About IFEX:

News by region:

IFEX Campaigns and Advocacy:

IFEX Email Products:

Opportunities and assistance:

IFEX Member Campaigns 2012

---

Ethiopia

Obama should raise press freedom in Africa food talks, says CPJ

Ethiopian Prime Minister Meles Zenawi's government downplays food crises by denying journalists access to sensitive areas and censoring independent coverage.

Pakistan

Call for revision of National Human Rights Commission law

President Asif Ali Zardari should not sign the bill until it is revised to authorise investigations of the military and the intelligence agencies for human rights violations, Human Rights Watch said.

Azerbaijan

Eurovision must shine light on mistreatment of journalists, says IFJ

Journalists and broadcasters descending upon Baku to report on Eurovision should also focus the media spotlight on the host’s treatment of their Azeri colleagues, says IFJ secretary-general.

Ecuador

Seventeen states request respect for freedom of expression

Seventeen states from the Americas, Europe and Asia suggested that the Ecuadorian government should respect and guarantee the freedoms of the press and of expression in the country.

Bahrain

ARTICLE 19's submission to the Universal Periodic Review

ARTICLE 19 has called on the UN member states to urge the authorities to commit to preventing harassment of journalists and human rights defenders, stop controlling and censoring the media, increase internet freedom and end violations of the right to peaceful protest.

Azerbaijan

International freedom of expression coalition launches website ahead of Eurovision

The International Partnership Group for Azerbaijan's website examines the alarming freedom of expression situation in Azerbaijan, where journalists and others face blackmail, intimidation, violence, and imprisonment for expressing critical views.

Senegal

Freedom of expression and access to information key to promoting equal political representation, says ARTICLE 19

The law on parity constitutes an integral part of the legal framework of Senegal, one of the most protective and progressive laws on women’s rights.

Joint action - Bahrain

One hundred organisations call to end assault on freedom of speech, and to free all detained human rights defenders and netizens

One hundred organisations appeal to authorities to release human rights activists in Bahrain from prison. They include Abdulhadi Al-Khawaja, founder of IFEX member BCHR, his daughter Zaynab Al-Khawaja, and Nabeel Rajab, President of BCHR. Al-Khawaja’s life is at risk after more than three months on hunger strike.

International

Let us participate in WCIT preparations, say civil society groups

Preparations are under way for the World Conference on International Telecommunications, which will be held in Dubai in December 2012. Civil society groups say the process so far has not been transparent and are calling for greater involvement.

Azerbaijan

A visit with journalist Idrak Abbasov

On 18 April, journalist Idrak Abbasov was brutally attacked while he reported on the demolition of houses in his village. Rebecca Vincent recently visited him at his home outside Baku.

Russia

Punk collective Pussy Riot gives exclusive interview to IFEX member Index on Censorship

Members of the band who have not yet been arrested are now in hiding, but they responded to interview questions by email.

International / Awards

34 Multimedia Magazine from Belarus to receive IPI's 2012 Free Media Pioneer Award

Founded and published by Belarusian journalist Iryna Vidanava, the magazine is a revived multimedia version of Studentskaya Dumka, a banned, Belarusian-language youth magazine.

Thailand

Two years after crackdown, still no justice

In a video, victims and their family members from both sides demand justice and tell Human Rights Watch that the failure to investigate and prosecute those responsible for abuses during the 2010 violence would lead to a cycle of violence and impunity.

Indonesia

Rights record under scrutiny at UN

UN members states should push for the adoption of specific measures to ensure free expression and accountability for abuses, said Human Rights Watch.

International / Awards

CRNI announces winners of 2012 Courage in Editorial Cartooning Award

The winners are Ali Ferzat from Syria and Aseem Trivedi from India.

United Kingdom

Queen announces a defamation reform bill

The bill, which will curb aggressive libel lawsuits and protect free expression for journalists, writers and scientists, is the first wholesale attempt at reform since 1843.

Asia and Pacific / Indonesia

AMARC calls for legislative reform and equitable frequency distribution

The AMARC regional coordinator mentioned the lack of proper enabling legislation as the single principal barrier to community radio sustainability and called for a fair, open, transparent, and efficient process of awarding and regulating broadcasting licences for community radios.

