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IFEX Member Campaigns 2009

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Brazil

First national conference on communications held in Brasilia

The conference brought together 1,684 delegates to discuss how to improve freedom of expression in the country.

Middle East and North Africa

Participants at ARTICLE 19 event map out freedom of information agenda

A two day event in Amman, Jordan brought together activists who shared initiatives from across the region.

Sri Lanka

IFJ mission identifies key challenges for media after war's end

IFJ has released the report of a press freedom mission to Sri Lanka, identifying key challenges for the country's journalists and media.

Libya

IFJ backs call for media reforms

IFJ's affiliates in Libya called for new legislation to guarantee freedom of information, enhance the status of journalists and increase transparency and open government.

Americas

Newspaper readers join IAPA anti-impunity initiative

Through banners in online newspapers, IAPA invites newspaper readers to take part in its campaign demanding justice in cases of murdered journalists.

Awards / International

Imprisoned Iranian journalist awarded Golden Pen of Freedom

The award was given to Ahmad Zeid-Abadi, an Iranian journalist and political analyst who was imprisoned following Iran's disputed presidential election in June 2009.

Awards / International

Freedom House congratulates Memorial on human rights award

Freedom House congratulates Oleg Orlov, Lyudmila Alexeyeva and Sergei Kovalev of the human rights group Memorial on winning the 2009 Sakharov Prize for Freedom of Thought.

Afghanistan

UN official praises Norwegian PEN for work on Kambakhsh case

The news of the release of Afghan journalist Sayed Pervez Kambakhsh was made public in early September 2009.

Middle East and North Africa

ARTICLE 19 working in partnership to enhance free expression across Middle East

Journalists, lawyers and human rights activists from Egypt, Jordan, Yemen, Lebanon and Saudi Arabia met to map a way forward for free speech in the Middle East.

International

IFJ calls for "new mindset" over media accountability, future of journalism

Participants at an IFJ workshop said governments must give priority to creating conditions "that ensure free media and independent journalism."

Joint action - Americas

Press organisations concerned at widespread violence, repressive actions against press in Cuba and Venezuela

The Global Coordinating Committee of Press Freedom Organizations expressed its concern during its semi-annual meeting in New York.

International

Day of the Imprisoned Writer 2009: Round up of PEN Centre activities

The activities centred around five emblematic cases from Cameroon, Iran, China, Russia and Mexico.

Palestine

On Human Rights Day, MADA calls on international community to speak out against attacks on Palestinian journalists

At a time when the world celebrates the 61st anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, Palestinian journalists continue to be victims of various attacks.

Philippines

IFJ international mission demands justice for massacre

The mission report raises concerns over the commitment and capacity of authorities to guarantee a full and independent prosecution of the killers.

International

Copenhagen Climate Conference: Call to Action to protect environmental journalists

At the UN Conference on Climate Change, 14 press freedom organisations - including IFEX members RSF, IFJ, IPI, MFWA, SEAPA and PPF - called on world leaders to protect environmental journalists.

International

Freedom House launches campaign to defend freedom of expression

The campaign is in response to a growing crackdown on freedom of expression around the world and in honor of U.N. Human Rights Day.

Awards / International

NUSOJ receives French Republic's human rights prize

NUSOJ was declared the winner of the "Liberty, Equality, Fraternity" human rights prize in recognition of its courageous defense of press freedom.

Awards / International

Iraqi journalist wins Gebran Tueni Award

Asos Hardi has been awarded the 2009 Gebran Tueni Award, the annual WAN-IFRA prize that honours an editor or publisher from the Arab region.

Awards / Philippines

SEAPA executive director receives award for free expression work

SEAPA's Roby Alampay accepted the award while in Manila as part of a mission looking into the massacre that resulted in the deaths of 30 journalists.

Iran

ARTICLE 19 launches Azad Tribune - an online platform to encourage free expression

On International Human Rights Day, ARTICLE 19 launched an interactive website to encourage networking among bloggers, journalists and activists in Iran.

China

IFJ Press Freedom in China Campaign bulletin - December 2009

IFJ Asia-Pacific's monthly Press Freedom in China Campaign e-bulletin.

Côte d'Ivoire

RSF reports on mission to Côte d'Ivoire

RSF visited Abidjan from 9 to 11 November 2009 to evaluate the current media situation and recommend measures to guarantee press freedom ahead of upcoming elections.

Venezuela

IFJ says Chavez "war on media" is disastrous for democracy

At the end of a two-day visit, IFJ General Secretary Aidan White called on the government to end its campaign against independent journalism.

Bangladesh

Failure to solve past journalist murders hinders future press freedom development, says IPI

IPI's latest mission offered an opportunity to undertake a first assessment of the sitting, elected government of Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina.

Joint action - Philippines

Coalition of media groups calls for independent probe into massacre of journalists

The November 23 Movement has called for justice for fellow journalists and other civilians who were abducted and slaughtered in Ampatuan, Maguindanao.

Joint action - Somalia

Twenty-six IFEX members condemn brutal suicide bombing that killed three journalists

Calling on the international community to protect Somali citizens, particularly journalists, 26 IFEX members appeal for justice following the 3 December 2009 attack that killed more than 25 people, including three journalists.

