ishtiyeh and Ayman Al-Numbani were covering a clash between Burin villagers and Israeli settlers when they were assaulted.

Venezuela

Private TV station's concession being reviewed on orders from Chávez

IPYS condemns the anti-democratic management of concessions and the radio-electric spectrum in Venezuela.

Kuwait

Kuwaiti PM starts legal proceedings against Egyptian editor

In May and June 2010, editor Ibrahim Eissa published articles about the legal pursuit of Kuwaiti journalists and the prime minister's failure to prevent this.

Democratic Republic of Congo

Journalist detained for 48 hours over critical article

JED supports the request for the release of editor Pascal Mulunda.

Paraguay

Three assassination attempts against journalist

The attacks were apparently prompted by the journalist's criticism of businessman Isidro Vera during his radio programme.

Turkey

Reporter assaulted in Izmir

Journalist Cevdet Sen was apparently targeted by his attacker because of a news item about a raid on a pharmacy.

Turkey

Journalists prevented from reporting on court case against mayor

Journalists in Zonguldak were barred from the first hearing in the case against local mayor Seckin Ozdemir.

Côte d'Ivoire

"Nouveau Courrier" journalists acquitted on criminal charges, due to be released

The editor, publisher and managing editor were instead convicted of a lesser charge.

Turkey

Writer ordered to pay compensation to politician over newspaper article

Writer Yalcin Ergundogan was found guilty of insulting the chairman of the Independent Party of Turkey (BDP), Haydar Bas, who is also a Sheikh of the Kadiri religious order.

United Arab Emirates

Telephone regulator issues threatening statement regarding use of BlackBerry smartphones

The Telecommunications Regulatory Authority warned that the use of BlackBerry smartphones posed a potential threat to national security.

Colombia

Photojournalist goes missing in Buenaventura, Valle del Cauca

Rodolfo Flórez has been missing since 9 July, when he left his home after receiving a telephone call and never returned.

United States / Colombia

Journalist Hollman Morris granted visa to join Harvard programme

"We're grateful to the State Department for moving quickly to correct the situation," said PEN American Center.

Ecuador

Journalist threatened

The journalist told IPYS and Fundamedios that he fears for his and his family's safety.

Swaziland

Prince says journalists who "write bad things about the country will die"

Local journalists expressed concern over the comments since Prince Mahlaba is part of an influential council that advises the king on media matters.

Mexico

State of Veracruz decriminalises defamation

The decriminalisation of defamation in Veracruz significantly advances efforts to achieve the same change at the national level, says ARTICLE 19.

Ghana

Another editor summoned over story police claim "undermines their image"

The GJA called on police to use constitutional means to address grievances they may have against journalists and the media.

Pakistan

Journalist assaulted in Hyderabad

Sarfraz Wistro, a reporter for the Sindhi-language newspaper "Daily Ibrat", was attacked by assailants who were waiting for him one night outside his house.

Serbia

ANEM strongly condemns attack on journalist Teofil Pancic

The absence of an appropriate state response and the creation of an atmosphere of fear further encourages potential attackers, said ANEM.

Bahrain

Two activists summoned after assisting Al-Jazeera with TV programme

The Al-Jazeera programme highlighted the plight of children who have been denied citizenship in the Arab World.

Indonesia

IFJ demands full inquiry into environmental reporter's death

Muhammad Syaifullah's body was discovered in the living room of his home. Police found a glass of syrup near the body.

Pakistan

Television reporter and his driver shot and injured

Reporter Anwar Kamal and his driver, Nasim Ahmed, were returning after covering a story in Dadu-Manchar Lake when unknown assailants opened fire on their vehicle.

Sri Lanka

IFJ questions government moves on media ethics

The government is proposing to establish a body to examine the ethics of journalists, a move which stands to further impede media independence in the country, warns IFJ.

Pakistan

Six wounded in attack believed to target journalist

At least six women and children were seriously injured after a group of unidentified attackers threw grenades and opened fire on a home connected to television correspondent Zafarullah Bonari.

Palestine / Israel

Israeli forces detain four journalists, strike another with teargas canister

The actions against the journalists took place when they were covering marches in the West Bank.

Israel

Legislature urged to reject proposed legislation that would punish human rights activists, stifle criticism

Four bills and amendments are pending that would seriously restrict the rights of Israelis to criticise the policies and actions of their government.