Africa

ARTICLE 19's oral statement to the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights

ARTICLE 19 welcomes the inclusion by the Special Rapporteur in her agenda of future activities of the celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression in Africa.

International

Panel discusses effective mechanisms to ensure safety of journalists worldwide

Panelists stressed that cooperation with local media, as well as publicity and advocacy efforts are key means to end attacks against journalists.

Egypt

ARTICLE 19 outlines how to protect free expression and information in new constitution

The new Constitution is on the verge of being drafted and ARTICLE 19 has produced a comprehensive policy brief outlining how the new Constitution should protect the right to freedom of expression and freedom of information In order to support the forthcoming work of the drafters.

United Kingdom / Pakistan

CPJ calls on Cameron to address journalists' security in upcoming meetings

CPJ data show that the country has been ranked the deadliest in the world for journalists for two consecutive years.

Thailand

TJA highlights new challenges for press freedom

Amid divisive ideas and political ideologies that have led to the use of violence, the local media are now having difficulties, as several conflicting political parties have started their own media businesses including newspapers, satellite-broadcast televisions and social media.

Awards / Zimbabwe

Publisher Trevor Ncube wins inaugural MISA-Zimbabwe Press Freedom Award

The AMH publisher was presented the award for continuing to provide platforms and access to critical alternative views and ideas on Zimbabwe's socio-economic and political issues.

Iran

Authorities urged to free students jailed for speaking out

A joint campaign initiated by Iranian and international student and rights groups calls for the unconditional and immediate release of the 32 students in prison on various national security-related charges.

Pakistan

IFJ launches mission reports

PFUJ and IFJ deployed four missions to assess the situation on the ground in some of the most dangerous and under-reported provinces in the country - Balochistan, Interior Sindh, the Khyber-FATA region and Punjab.

Azerbaijan

European Broadcasting Union should speak out on government's appalling record on freedom of expression, says Human Rights Watch

On the eve of World Press Freedom Day, the EBU held a workshop in Geneva on media freedom in Azerbaijan but failed to use the opportunity to call the government to task and to speak out about Azerbaijan’s abysmal record on freedom of expression.

International

Media freedom in the spotlight "as rarely before", says Index on Censorship

The last year has seen tumultuous shifts for media freedom. But core problems still remain in the world’s troublespots, says Index on Censorship's news editor, Padraig Reidy.

International

CRNI pays tribute to editorial cartoonists on World Press Freedom Day

One of the most troubling trends today in many countries is the use of technological advancements to imprison for long terms not only cartoonists, but also non-media individuals who do nothing more than post a cartoon on a blog or Facebook page, says CRNI.

Malaysia

Time to rally for free and fair media, says CIJ

On World Press Freedom Day 2012, the Centre for Independent Journalism renews its call to the people to reclaim their right to a media that can play its role of bearing witness and informing society.

Nigeria

MRA celebrates World Press Freedom Day with YouTube videos on free expression

MRA has uploaded five videos in which the group talks briefly on the significance of World Press Freedom Day in Nigeria.

Europe and Central Asia

"The struggle for press freedom is a continuing endeavour," says IPI affiliate

SEEMO noted that a number of journalists' murders remain unsolved and the media face ongoing physical and verbal threats, especially during pre-election periods.

Canada

CJFE reflects on the state of rights on World Press Freedom Day

"If we value press freedom, we all need to take a closer look at the state of these rights here at home. When we look beyond the words of the Charter to the daily reality for working journalists, we see a gradual erosion of freedoms. And our government is a contributing factor, " said CJFE.

Somalia

IFJ welcomes landmark ACHPR resolution on protection of journalists

The resolution calls on authorities and armed groups to end ongoing violations against journalists, media practitioners and organisations.

Azerbaijan

IRFS highlights sustained, aggressive suppression of the media

Jailings, smear campaigns, trumped-up charges against journalists and unsolved murders: the free expression situation in Azerbaijan

International

IPI marks World Press Freedom Day 2012

Executive Director Alison Bethel McKenzie issued a statement to commemorate the day.