Awards / International

Glasnost Defense Foundation president awarded second annual Dana Bullen Press Freedom Advocacy Prize

Alexei K. Simonov has headed the foundation since its creation in 1991 as Russia's first independent press freedom defence organisation.

Bolivia

The government considers the press an enemy, says head of media freedom organisation

IPI interviewed media freedom campaigner Juan Javier Zeballos.

Serbia

IPI press freedom mission to Serbia

IPI is concerned that new amendments to the Law on Public Information could lead to the introduction of increased self censorship.

Honduras

Crisis for free expression deepens, note international mission participants

ARTICLE 19 and six international organisations participated in a mission to Honduras from 1 to 7 November 2009.

Awards / International

RSF-FNAC press freedom prize awarded to Israeli reporter and Chechen magazine

The prize goes to a journalist and news media outlet that have made an exceptional contribution to the defence or promotion of press freedom.

Awards / International / Pakistan

Pakistani editor receives WAN-IFRA Golden Pen of Freedom

Najam Sethi, the former editor-in-chief of the "Daily Times", was honoured for his defence and promotion of press freedom under difficult circumstances and constant personal danger.

Cambodia

Human Rights Watch submission to UN highlights free expression issues in the country

United Nations member states should express concerns about the dramatic deterioration of freedom of expression in Cambodia, Human Rights Watch said today.

Somalia

Journalists launch action plan to counter media oppression

More than 30 independent media houses signed a joined declaration calling for the establishment of a training and solidarity centre for reporters.

Joint action - Tunisia

TMG urges Tunisian government to free journalists and cease harassment

Following Taoufik Ben Brik, journalist Zouhayr Makhlouf has, in turn, been sentenced to three months in prison and a fine of 6,000 dinars.

Joint action - International

Over 30 IFEX members endorse Vienna Declaration calling on governments to respect media freedom in fight against terrorism

IPI plans to use the Vienna Declaration as a tool that can be employed around the world to rally support for freedom of expression and press freedom.

Egypt

Journalists, civil society groups call for freedom of information coalition

Attendants at a recent conference on freedom of information agreed to establish the coalition to uphold international standards of freedom of information.

Joint action - Philippines

Fifty-two IFEX members condemn massacre of journalists, call for justice

Condemning the problem of impunity in the Philippines, 52 IFEX members appeal for justice in the horrible massacre of a reported 28 journalists.

Joint action - International

Forty IFEX members call for the protection of women who exercise free speech

Forty IFEX members express solidarity with women who have been the victims of violence for exercising their free expression rights.

Venezuela

IPI completes press freedom mission to Venezuela

IPI conducted the mission to make an objective assessment of the current state of press freedom in the country.

Ethiopia

IPI fact-finding mission reports on state of press freedom

Despite positive developments, fears persist that government retains influence over media, reports IPI.

Joint action - Democratic Republic of Congo

A year later, investigation into radio journalist's murder is stalled

JED and RSF condemn the lack of action on the part of military officers in charge of the investigation.

Guinea

MFWA organises public forum on impunity

"Today in Guinea, if you invite any journalist to participate in any media discussion, he or she would not turn up for fear of being attacked by the soldiers," said a Guinean human rights lawyer during the forum.

Awards / India

IPI announces recipients of annual award

"These are the kind of stories that help shore up public sentiment in support of free speech," said the IPI India National Committee chairperson.

Egypt

ANHRI and local partner hold seminar on press freedom

Lawyers, journalists and bloggers were invited to the event, organised by ANHRI and the Cultural Committee of the Intellectual System of Advocates.

Joint action - Tunisia

Make Tunisia accountable for rights violations, TMG urges French foreign minister

In a letter to Bernard Kouchner, the TMG expressed concern over mounting free expression violations in Tunisia following recent presidential elections.

Americas

IAPA resolutions to be sent to governments throughout the Americas

Seventeen resolutions to be sent to governments throughout the Americas were adopted at the conclusion of the IAPA General Assembly.

Asia and Pacific / United States

Obama should press Asian leaders on rights, says Human Rights Watch

Human Rights Watch called on Obama to raise the lack of democratic change in Burma, restraints on freedom of expression across the region, widespread impunity for rights violations, and a weak regional human rights institution.

Awards / Palestine

Norwegian PEN to honour Palestinian journalist on Day of the Imprisoned Writer

Norwegian PEN's Ossietzky-prize for "outstanding achievements within the field of free expression" will be awarded to Palestinian journalist Mohammed Omer during the commemoration of the Day of the Imprisoned Writer.

United States

Book groups support Patriot Act reform bill in House

People are urged to contact members of the House of Representatives in support of a bill banning the government from using the Patriot Act to identify the books that people borrow or purchase.

Tibet (China)

Jailed Tibetan filmmaker appeals for help

"My trial has started. There is no good news I can share with you," wrote filmmaker Dhondup Wangchen in a letter addressed to his family.

Awards / Iran

Four journalists receive Hellman/Hammett grants

Four Iranians are among 37 writers receiving the Hellman/Hammett award, recognising their commitment to free expression and courage in the face of persecution.

China / United States

PEN calls on President Obama to stand up for free expression in China

On the eve of Barack Obama's first state visit to China, PEN American Center has sent a letter urging the president to intervene on behalf of the more than 40 writers imprisoned in that country because of their work.