Azerbaijan

Authorities refuse to free jailed blogger who qualifies for parole

The prison director opposed the bloggers' release on the grounds that he did not do enough prison work and met with his lawyer too often.

China

China sentences Uighur journalist to 15 years

According to international media reports, Gheyrat Niyaz was punished because of an interview with a Chinese-language magazine based in Hong Kong.

Serbia

IFJ hails verdict on media law as a "victory for press freedom"

The Constitutional Court of Serbia has issued a landmark decision rejecting repressive amendments to the Public Information Act.

Nigeria

Suspected political party supporters assault journalists during election

Friday Otabor narrowly escaped death at the hands of the thugs while covering the election at the Igo primary school.

Cuba

Another Cuban journalist freed, flown to Madrid

José Ubaldo Izquierdo Hernández will move to Chile, where the government offered him political asylum.

Turkey

Publisher Ragip Zarakolu back on trial alongside writer Mehmet Güler

The publisher and author stand accused under the Anti Terror Law of promoting violence in relation to the publication of a book by Güler.

Côte d'Ivoire

Two more journalists interrogated about leaked report on embezzlement

Patrice Pohe and Allan Alliali were interrogated for nearly nine hours.

United States

Three months of oil spill but one version of events: How BP is obstructing media coverage

The media have often found it impossible to obtain verifiable, independent information, RSF said.

Iraq

IFJ condemns impunity as suicide strike on Al-Arabiya satellite channel kills six

The attack occurred a month after officials warned that insurgents opposed to the channel were planning to strike against it.

Venezuela

Supreme Court limits access to information

The Constitutional Division of the Supreme Court of Justice issued a ruling limiting access to public information

South Africa

IPI concerned that information bill may impede flow of news

IPI says the bill, which was designed to regulate classification procedures and sets out penalties for disclosing secret information, and may "open itself to abuse."

Brazil

Journalist assaulted

Rodrigo Santos was assaulted by Delfim Peixoto Neto, an advisor to the president of the Catarinense Football Association

Burma

Authorities tighten censorship on Martyrs' Day

Only 50 foreign and local journalists and 10 weekly journals were given permission to cover events held at the Martyrs' Mausoleum in Rangoon.

India

Violence, arrests and censorship in all four corners of the country

Armed conflict between Maoist guerrillas and government security forces is having disturbing repercussions on journalists, RSF said.

India

Media outlets in Manipur state shut down to protest threats against journalist

A militant leader warned S. Singlianmang Guite of dire consequences if his paper did not retract a report it had published.

Iran

Photographer arrested; editor suffers heart attack in prison

Freelance photographer Hamed Saber was arrested after posting photographs of Tehran street protests on photo-sharing websites like Flickr and Picasa.

Mexico

Police officers kidnap, attempt to kill journalist in Veracruz

Officers from the Oluta police force kidnapped and attempted to kill Edgar Irán López Hernández after he witnessed the harassment of another reporter by police and the municipality's mayor.

Iraq

Supreme Judicial Court spokesman announces plans to establish special court for journalists

CPJ calls for disclosure of details about the decision to establish a new press court and an explanation of the mechanisms under which it will operate.

Turkey

Controversial media regulations developed for terrorism coverage

The Television Broadcasters Association determined that certain "principles of news should be followed in situations of terror and other extraordinary circumstances".

Cuba

Tenth freed Cuban reporter lands in Madrid

"I am extremely happy to regain my freedom, but I also feel sad for leaving my country," said Alfredo Pulido López, who was sentenced to 14 years in jail in 2003.

Nepal

CEHURDES condemns killing of media worker, demands action against culprits

Radio Tulsipur FM Chairman Devi Prasad Dhital 'Hemraj' was returning from his home village when he was attacked and fatally shot by a group of armed people.

Azerbaijan

Human rights defender harassed for publishing report on press violations

The deputy police chief and deputy prosecutor warned Khalid Agaliyev against "damaging Azerbaijan's image" in his report.

Pakistan

Low intensity blasts in two Lahore internet cafés

Police closed all internet cafés in the city following the blasts.

Egypt

Pro-democracy activist sentenced to three months in prison

ANHRI views the sentencing of Ahmed Doma as a clear message from the government aimed at oppressing advocates of democracy.

Venezuela

IAPA protests possible takeover of Globovisión by government

President Hugo Chavez announced details of how the state will become part owner of Globovisión, stating that his government will control 45.8% of the stock in the television station.