Tunisia

IFEX-TMG launches new initiatives on World Press Freedom Day

The new work includes a literary anthology edited by the president of PEN Tunisia Naziha Rejiba, a training manual on online advocacy, a workshop for cartoonists, and a national newspaper and billboard campaign championing free expression rights as Tunisia’s Constituent Assembly continues to negotiate a new national constitution.

Philippines

CMFR creates special web page to highlight press freedom and freedom of expression

The site calls attention to three major issues: the rampant killing of journalists which demonstrate the prevailing culture of impunity in the Philippines; the use of criminal libel to stifle dissent; and the failure to pass a freedom of information law.

Asia and Pacific

World Press Freedom Day: Online media is the space to watch in Southeast Asia

SEAPA marks World Press Freedom Day with the release of 10 country reports on the situation of press freedom in the region.

Indonesia

AJI calls on authorities to shed light on cases of eight murdered journalists

AJI stated that the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on 3 May 2012 has to be the drive for law enforcers to end the practice of impunity that benefits journalists' killers.

Tunisia

Workshops on "Internet serving freedom of expression" conclude ahead of World Press Freedom Day

The workshop included theoretical, technical, and practical training on blogging, social networks, photography, and filming in support of freedom of expression.

Tunisia

World Press Freedom Day highlights lack of progress on media reform, says ARTICLE 19

ARTICLE 19 calls on the government to make use of the UNESCO World Press Freedom Day event held in Tunis as a golden opportunity to advance the media reform package.

Asia and Pacific / Papua New Guinea

PNG media pioneer honored on WPFD day

A minute of silence before a WPFD Editors Forum will honour the late Yehiura Hriehwazi, one of Papua New Guinea's leading journalists, who died suddenly on 8 January 2012.

International / Awards

Bangladeshi and Tibetan bloggers win Best of Blog "RSF category" awards

Bangladeshi journalist Abu Sufian's blog is the jury choice in the "RSF category" of this year's BOBs.

Caribbean

On World Press Freedom Day ACM urges affiliates to promote reform of media-related laws

"Though we have generally escaped the worst impacts of impunity, violence and official aggression, Caribbean social communicators and journalists have not eluded the potentially muting impacts of self-censorship, unenlightened regulation and challenging economic, social and political circumstances," said ACM.

International

Every five days, a journalist is killed: RSF

To mark World Press Freedom Day, RSF has also named new six members to its infamous list of press freedom predators.

Palestine / Israel

World Press Freedom Day: an occasion to defend freedom of expression

For Palestinian journalists, the day highlights the daily challenges they face, with increasing violations against media freedoms by the Israeli forces and Palestinian parties in the West Bank and Gaza Strip.

Philippines

US urged to press for justice, keep aid conditional on holding rights abusers accountable

The US recently missed a key opportunity to engage publicly with the Philippine military about the need to end impunity for serious human rights abuses, Human Rights Watch notes.

International

Reporters targeted in record numbers and brutal ways

The current treaties, action plans and standards to protect journalists aren't working, says IPI. It's time we looked at other means to keep our reporters safe.

International

IFJ marks World Press Freedom Day by calling for release of jailed journalists

"We are witnessing unprecedented levels of criminal litigation against journalists in many countries. Governments must repeal criminal defamation laws and review anti-terror laws, which represent a major obstacle to genuine press freedom,” said IFJ.

International

Make a free press the "headline for democratic transition"

WAN-IFRA releases exclusive interviews, photos and materials about the importance of press freedom and the risks facing professional and citizen journalists.

Europe and Central Asia

World Press Freedom Day: In Europe, Turkey still in focus

As part of the IFJ's Turkish campaign, the organisation has encouraged its affiliates to "adopt" a journalist in prison. This involves following news on the journalist's case, corresponding with the journalist in jail, and highlighting the case to other members.

International

PEN International celebrates rights of all citizens to access information and truth

These rights are persistently denied by repressive regimes often in collusion, implicit or otherwise, with powerful non-state players.