China

IFJ Press Freedom in China Campaign bulletin - November 2009

IFJ Asia-Pacific's monthly Press Freedom in China Campaign e-bulletin.

North Korea

RSF calls for greater support for exiled journalists as director of Free North Korea Radio wins award

The Taiwan Foundation for Democracy said Kim Seong-Min was being awarded the prize for his "courageous defiance" of the North Korean regime.

Kenya

ARTICLE 19 submits report to United Nations Universal Periodic Review

In comments submitted to the UN Human Rights Council, ARTICLE 19 raised concerns about the failure of Kenya to respect and promote freedom of expression and freedom of information.

Afghanistan / United Kingdom

British probe urged in death of Afghan reporter

In a letter to Prime Minister Gordon Brown, CPJ called for a comprehensive investigation into the September 2009 military operation to rescue two journalists kidnapped by Taliban forces in Afghanistan.

International

Freedom House launches web feature on fall of Berlin Wall

In honour of the 20th anniversary of the fall of the Berlin Wall, Freedom House highlights the changes in freedom in the former communist world that followed the seminal event.

Russia

Government must respect recommendations of UN Human Rights Committee on free expression, says ARTICLE 19

The Committee expressed its concern "at the alarming incidence of threats, violent assaults and murders of journalists and human rights defenders."

Sudan

ARTICLE 19 launches its state-by-state media assessment

An ARTICLE 19-led Consortium launched a report in Juba, South Sudan, which outlines the dire situation faced by the media at a critical time in the country's political history.

Somalia

Stakeholders push for amendments to Media Law

Journalists, media owners, lawyers, government officials, members of civil society and parliamentarians held meetings to discuss amendments to the Media Law.

International

International PEN Congress issues eleven resolutions on free expression

WiPC held a day-long session at the Congress, at which pressing issues of repression of writers and writings were discussed.

Joint action - Russia

Natalya Estemirova case must be solved, say CPJ, PEN American Center

CPJ and Pen American Center call on the Russian president to ensure that both Estemirova's assassins and those who sent them to her doorstep are brought to justice.

Awards / Bulgaria

Courage in journalism prize awarded to Bulgarian journalist

Lidiya Pavlova will receive the award, which is being presented for the first time, for her courageous reporting on violence and corruption.

Mauritania

President meets with RSF delegation in official visit to Paris

"My aim is to encourage press freedom and freedom of expression for all Mauritanians," Mohamed Ould Abdel Aziz told RSF.

Morocco

Tension affects news conference in Casablanca in support of Moroccan media

"RSF came to express its support for Moroccan journalists, who are currently being subjected to an avalanche of lawsuits and prosecutions," said secretary-general Jean-François Julliard.

Awards / Canada

CJFE honours Paul Pritchard with the first CJFE Citizen Journalism Award

The award was presented to the man who shot the video that changed how tasers are used by police departments in Canada.

Joint action - Uzbekistan

EU fails human rights victims, say Human Rights Watch and RSF

IFEX members Human Rights Watch and RSF say the EU decision to drop sanctions would severely damage the credibility of its human rights policy worldwide.

Joint action - International

ARTICLE 19 joins 26 other human rights groups to express concern over new religious defamation submission

ARTICLE 19 joins 26 other human rights groups, including IFEX members ANHRI, BCHR, CIHRS and Human Rights Watch, in an open letter expressing concerns about recent submissions on religious defamation brought before the UN.

International

CPJ unveils new database of journalists killed in action

Drawing on years of research, the database offers interactive maps and timelines, along with statistical breakdowns by year, country and cause of death.

Joint action - Africa

Organisations say EU should provide more support for media freedom

The organisations called for consideration of proposals, including the institution of a peer review mechanism for media freedom.

Lebanon

IPI completes press freedom mission, urges respect for editorial independence and credibility

During its four-day press freedom mission, IPI held discussions with leading editors and journalists, as well as political leaders and government officials.

Tunisia

Election campaign "impossible for opposition media," says RSF following fact-finding visit to Tunis

RSF travelled to Tunis to verify media coverage of the campaign and opposition parties' access to public media outlets.

Awards

CJFE honours two journalists and Russian news outlet with 12th annual Press Freedom Awards

Reporter Jila Baniyaghoub of Iran, the Russian news outlet "Novaya Gazeta" and Canadian writer Terry Gould will be recognised by CJFE.

Joint action - Morocco

Thirty-one IFEX members and 24 other organisations condemn harsh crackdown on press freedom

While calling on the Moroccan government to stop the current crackdown against press freedom, 31 IFEX members and others condemn the recent arrests and harassment of journalists and independent press.

Iran

RSF announces launch of new website for media professionals as exodus of journalists continues

The organisation has helped launch a multimedia platform for disseminating information about the media and journalists, and for collecting articles, photos and videos provided by journalists themselves.

Belarus

International media and press freedom organisations demand radical reform of media

International media and press freedom organisations have issued a report entitled "For Free and Fair Media in Belarus".

Joint action - International

Twenty-three IFEX members and other organisations raise concerns about proposed mechanisms to combat racial intolerance

23 IFEX members and other organisations call for the defeat of proposed legal mechanisms and say that attempts to address racial or religious hatred should conform to standards of international law.

Russia

ARTICLE 19 urges the UN Human Rights Committee to hold Russia accountable

In a report submitted to the Committee, ARTICLE 19 provides detailed evidence of a range of abuses of the right to freedom of expression in Russia.