Turkey

Journalists attacked while covering demonstrations

The Dicle news agency reported that a plainclothes police officer instigated an attack by a group of demonstrators on two of its journalists.

Turkey

Journalist charged for criticising handling of murder case

Journalist Cengiz Çandar is facing a prison sentence for criticising the fact that a witness in the Hrant Dink murder case was not brought to court for a hearing.

Azerbaijan

Authorities say imprisoned journalist will not be freed regardless of appeal outcome

Regardless of the ECHR's Grand Chamber decision, Eynulla Fatullayev will not be released without a favourable ruling from Azerbaijan's Supreme Court.

Turkey

Website banned

Access to the sanliurfa.com website was banned because of news relating to the deputy governor of Şanliurfa and associated reader comments.

Azerbaijan

Journalists harassed by Presidential Administration guards

The journalists were detained by the guards as they were taking pictures and filming a protest by residents who had suffered damages from floods.

India

IFJ mourns death of journalist fatally injured in assassination attempt on politician

"Vijay Pratap's death is a serious loss for journalism and shows how danger often lurks for conscientious professionals in the most unforeseen quarters," says IFJ.

Thailand

Self-regulatory body censors TV ad on political conflict

The Thai Television Station Joint Censorship Committee recently banned a TV ad that featured the violent events in Bangkok in May saying that the commercial might spark another round of conflict, media reports said.

Venezuela

New censorship office created by Chavez threatens government critics, free flow of information

The new decree would allow the president to block discussion of topics that are inconvenient for his government, Human Rights Watch said.

Turkey

Journalists acquitted of charges related to online content

Ali Baris Kurt and Mehmet Nuri Kokcuoglu were on trial for comments they made defending conscientious objection.

Tunisia

Website blocked before its official launch

A message from journalist AlFahim Boukadous's wife, which was published on the site, may have led to the blocking, ANHRI said.

Turkey

Journalist faces up to three years in prison for "insulting" defendant in court case

In a December 2008 article, Nazli Ilicak reported that a defendant in the Ergenekon trial was allegedly responsible for a military commander's murder.

Venezuela

IPYS Venezuela responds to campaign initiated against it by government

IPYS Venezuela noted that it has not and will not carry out programmes that are requested by third parties, or that do not correspond to the institutional aims of the organisation.

Kosovo (Serbia)

Bomb attack on radio journalist's home

An explosive device was thrown in the courtyard of Caslav Milisavljevic's home, but fortunately no one was hurt.

Guinea

Radio journalist stabbed by armed men

"Mansaré was probably a victim of an action carried out by persons hostile to his reports; it is a possible settling of scores," according to a colleague.

Mexico

Immigration officials assault photographer, confiscate his equipment

Irineo Mújica Arzate was covering the detention of undocumented workers who were travelling to the United States.

Sri Lanka

Death threats to journalist's family

Gamini Pushpakumara was summarily dismissed from his employment after presidential elections in January and has since left his home town of Horana for safety reasons.

Nigeria

Kidnapped journalists released

The four journalists and their driver were abducted by armed gunmen who robbed them of their possessions before releasing them.

Singapore

British journalist accused of contempt of court, released on bail

The complaint brought against Alan Shadrake consists of a series of biased and malicious allegations, according to RSF.

Bolivia

Journalists assaulted by mob during police operation

Camera operator Johnny Bazán had to be taken to the emergency ward of a medical center after being hit in the head.

Ghana

News editor charged for "publishing false information"

Ato Kwamena Dadzie, news editor of Joy FM, was charged for refusing to reveal the station's sources of information for a 5 July news item.

Côte d'Ivoire

Jailed trio charged; ailing reporter on hunger strike

Managing editor Stéphane Guédé, news editor Théophile Kouamouo and editor-in-chief Saint-Claver Oula of the daily "Le Nouveau Courrier" could face up to 10 years in prison.

Turkey

Prosecutor drops criminal case against journalist

In a controversial article, writer Yilmaz Ozdil had commented on an attack against a Kurdish politician.

Mexico

Journalist injured during car bomb explosion in Ciudad Juárez

Luis Hernández Núñez, a XEJTV Canal 5 camera operator, was injured when a bomb exploded near a federal police convoy.

Cuba

Ninth released Cuban journalist arrives in Spain

Mijail Bárzaga Lugo was a reporter for the independent news agency Agencia Noticiosa Cubana before his arrest in March 2003.

Burundi

Online journalist faces life in prison on treason charge

Jean-Claude Kavumbagu was arrested over commentary critical of the country's security forces.