Russia

Following mission to Russia, IPI warns impunity still gravest obstacle to press freedom

IPI called on the federal government to ensure that law enforcement agencies conduct conclusive investigations into assaults and murders of journalists.

United States

Marking World Day Against the Death Penalty, RSF releases interview with imprisoned journalist's lawyer

Lawyer Robert R. Bryan discusses the Mumia Abu-Jamal case and the current situation of the death penalty in the United States.

China

IFJ Press Freedom in China Campaign bulletin - October 2009

IFJ Asia-Pacific's monthly Press Freedom in China Campaign e-bulletin.

International

"War on Words" Conference on terrorism, media and the law ends with discussion on Draft Declaration of Principles

The conference was organised by IPI and the Salzburg-based Center for International Legal Studies (CILS).

Russia

IPI delegation raises issue of impunity, self-censorship with Human Rights Ombudsman

In the first leg of its Russia advocacy mission, the IPI delegation met with various media outlets.

Italy

IFJ hails "momentous success" in demonstration for "Right to Know, Duty to Inform"

Between 150,000 and 300,000 participants turned up for the massive protest to condemn the threats to press freedom following Berlusconi's recent onslaught on the media.

Somalia

NUSOJ welcomes UNHRC's decision to renew rights expert's mandate

The UN body expressed its deep concern over repeated attacks against journalists and civil society activists.

Yemen

IFJ launches ethical journalism campaign, calls for release of journalists

The launch ceremony was organised jointly with the Yemeni Journalist Syndicate and was attended by families and supporters of journalists who remain in custody.

Italy

European journalists support demonstration for freedom of information in Italy

President Berlusconi's power to intimidate journalists and muzzle the media goes beyond any acceptable limits of democracy, says IFJ president.

China

HKJA and local partner collect 1,350 signatures in support of journalists targeted in Sichuan and Xinjiang provinces

HKJA and the FCC collected 1,350 signatures in a campaign to encourage the Sichuan and Xinjiang governments to investigate attacks on journalists and respect press freedom.

Colombia

IAPA deplores delay in solving murder of journalist

Through ads published in newspapers throughout the western hemisphere, readers are invited to join the IAPA campaign "Let's Put an End to Impunity".

International

ARTICLE 19 launches model information disclosure policy for World Bank

ARTICLE 19 is calling on the World Bank to bring its policy into line with standards set out in the Global Transparency Initiative's Charter for International Financial Institutions.

Joint action - Belarus

Nine IFEX members call for reforms and the removal of restrictions on the media in the Republic of Belarus

A group of international media and press freedom organisations has called upon the Belarus authorities to bring the country's media environment into accordance with international standards.

Somalia

NUSOJ calls for UN Human Rights Council to renew mandate of Independent Expert

NUSOJ warned that failure to renew the mandate would heighten violations as rights abusers would enjoy unbridled impunity.

Joint action - West Africa

Four IFEX members, civil society groups fear Gambia proposal will prevent ECOWAS court from ruling in Saidykhan case

Groups say the Gambian government has proposed the amendments so that the Court will be weakened in its capacity to deal effectively with tyrannical governments.

International / Awards

CPJ to honour five international journalists

CPJ will honor courageous journalists from Somalia, Sri Lanka, Tunisia, and Azerbaijan with its 2009 International Press Freedom Awards.

Joint action - Burma

Burma Action Group urges UN General Assembly, ASEAN to appeal for release of political prisoners and to call for an end to human rights abuses

The Burma Action Group welcomed the recent prisoners' release while urging caution in considering this an indicator of an improved human rights situation.

Sri Lanka

FMM, media groups urge president to free Tissanayagam

(FMM/IFEX) - The publication of two articles by J.S. Tissanayagam in Sri Lanka's monthly magazine "The North Eastern" came at a price: 20 years' hard labour. The Editors' Guild of Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Working Journalists' Association, the Free Media Movement, the Newspaper Society of Sri Lanka, the Sri Lanka Muslim Media Forum, the Sri Lanka Tamil Media Alliance, the Federation of Media Employees' Trade Union and the South Asia Free Media Association (Sri Lanka Chapter) view this punishment as a near fatal blow to freedom of expression in Sri Lanka. The handing of such a punishment to Tissanayagam is symbolic of the intention of the state to stifle and terrorize the media as a whole while further entrenching fear in the people.

International

Nature: 100 photos for press freedom

RSF is also releasing a report entitled "The dangers for journalists who expose environmental issues".

Joint action - Asia and Pacific

AJI, ARTICLE 19 host regional launch of Camden Principles on Freedom of Expression and Equality

The Principles are founded on the understanding that freedom of expression and equality are mutually supporting and foundational human rights.

Joint action - Uganda

Thirty-one IFEX members call on President Museveni to lift the ban on the four radio stations and address the state of free expression

Condemning the shut-down of four radio stations and a violent crackdown on members of the press during a period recent social unrest, 31 IFEX members call on President Museveni to guard free expression rights.

Joint action - Tunisia

TMG protests as independence of Tunisian journalists' union usurped

The TMG expresses its support for the democratically elected Board of the Tunisian journalists' syndicate and vehemently denounces the use of the police and judiciary to usurp the union.

China

IFJ Press Freedom in China Campaign bulletin - September 2009

IFJ Asia-Pacific launches a monthly e-bulletin about its Press Freedom in China Campaign.

Joint action - Mexico

Four IFEX members express their position regarding the National Human Rights Commission's recommendation on crimes against journalists

Several freedom of expression organisations have said that a clear mechanism is required for implementation of the National Human Rights Commission's recommendation on crimes against journalists.

Mexico

IAPA, Mexico Supreme Court forum encourages adoption of inter-American legal standards

A judicial forum organized by the IAPA and the Supreme Court called for the application of inter-American legal standards to resolve conflicts concerning press freedom.

Central America

ARTICLE 19 and partners launch the platform of action for strengthening of freedom of expression

Human rights defenders and media professionals attending the conference "Towards a Joint Action Platform to Strengthen Freedom of Expression" adopted the first Central-American platform of action on freedom of expression.

Joint action - Burma

Twenty-one organisations, including fifteen IFEX members, condemn guilty verdict, extended detention for Aung San Suu Kyi

(SEAPA/IFEX) - The Burma Action Group, comprising 21 organisations that are members and partners of the International Freedom of Expression eXchange (IFEX), condemns the guilty verdict and 18-month extended house arrest meted out to Burmese opposition leader Aung San Suu Kyi on 11 August 2009. We join the international community in rejecting this judgment, and in demanding the immediate release of Suu Kyi, a democracy icon in Burma and the rest of the world.

Sri Lanka

Media groups condemn re-activation of Press Council Law

Several media groups wrote a letter to the Minister of Media and Information, questioning the re-activation of the controversial Press Council Law.

Somalia

Culture of impunity, safety of journalists the central themes of journalists' conference

National Somali Journalists Conference concludes with landmark decisions on professional standards, safety and democratic development of media.

Ethiopia

Anti-terrorism legislation further restricts press

In a letter to Prime Minister Meles Zenawi, CPJ expressed serious concerns about increasing restrictions on press freedom in the wake of the pending adoption of anti-terror legislation.

Joint action - Iran

Five IFEX members and numerous other organisations condemn repression ahead of International Day of Solidarity

Human rights organizations from the Arab region express utter condemnation of the brutal repression undertaken by Iranian authorities against large masses of Iranian people involved in peaceful demonstrations.

Joint action - Tunisia

IFEX-TMG calls for an end to intimidation, attacks on Tunisian journalists ahead of October elections

The Tunisia Monitoring Group (TMG) is deeply concerned that repeated calls on authorities to end the cycle of repression of human rights defenders and journalists remain unheeded.

Joint action - Cambodia

Four IFEX members, allies express concern over deteriorating free expression environment

SEAPA and its members and allies issued an open letter to Prime Minister Hun Sen, denouncing a "rapidly and palpably deteriorating environment for free expression in Cambodia."

China

Campaign for jailed Uyghur blogger

RSF is relaying the petition launched by Chinese writers and intellectuals calling for the release of Ilham Tohti.

Joint action - Sri Lanka

Violent attacks against media continue post-conflict

The members of the Press Freedom Mission, including seven IFEX members, wrote an open letter to President Mahinda Rajapaksa, expressing grave concern over the deterioration of press freedom despite the recent military victory in the country.

Joint action - Iran

One hundred prominent journalists call for release of Maziar Bahari

More than 100 prominent journalists from 47 countries sent a petition to the Iranian government calling for the immediate release of Maziar Bahari, "Newsweek"'s Tehran correspondent, who has been held without charge since June 21.

Joint action - Africa

Thirty-two IFEX members and partners raise concerns about proposed AU-EU Pan African Media Observatory Project

Thirty-two IFEX members and partners working on free expression in Africa put forward the following joint submission to the consultation process on the proposed African Union-European Union Pan African Media Observatory Project.

The Gambia

Campaign for press freedom goes global as government revokes journalists' bail

Human rights organisations and trade unions in Europe and Africa have joined the growing protest against the prosecution of seven journalists accused of sedition and defamation.

Mexico / Awards

Mexican cartoonist receives CRNI Award for Courage in Editorial Cartooning

Mario Robles has been a recognised and respected political cartoonist for over 30 years.

Mexico

CJFE calls on government to make killing a journalist a federal offence

In a letter to the Ambassador of the Republic of Mexico for Canada, CJFE calls on the Mexican government to make killing a journalist a federal offence and to ensure that the murderers of journalists are prosecuted.

Joint action - The Gambia

Six journalists released on bail, another arrested

RSF expressed relief after learning of the release on bail, on 22 June, of six journalists accused of "seditious publication" and imprisoned in Banjul.

Joint action - International

UNESCO urged to continue defending freedom of expression worldwide

Five IFEX members and one other organisation ask UNESCO to continue acting as a defender and champion of freedom of expression worldwide.

Joint action - Azerbaijan

Thirty IFEX members sign on to appeal to Parliament deploring proposed changes to NGO law

Thirty IFEX members have signed on to a joint letter to the parliamentary chair deploring the proposed changes to the Azerbaijan Republic Law on Non-governmental Organisations.

Joint action - International

States attack human rights experts at UN rights body; thirty-five organisations, including six IFEX members, express concern

Human rights organisations from every region of the world warn that recent "extraordinary attacks" by states on United Nations human rights experts at the Human Rights Council was "severely eroding the Council's legitimacy and credibility."