Venezuela

Colombian journalists detained by Venezuelan police

The journalists were reporting on an event in the town of El Nula, in Venezuela, when they were arrested for not having the proper documentation.

Greece

Investigative reporter gunned down in Athens

Sokratis Giolias, director of the private radio station Thema 98.9 and contributor to the popular online news blog Troktikos, was about to publish results of an investigation into corruption.

Cambodia

Authorities ban two books deemed critical of government

The education minister requested the banning of two review books by author Pen Puthsphea because of alleged criticism of the government contained in them.

Tunisia

Copies of opposition newspaper confiscated

Members of the Progressive Democratic Party and newspaper readers were surprised to find "AlMowqef" weekly missing from distribution outlets.

Mauritania

Police detain reporter for several hours

Mohammed Ould Abdel Latif, a reporter with the privately-owned "El Hayat", was arrested while interviewing traders about the police's alleged involvement in tax collection.

China

IFJ urges authorities to lift new bans on newspapers

The Central Propaganda Department issued an order forbidding local city newspapers from publishing negative articles prepared by newspapers in other provinces.

Palestine / Israel

MADA condemns attacks against journalists covering protests

Israeli forces threw tear gas and sound bombs at a group of journalists covering peaceful protest marches near Bethlehem.

Panama

Retired journalist freed after being held for 19 days

Carlos Núñez was arrested after being convicted in absentia as a result of a libel suit brought against him 10 years ago.

Thailand

Government shuts down 26 community radio stations

In Ubon Ratchathani, some 200 officials showed up to shut down a community radio station, while in Chiang Mai up to 500 officials were deployed to close down another station.

Singapore

British author arrested, charged with defamation over book on death penalty

Alan Shadrake, who was in the city state to promote his book, "Once a Jolly Hangman: Singapore Justice in the Dock", was arrested and is facing charges of contempt of court.

Malaysia

Publications crackdown targets opposition political parties

"Malaysia's leaders hardly ever miss a chance to harass or shut down opposition papers by invoking national unity or public order, or claiming that official secrets are being revealed," Human Rights Watch said.

India

IFJ urges action after two media offices attacked

A mob of 3,000 people attacked the Headlines Today building in Delhi and the Zee 24 Taas studio in Kolhapur was ransacked during a broadcast on a border dispute.

Sudan

Court imposes prison sentences on three "Rai Al Shaab" journalists

Abuzar Al Amin, Ashraf Abdelaziz et Altahir Abugawhara Ibrahim were sentenced to jail terms ranging from two to five years on charges of "publishing incorrect information" and "attacking the state with a view to undermining the constitutional system".

China

As Internet controls increase, Freedom House calls for urgent international response

The interruption of four major micro-blog services further highlights the Communist Party's intent to control the Internet, says Freedom House.

Venezuela

Governor threatens to sue television station

The Sucre state governor issued the threat in reaction to a news story that, according to him, linked government agencies to the discovery of thousands of kilos of rotten chickens in a garbage dump.

Cuba

IPI's Cuban "Justice Denied" journalist Omar Rodriguez Saludes freed, lands in Madrid

Rodriguez's arrival in Spain brings to at least seven the number of journalists who have travelled there after being released from Cuban prisons.

Côte d'Ivoire

Prosecutor detains three journalists over sources

Stéphane Guédé, Théophile Kouamouo, and Saint-Claver Oula were arrested for refusing to disclose sources for an investigative report detailing the results of a government probe into corruption in the coffee and cocoa export trade.

Palestine

MADA concerned about deterioration of media freedoms in the Gaza Strip

In early July, MADA registered several violations of media rights, including detentions, censorship and travel restrictions.

Tonga

Media freedom threatened as elections loom

The communications minister's mention of plans to legislate print media controls "must be fully exposed and debated in a free and open media environment," says PFF.

Philippines

Volunteer reporter survives attack by gunmen

A police task force has been formed to look into the possible motives behind the attempted murder of a reporter for DwEB radio station in Camarines Sur province.

Pakistan

Indian film featuring Bin Laden look-alike banned

The Central Board of Film Censors banned the showing of the comedy "Tere Bin Laden" (Without You Laden) fearing that it could spark terrorist attacks.

China

IFJ commends journalist threatened for report on floods

Journalist Liu Jianfeng received a threatening note after he reported on his blog that people had drowned during floods in Jiangxi.

Côte d'Ivoire

Newspaper fined for publishing opinion poll results

The National Press Council imposed a US$6,000 fine on Regie Cyclone Company, publishers of the pro-government daily"Le Temps".

Singapore

Government bans yet another film by director Martyn See

See's video about the detention of Dr. Lim Hock Siew was deemed "contrary to public interest".

Venezuela

Ruling party spokespersons threaten free expression organisations

The ruling party representatives alleged that IPYS Venezuela and Espacio Público are members of a network of Venezuelan media outlets and journalists financed by the United States.

Ghana

Journalist briefly detained, manages to escape

Dauda Mohammed was reportedly abducted by unidentified men for photographing a private mansion of former president Jerry John Rawlings.

Saudi Arabia

Charges against rights activist frivolous, says Human Rights Watch

Human Rights Watch has seen a copy of Shaikh Mikhlif bin Dahham al-Shammari's prison file, which lists "annoying others" as the charge against him.

Saudi Arabia

ANHRI concerned over professor's description of journalists as "soldiers of Satan"

Professor Abdel Rahman AlBarrak described journalists as "soldiers of Satan" owing to his expectation that they would be critical of his call for women to cover their faces.

Venezuela

Bodyguards for mayor and governor assault journalist

The incident took place when journalist Danilo Vergara was interviewing participants in an event being held to honour a local musician in the city of Maracaibo.

Turkey

ECHR orders Turkey to compensate journalists

The court said Turkey had illegally limited the freedom of expression of two magazine editors and must pay them US$6,700 each.

Pakistan

Media organisations protest anti-media resolution passed by Punjab Assembly

The assembly resolution condemned "sections of the media" for their "irresponsible behaviour" that could have a "negative impact on the future of democracy and rule of law."

Venezuela

Twitter users formally charged, banned from posting messages

Luis Enrique Acosta and Carmen Cecilia Nares were formally charged with "spreading false news" with the aim of destabilising the banking system and damaging the economy.

Kyrgyzstan

Security agents raid television station, interrogate director

The newsroom of the independent Uzbek-language broadcaster Osh TV in the southern Kyrgyz city of Osh was raided by armed agents of the Kyrgyz security service.

Indonesia

IFJ welcomes successful mediation of dispute between police forces and magazine

"Tempo" magazine featured an illustration showing a uniformed policeman with piggy banks on its cover.

Colombia

Progress made in investigations into murders of three journalists

The Colombian Attorney General's Office has taken some steps forward in solving the murders of journalists Jaime Rengifo Revero, Jaime Garzón Forero and Guillermo Cano Isaza.

Greece

Journalist on trial over article about Greek volunteers' role in Bosnian massacre

A criminal complaint was filed against journalist Takis Michas in July 2009.

Venezuela

Court orders journalist's release

Journalist Leocenis García had been detained without trial in the Tocuyito Prison for two years and two months.

United States / Colombia

CPJ urges Clinton to reconsider journalist Hollman Morris's visa denial

The denial, based on a "terrorist activities" provision of the Patriot Act, is unsupported by any available evidence and may be based on misleading information provided by Colombian authorities.

Panama

Government reportedly tries to expel Spanish journalist

Paco Gómez Nadal says the authorities are hounding not only him but also the country's journalists in general.

Yemen

Freelance journalist held overnight by intelligence agents

Abdulelah Shai was interrogated over comments to Al-Jazeera about Al-Qaeda.

Cuba

Six journalists released, 16 to follow

Their release follows talks between the Cuban government, the Catholic Church and the Spanish foreign minister, during which Cuba reportedly pledged to release 52 dissidents jailed in 2003 over the coming months.

Kuwait

Journalist acquitted; activist released

ANHRI believes that the court was right in its decision to release the journalist and the activist as they were only exercising their legitimate right to free expression.

Turkey

Singer sentenced to 10 months in prison for statements made at concert

Cevdet Bağca was sentenced for speaking about people allegedly connected to the PKK at a concert in the city of Siirt.

Paraguay

SPP concerned over censorship in Ciudad del Este

Two radio programmes were taken off the air, one journalist was dismissed and another journalist was forced to resign.

Kashmir (India)

Assault undermines claim of restored press rights in Kashmir, says IFJ

Journalist Riyaz Masroor was attacked by police while on his way to collect a curfew pass from the state government's Information Department.

Iran

Seven years after Zahra Kazemi’s death in detention, impunity continues

"Those responsible for the death of the Canadian journalist have enjoyed complete impunity, thanks in part to the silence and passivity of the international bodies that are supposed to protect human rights," RSF said.