Joint action - Venezuela / Cuba

Cuba and Venezuela called on to stop persecution of journalists

From Paris, IAPA and other international organizations urge Latin American governments to show greater respect for press freedom.

Joint action - The Gambia

Forty-five IFEX members call for release of journalist Chief Ebrimah Manneh

Free expression advocates from around the world gathered this week in Oslo, Norway, at the IFEX General Meeting. Forty-five IFEX members signed on to the following statement, calling on The Gambian government to enforce an ECOWAS court judgement of the journalist's case.

Joint action - International

Thirty IFEX members call on governments to respect fundamental human rights of free expression and privacy of communications

Free expression advocates from around the world gathered this week in Oslo, Norway, at the IFEX General Meeting. Thirty IFEX members signed on to a resolution on the surveillance of communications and the fundamental right to protection of journalistic sources.

Joint action - International

ARTICLE 19 and CIHRS call on Human Rights Council states to protect mandate of Special Rapporteur on freedom of opinion and expression

The UN Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Frank La Rue, has come under extraordinary attack while presenting his first annual report to the eleventh session of the Human Rights Committee in Geneva on 2 June 2009.

Joint action - Sri Lanka

Thirty IFEX members call on government to protect journalists and end impunity

Free expression advocates from around the world gathered this week in Oslo, Norway, at the IFEX General Meeting. Thirty IFEX members signed on to a letter to President Mahinda Rajapaksa, calling on him to "stop the war on journalists".

Joint action - Bahrain

Forty IFEX members protest attacks on free expression

Free expression advocates from around the world gathered this week in Oslo, Norway, at the IFEX General Meeting. Forty IFEX members signed the following statement, calling on the Bahraini authorities to address recent attacks on free expression in that country.

Joint action - North Korea

Forty IFEX members appeal for diplomatic support in detained journalists' case

Free expression advocates from around the world gathered this week in Oslo, Norway, at the IFEX General Meeting. Forty IFEX members signed on to a letter calling on the international community to press for the release of journalists Euna Lee and Laura Ling.

Joint action - Azerbaijan

Thirty-seven IFEX members express concern about deterioration of free expression

Free expression advocates from around the world gathered this week in Oslo, Norway, at the IFEX General Meeting. Thirty-seven IFEX members signed on to a statement calling on the Azerbaijani authorities to address the deterioration in press freedom.

United States / Middle East and North Africa

CPJ urges President Obama to reaffirm U.S. leadership on press freedom when he speaks in Cairo

In a letter to President Obama, CPJ suggests steps that his administration can take to bring U.S. policy in the Arab and Muslim worlds in line with the U.S.'s commitment to freedom of expression.

Azerbaijan

IRFS launches 24-hour media hotline in Azerbaijan

Azerbaijani organisations the Institute for Reporters' Freedom and Safety (IRFS) and the Media Rights Institute have set up a 24-hour hotline for journalists and media groups in distress, especially those facing court cases or criminal defamation suits.

Brazil

IAPA issues call for action in murder case

IAPA called for signatures on letter to president asking him to bring those guilty of journalist's 2001 murder to justice.

Joint action - Pakistan

IFJ and RSF call on president to protect journalists in NWFP

On 26 May 2009, IFJ and RSF wrote a joint letter to President Asif Ali Zardari asking him to intervene in the case of three journalists in Peshawar, North-West Frontier Province (NWFP) who are wanted by the Taliban.

Iraq

Historic day in Baghdad as IFJ launches journalism support programme

Leaders of journalists unions from around the world travelled to Baghdad at the weekend for a conference on support for media in Iraq - the first international meeting of any kind in the city since the war began six years ago.

Yemen

Human rights organisations urge president to lift blockade on newspapers, websites

On the occasion of the 19th anniversary of Yemen's Unity Day, Egyptian human rights organizations urged Yemeni President Ali Abdullah Saleh to order the Ministry of Information to stop the siege imposed on Yemeni newspapers and remove the ban on blocked Yemeni websites.

Joint action - International

International publishers and librarians agree to enhance the debate on open access

A joint statement released today by the International Publishers Association, the International Association of Scientific Technical and Medical (STM) Publishers, and the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) calls for a more rational, evidence based debate on open access.

Pakistan

Emergency funds for journalists forced to flee Swat valley

More than 30 journalists and their families have had to seek refuge in Peshawar and other cities since the army launched its offensive against Islamist militants in the Swat valley.

Mexico

ARTICLE 19 calls for a federal policy to prevent aggressions against journalists

ARTICLE 19 calls on the Government of Mexico and President Felipe Calderón Hinojosa to establish a committee to protect journalists and implement a comprehensive strategy to stop attacks on journalists and media workers.

International

ARTICLE 19 new project: "Defending the right to express sexual and gender identity"

On the occasion of 17 May, International Day against Homophobia and Transphobia, ARTICLE 19 announces the launch of a new project on freedom of expression, and sexual and gender identity.

International

Special mandates highlight framework for media and elections

The four special mandates on freedom of expression today issued a Joint Statement on Media and Elections, with the assistance of ARTICLE 19.