Russia

CPJ calls on authorities to disclose information on Klebnikov murder

"Forbes Russia" editor Paul Klebnikov was gunned down outside his Moscow office in 2004.

Syria

Two journalists facing military court trial

CPJ called on authorities to drop criminal defamation charges against investigative journalists Bassam Ali and Suhaila Ismail.

Senegal

Minister's loyalists assault journalist, threaten him with death

The attack followed an article Najib Sagna wrote about Deputy Minister of Justice and Human Rights Coumba Gaye.

Nigeria

Gunmen abduct journalists, demand US$1.6 million ransom

The journalists were on a bus on their way back from a Nigerian Union of Journalists meeting when kidnappers seized them at gunpoint.

Russia

ARTICLE 19 condemns conviction of art curators

Andrei Yerofeev and Yuri Samodurov, who staged an exhibition titled "Forbidden Art 2006" featuring censored Soviet and post-Soviet art works, were convicted by a Moscow court.

Liberia

Senator threatens lives of newspaper staff

The threat was issued in the senator's offices, where a "National Chronicle" reporter had gone to get his side of a story linking his political party to a fraudulent party listing.

Kazakhstan

Imprisoned journalist goes on hunger strike

Ramazan Yesergepov launched a hunger strike to protest his unlawful imprisonment as well as the failure of the OSCE to pay attention to rights violations in Kazakhstan.

Mexico

Multimedios media group targeted in grenade attack in Monterrey

The offices of the AW Noticias radio station were attacked by an unidentified individual who threw a grenade at the main entrance to the station.

China

Journalist assaulted while reporting on building's collapse

Lin Feng was reporting on the accident in which three people died and 10 were seriously injured in Fuzhou's Cangshan District.

Mexico

Radio journalist found dead in Nuevo León; cameraman killed in Chihuahua

Marco Aureliano Martínez Tijerina's body was found a day after he was kidnapped; Guillermo Alcaraz Trejo was shot outside the "Omnia" magazine offices while he was waiting for his girlfriend.

Ukraine

New law will prevent journalists from publishing personal information

Journalists will be able to collect personal information but will not be allowed to publish it until the person in question gives consent.

Rwanda

Editor arrested after criticising Kagame government

Agnès Uwimana was taken into custody over allegations that her paper had published stories "inciting the public to disobey", and "articles related to division and ethnicity".

The Gambia

Four years on, journalist Chief Ebrima Manneh still "missing"

The reporter for the Banjul-based pro-government newspaper "Daily Observer" has been missing for four years.

Sri Lanka

One year on, independent news website remains blocked

RSF calls on the authorities to stop blocking Lanka News Web.

Russia

A year later, no prosecution in Estemirova murder

The investigation into the killing of leading human rights defender Natalia Estemirova has yielded no tangible results.

Thailand

Independent news website to close down message board due to restrictive online environment

The website's executive director said they will close down the message board because the media and posters could be accused of threatening national security.

Serbia

Adopted law on electronic communications a threat to freedom of expression, says IPI

The new law would create a database of citizens' personal information and security forces would be able to view it without the need for prior permission.

Palestine

Authorities bar three West Bank dailies from circulating in Gaza Strip

The chairman of the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate demanded that authorities in the West Bank and Gaza avoid involving the media in the political divisions between Fatah and Hamas.

United States

Soldier charged for leaking video showing US army helicopter attack

Bradley Manning was accused of leaking a video of a US army helicopter attack in Baghdad in which two employees of the Reuters news agency were killed.

Turkey

Blocking of YouTube maintained for dubious reasons

An Ankara court refused to rescind a court order blocking access to 44 IP addresses that offered alternative ways to access the Google-owned video-sharing website.

Turkey

Journalist receives suspended prison sentence

"Star" newspaper publications director Mustafa Karaalioglu was sentenced based on an accusation that he insulted the Constitutional Court.

Sudan

Authorities shut down three newspapers

The move comes shortly after the government re-imposed security oversight of the country's newspapers.

Kashmir (India)

Blaming the messenger no solution to Kashmir disturbances, says IFJ

The curfew that started in June 2010 was extended to cover the movement of all civilians, and word was put out that press passes would no longer be honoured.

Burma

Media outlets expect drop in junta propaganda

Burmese publications will no longer be required to print military junta propaganda, according to statements made by editors and the state censor.