Joint action - Tunisia

IFEX-TMG calls on president to end government interference in SNJT work

(IFEX-TMG) - On 13 May 2009, the IFEX-TMG wrote to Tunisian President Zine el Abidine Ben Ali urging him to end his government's interference in the work of the national journalists' union, the SNJT.

Joint action - Uzbekistan

Thirty-two IFEX members and other partners call on Uzbek President to release wrongfully imprisoned journalist Salijon Abdurahmanov

Abdurahmanov was the only independent correspondent to cover the whole of Karakalpakstan, whose people have already lost the sea, fish, jobs, prosperity and health, and are now losing their last hope for the future.

Joint action - Thailand / World Press Freedom Day

To mark World Press Freedom Day, SEAPA, TJA and six other organisations issue proposals for media freedom

(SEAPA/TJA/IFEX) - SEAPA and its founding member in Thailand, the Thai Journalists Association (TJA), and other Thai media groups issued a joint statement on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day.

Joint action - International / World Press Freedom Day

World Press Freedom Day conference concludes with commitment to tackle impunity, repressive media laws

Representatives from 11 countries in Eastern Africa have resolved to carry out a campaign against repressive media laws and the culture of impunity in the region.

Joint action - Nigeria

ARTICLE 19 and MRA promote access to information in health matters

Participants at two pilot workshops organised by ARTICLE 19, in partnership with the Center for the Right to Health (CRH) and Media Rights Agenda (MRA), have adopted strategies promoting the right of access to information in health matters in two Nigerian states: Enugu and Lagos.

Mexico

IAPA conference calls on government for transparency in its war on drugs

Calling on the government of Mexico to carry out its battle with drug traffickers openly and with respect for the press's duty to inform the public, the Inter American Press Association-organized conference "The Press, the Government and Organized Crime," wound up here today.

Joint action - Thailand

Twenty-six IFEX members and other organisations urge government to amend lese majeste law

Reporters Without Borders joined by 31 other organisations in a call for moratorium on prosecutions for criticising the King, dialogue on Internet freedom

Joint action - International

ARTICLE 19 and CIHRS welcome agreement on final Outcome Document of Durban Review Conference

(ARTICLE 19/CIHRS/IFEX) - Geneva, 23 April 2009 - ARTICLE 19 and CIHRS Welcome Agreement on the Final Outcome Document of the Durban Review Conference

East Timor

Mission finds media law reform process "flawed"

On 16 to 18 April 2009, SEAPA, joined by media and free expression organisations from the region, led a mission to Timor-Leste to offer expertise and raise concerns about proposed media laws.

Joint action - Iran

Thirty-five IFEX members call for release of journalist Roxana Saberi

Committee to Protect Journalists and Reporters Without Borders lead appeal by 35 IFEX members expressing concern about Saberi's sentencing to eight years in prison

Joint action - International

ARTICLE 19, CIHRS concerned about member states' withdrawal from Durban Review

ARTICLE 19 and the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies (CIHRS) are extremely concerned by the recent decision of the United States, Australia, New Zealand and the Netherlands to withdraw from the UN anti-racism conference

Joint action - International

Three IFEX members and 14 other organisations urge UN member states to participate constructively in Durban Review Conference

Three IFEX members and 14 other organisations strongly reaffirm the obligation of the State members of the United Nations to implement their international commitments at the Durban Review Conference

Bangladesh

ARTICLE 19 and partners launch awareness campaign on the right to information

ARTICLE 19, Sushashoner Jonno Pracharavijan (SUPRO) and its network organisations have launched a major mass awareness campaign on the right to information

Joint action - Moldova

Twenty-five IFEX members and 10 other organisations protest violations of access to information rights and attacks on journalists following elections

(IJC/IFEX) - The following is joint action by 25 IFEX members and 10 other organisations:

Joint action - Thailand

Blogger Suwicha Thakhor sentenced to 10 years in prison; two IFEX members concerned about routine use of lèse majesté to silence dissent

(ARTICLE 19/Index on Censorship/IFEX) - The following is a press release by ARTICLE 19, Index on Censorship and English PEN:

Joint action - Russia

Human rights advocate Lev Ponomarev seriously hurt; Human Rights Watch, Freedom House and others urge Obama to address attacks on activists in talks with Medvedev

(HRW/IFEX) - The following is a Human Rights Watch press release:

Joint action - Nepal

ARTICLE 19 and FNJ express concern over government's adoption of regressive film regulation

(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) - The following is a 31 March 2009 joint statement by ARTICLE 19, FNJ and Freedom Forum:

Joint action - International

ARTICLE 19 and CIHRS condemn UN Human Rights Council adoption of resolution on "Defamation of Religions"

(ARTICLE 19/CIHRS/IFEX) - The following is a 27 March 2009 ARTICLE 19 and CIHRS joint statement:

Joint action - International

Twenty-seven IFEX members join numerous other organisations in urging UN Human Rights Council members to reject "Defamation of Religions" resolution

(Freedom House/IFEX) - The following is a joint statement by 186 signatories, including 27 IFEX members, calling on United Nations member states to reject the "defamation of religions" resolution tabled at the UN Human Rights Council:

Joint action - Philippines

On fourth anniversary of journalist Marlene Esperat's death, media advocates, including three IFEX members, challenge President Arroyo on killing of journalists

(SEAPA/IFEX) - The following is a joint action by members of the Southeast Asian Press Alliance (SEAPA) Mission to Fight Impunity Against Filipino Journalists:

Joint action - Mexico

Three IFEX members and Mexican organisations denounce criminal prosecution of community radio station Tierra y Libertad

(AMARC/IFEX) - The following is a 16 March 2009 joint statement by AMARC, ARTICLE 19, Reporters without Borders and four other organisations:

Joint action - Sri Lanka

Four IFEX members call on UN to investigate press freedom violations; former chairman of government-owned broadcaster kidnapped

(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) - The following is a joint submission to the UN Human Rights Council by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), ARTICLE 19, World Association of Newspapers (WAN) and the International Press Institute (IPI):

Joint action - Sri Lanka

International press freedom groups call for release of journalist J.S. Tissainayagam

(International Press Freedom Mission to Sri Lanka /IFEX) - The following is statement by the International Press Freedom Mission to Sri Lanka, a group comprising six IFEX members and three other organisations:

Eastern Europe, Caucasus, Central Asia

From the symbols to the streets, campaigning gets creative in Central Asia

Cartoonists and writers are raising awareness of free expression issues in Central Asia this week by competing in essay and caricature contests launched by IFEX members and partners in the region to commemorate World Press Freedom Day.

Joint action - China / United States

Three IFEX members and four other organisations urge U.S. Secretary of State Hillary Clinton to make censorship, human rights abuses key issues in state visit to China

(RSF/IFEX) - The following is a 12 February 2009 joint letter by Human Rights Watch, Freedom House, Reporters Without Borders and four other organisations:

Joint action - Tunisia

Five IFEX members and other organisations condemn prison sentences for 38 demonstrators; call for an end to attacks on Kalima radio station

(CIHRS//IFEX) - The following is an 8 February 2009 joint action by the Cairo Institute for Human Rights Studies (CIHRS), Arab Archives Institute (AAI), Arabic Network for Human Rights Information (ANHRI), Bahrain Center for Human Rights (BCHR), Maharat Foundation and 17 other organizations:

Joint action - Nepal

Press freedom still under threat despite hopes for improvement on return to democratic rule

(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) - The following is a joint action by five IFEX members and other organizations that make up the International Press Freedom and Freedom of Expression Mission:

Joint action - Bahrain

Twenty IFEX members around the globe denounce jailing of activists for expressing their views

(BCHR/IFEX) - The following is a joint action by 20 IFEX members:

Joint action - Colombia

CPJ and Human Rights Watch object to President Uribe's accusations against journalist Hollman Morris

(CPJ/HRW/IFEX) - The following is a 5 February CPJ and Human Rights Watch letter to Colombia's president, Álvaro Uribe Vélez:

Joint action - Botswana

Twenty-eight IFEX members call for review of restrictive media law

(MISA/IFEX) - The following is a joint action by 28 IFEX members:

Joint action - Guatemala

Nine IFEX members express concern over freedom of expression situation in Guatemala

(CERIGUA/IFEX) - The following is a 29 January 2009 joint action by nine IFEX members:

Joint action - Tunisia

IFEX-TMG members urgently call on authorities to immediately cease blockade of Radio Kalima, investigate abduction of journalist Dhafer Otay

(IFEX-TMG) - The following is an IFEX-TMG press release:

Joint action - United States

ARTICLE 19 and Privacy International welcome move to improve public access to government information

(ARTICLE 19/IFEX) - The following is a 23 January 2009 joint statement by ARTICLE 19 and Privacy International, an interim member of IFEX:

Joint action - Mexico

Environment of fear prompts journalists to go into exile, self-censor or risk violent attack, says RSF/CEPET report

(RSF/CEPET/IFEX) - The following is an abridged version of a 22 January 2009 joint RSF and CEPET press release:

Joint action - Sri Lanka

International mission condemns "culture of impunity and indifference"

(IFJ/IPI/RSF/IFEX) - The following is a joint action by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), International Press Institute (IPI), Reporters sans frontières (RSF) and two other organisations:

Joint action - Russia

Double murder reveals culture of impunity and injustice

(ARTICLE 19/Index on Censorship/IFEX) - The following is a joint action by ARTICLE 19 and Index on Censorship:

Tunisia excels in the high art of lowdown slander

(Op-Ed By Rohan Jayasekera, published in the Daily Star, Lebanon) - There's an old proverb that "a lie can get halfway round the world before the truth has got its boots on." As free expression campaigners we are used to governments sponsoring disinformation and lies to discredit critics. Every country has a few state-run or government-favored publications willing to run lies on their behalf. What's new is the scale of these disinformation operations, which now spread to the planting of news, adverts and paid-for editorials in foreign papers as well as the local press. The most brazen practitioner of this kind of propaganda is Tunisia, which has unleashed a storm of such material at home and abroad, in reaction to the way its record of human rights abuse is being exposed internationally.

Kenya

The Media Institute takes action against the Kenya Communications Act 2008

Journalists, free expression advocates and media owners in Kenya got some bad news at the beginning of 2009, after they learned that President Mwai Kibaki had signed into law a contentious media bill that imposed new restrictions on the press. But thanks to an immediate and massive campaign launched by IFEX member the Media Institute and the Kenya Editors Guild (KEG), President Kibaki directed the Attorney General and the Information Minister to review the bill and facilitate its return to parliament for debate.