Cuba

Church says government will release political prisoners

The Catholic Church, which has been negotiating for the release of political prisoners, said five would be released immediately, with 47 freed over a three- to four-month period.

Venezuela

Public prosecutor requests warrant for arrest of Globovisión shareholder

President Hugo Chavez said the Globovisión television station is being used as part of a media campaign against him.

Indonesia

Police file criminal defamation charges against magazine

"Tempo" magazine published images of a police officer with piggy banks to accompany an article titled "Fat bank accounts of police officers".

Iraq

Kurdish journalist threatened with death for denouncing corruption

Shwan Ahmed's articles described the workings of a vast system of corruption, nepotism and embezzlement allegedly created by leading figures.

Azerbaijan

Student journalist's appeal of court decision against him rejected

An appellate court has upheld a previous decision rejecting a lawsuit by Elmin Badalov against his university after he was expelled for reasons possibly linked to his writings.

Belarus

Authorities step up Internet restrictions, harassment of online journalists

The police are using interrogation and seizure of equipment to harass Internet users and online journalists, while new legislation is reinforcing control of Internet usage and restrictions on online free expression.

France

IFJ condemns appointment process of France Télévisions head

President Sarkozy announced his nomination of the new France Télévisions head.

Tunisia

Ruling party henchman files complaint against journalist after assaulting him

Mouldi Zouabi faces charges of "aggravated violence and public insults" against his attacker.

Egypt

Blogger remains in detention despite release of other prisoners of conscience

Although the Egyptian government recently released several prisoners of conscience, the blogger and novelist Mossad Abu Fagr was not among them.

Egypt

Two police officers who beat activist to death to be tried on torture charge

Khaled Mohammed Said was murdered after posting a video online showing police officers sharing the proceeds from a drug deal.

United States

Pentagon tightens rules on military interaction with media

The US military has "grown lax" in recent months and often contravened established rules and procedures, warned Defence Secretary Robert Gates.

Europe and Central Asia

IFJ calls on European Union to strike better balance between freedom of expression and privacy rights

Legislators were urged to improve the balance between the right to free expression and an individual's right to privacy when reviewing European data protection legislation.

Sri Lanka

IFJ appeals to government to put a stop to media intimidation

IFJ called for an investigation after a threatening letter was sent to the Colombo office of Lanka-e-News.

Mexico

Journalist assassinated in Michoacán

Hugo Alfredo Olivera Cartas was found dead early in the morning of 6 July 2010.

Azerbaijan

Mediaforum employee harassed during demonstration

The incident occurred during a 3 July protest march by the Musavat Party and the Union for the Sake of Democracy.

Mauritania

National Assembly adopts bill to liberalise airwaves and loosen governmental control on state-owned media

A government representative said the law would liberalise the electronic media and eliminate the state's monopoly over public media.

India

IFJ mourns killed journalist, calls for inquiry

Hem Chandra Pandey was reportedly killed in an armed encounter in which police assassinated a leader of the banned Communist Party of India (Maoist).

Azerbaijan

Imprisoned editor sentenced to an additional two and a half years in prison

In what are believed to be politically motivated charges, a criminal case was launched against Eynulla Fatullayev after heroin was allegedly found on his person in prison.

Tunisia

Journalist Fahem Boukaddous sentenced to four years in prison

Boukaddous was prosecuted in relation to video reports the journalist made in 2008 for el Hiwar el Tounissi TV concerning demonstrations in the Gafsa mining region.

Turkey

Sociologist, lawyer face prison sentence for article on Kurdish self-determination

Sociologist Ismail Besikçi is accused of "spreading propaganda for the PKK", the outlawed Kurdistan Workers Party.

Ecuador

IAPA assails official anti-press propaganda campaign

IAPA condemned a governmental TV ad campaign aired during World Cup games against independent news media and in support of a controversial planned communication law.

Indonesia

Molotov cocktails thrown at magazine's office

The attack came on the heels of a "Tempo" cover story on the suspicious bank accounts of several high-ranking police officers.

Turkey

Journalists on trial for reporting on politicians' secret conversations

Deniz Yildirim and Ufuk Akkaya have already spent eight months in detention after being charged with "membership in a terrorist organisation".

Pakistan

Police assault reporter in Lahore

Muhammad Akram, a reporter for the "Daily Times", was beaten by police officers while filming a protest and suffered injuries and bruises.

Thailand

Royal pardon for Internet user serving 10-year sentence for lèse majesté

Suvicha Thakhor was serving a 10-year jail sentence on a lèse majesté charge for allegedly using software to modify photos of the royal family before posting them online.

Mexico

Grenade launched against newspaper building

Unknown assailants launched a grenade against the offices of "Zócalo" newspaper, in Piedras Negras, Coahuila.

China

Two Polish journalists "blacklisted", denied visas

Maria Kruczkowska and Konrad Godlewski were being denied entry into China because they are associated with pieces of journalism critical of the authorities.

Egypt

"El-Wafd" journalists fined; "El-Shaab" editor sentenced to one year in prison

The North Giza Criminal Court fined two journalists from "El-Wafd" newspaper in a defamation case filed against them by members of the Council of State.

Turkey

TV station censored after programme guest comments on Armenian genocide

One edition of the "One to One" programme was banned after writer Sevan Nisanyan appeared as a guest on the show.

India

Editor's arrest underlines need for defamation law reform, says IFJ

T.P. Nandakumar was arrested on defamation charges after he posted an article about an Indian businessman on his magazine's website.

Bahrain

Reporter charged with violating gag order

Article 246 of Bahrain's penal code states that violations of gag orders concerning "ongoing investigations" may be punished by up to one year in prison.

Turkey

Politician sentenced to one year in jail for statements made on TV

Mahmut Alınak was charged with "spreading propaganda for the PKK" after he allegedly instigated the Kurdish people to civil disobedience in a program on ROJ TV.

Colombia

Colombian intelligence official held in journalist's murder

"We hail this decision as an important stride in the still unsolved murder of Jaime Garzón," said CPJ.

China

IFJ denounces punishment of journalist for publicising ban

Zhang Junyan, a journalist at "Southern Metropolis Daily", was fined about US$220 by his employer and demoted from his position as an intermediate level journalist to a junior level journalist.

United Arab Emirates

Authorities block access to online magazine

"The authorities are using illegal means to achieve their ends," RSF said.

Turkey

Editors facing prison sentences over Ergenekon reporting

Semra Pelek and Mustafa Dolu have been charged with "violating the secrecy of an investigation" and "attempting to influence a fair trial".

Guinea

Authorities promulgate two new progressive media laws

One media law decriminalises press offences and the other creates a new media regulatory body.

Syria

Growing crackdown on journalists and government critics

RSF calls for the immediate and unconditional release of journalists Ali Abdallah and Kamal Sheikhou ben Hussein, and the withdrawal of the charges against Souhayla Ismail and Bassem Ali.

Georgia

Reporter accuses Georgian authorities of trying to poison him during NATO meetings in Brussels

Giorgy Popkhadze said that Georgian journalists and human rights activists had recently visited him, bringing materials on repression and killings in Georgia.

Hungary

Ruling party announces postponement of media package elements criticised by journalists

IPI has called for withdrawal of the current package, saying the initiative should preserve media independence and be implemented only after conferring with all stakeholders.

Somalia

Two journalists arrested, one wounded in Mogadishu

During fighting between government forces and Islamic extremists, a cameraman and reporter were arrested after taking photos of a journalist who had been hit by shrapnel.

Kuwait

Political activist fined, sentenced to three months in jail

Khaled Al Fadala was convicted of "insult" and "libel" after the prime minister filed a complaint against him.

Somalia

"New York Times" correspondent facing arrest over child soldier interviews flees Somalia

Mohammed Ibrahim fled to Kenya after security agents tried to arrest him several times.

Bolivia

Demonstrators attack journalists

Supporters of the ousted mayor of Sucre struck, hurled insults and threw sticks and firecrackers at three Canal 7 Televisión Boliviana journalists.

Iran

ARTICLE 19 fears imminent execution of political prisoner

Zeinab Jalalian was arrested in 2008 because she allegedly wrote and created posters for a Kurdish nationalist group.

Nepal

Radio journalist abducted, unconfirmed reports suggest he has been freed

Keshav Bohara was abducted by an unknown group in the mid-western district of Pyuthan.

Malaysia

CIJ criticises government agency's interrogation of journalists

CIJ says the Securities Commission interrogations of journalists regarding a possible corporate misgovernance case demonstrate the need for greater protection of the media.

Turkey

Kurdish politician under investigation for issuing call to refuse military service

Under the Turkish Criminal Code, Bengi Yildiz could face between six months and two years in prison for "discouraging people from performing military service".