Americas

IAPA reflects on media issues while celebrating World Press Freedom Day

IAPA voices concerns on the direct and subtle economic, legal, and judicial means used against the news media in a number of countries in the region that result in prior restraint and self-censorship, harming not only the news media itself, but most importantly, weakening the public’s right to receive information.

Canada

Federal government continues to receive failing grade on issue of free expression

Examining issues including privacy and anonymity on the Internet, cyber surveillance, whistleblowers, access to information, and collaborative journalism, CJFE's third annual Review of Free Expression in Canada provides an overview of issues facing Canadians from coast to coast.

Tunisia

Regional cartoonists at IFEX-TMG workshop in Tunisia express “hope and resolve”

"This workshop has demonstrated clearly that in Tunisia editorial cartoonists will be on the cutting edge of free speech," said CRNI Executive Director Robert Russell.

West Africa

MFWA salutes journalists on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day

MFWA notes with special concern the harrowing experience of media rights defenders in countries like Guinea Bissau and Mali who have had to perform their duties under harsh conditions imposed as a result of the recent coups in both countries.

Indonesia

AJI calls for support for campaign against impunity

World Press Freedom Day will be commemorated on 3 May 2012 in Indonesia with the theme "Against Impunity - Put Killers of Journalists on Trial."

Philippines

Attacking press freedom while "enhancing" it - a statement by the Freedom Fund for Filipino Journalists

When Congress re-convenes on 7 May it will be discussing a Freedom of Information (FOI) bill that, while not perfect, is generally acceptable to the media and civil society groups that have been working for the passage of an FOI act since the 1990s.

South Africa

Panel issues recommendations to improve media self-regulation

Nearly 200 journalists gathered to hear the much-anticipated findings of the organisation charged with designing a “gold standard” regulatory system for print media.

Southern Africa

MISA concerned by growing intolerance of media freedom in the region

Even in so-called progressive countries like South Africa, MISA has witnessed deliberate assaults on journalists, media practitioners and media houses.

Indonesia

EU-Indonesia dialogue should address restraints on free expression

A new trend in Indonesia is the use of criminal defamation laws targeting religious minorities, Human Rights Watch has found.

United States

California Legislature recognises World Press Freedom Day

The resolution recognizes the role a free press plays within California and throughout the world in sustaining and monitoring democracy, contributing to greater accountability in government, and promoting civic participation and economic development.

Mexico

Journalist Marcela Turati sheds light on the social effects of drug trafficking violence

"The majority of Mexican journalists have become war correspondents in their own country ever since President Felipe Calderón launched his war against drug trafficking and the battles spilled out into the streets," says Turati.

Saudi Arabia

Authorities urged to abolish terrorism court

The Specialized Criminal Court, set up in 2008 to try terrorism cases, is increasingly used to try peaceful dissidents and rights activists on politicized charges and in proceedings that violate the right to a fair trial and the rights to freedom of expression.

Joint action - Ethiopia

Thirty-two IFEX members urge authorities to release journalist Eskinder Nega

On 1 May, jailed journalist Eskinder Nega, facing the death penalty, receives in absentia the 2012 PEN/Barbara Goldsmith Freedom to Write Award. Thirty-two IFEX members are calling for his release, and an end to the use of national security legislation against all writers and journalists.

Somalia

World Press Freedom Day 2012: The story of Mohamed Ibrahim

In Somalia, a nation of ever-shifting fortunes, the first few months of 2012 have been particularly deadly for the media.

Pakistan

Investigative journalist Umar Cheema recounts struggle for freedom

"Instead of bowing to tyranny, I decided to stand brave and firm", said this award-winning journalist.

International

Mitigating risks to report safely, CPJ launches Journalist Security Guide

The interactive guide covers topics such as protecting digital information, preparing for armed conflict, covering organised crime and corruption, and mitigating the risk of sexual violence.

Joint action - Kazakhstan

Twenty-seven IFEX members call for investigation into brutal attacks on journalists

Twenty-seven IFEX members appeal for end to impunity in recent brutal attacks on journalists in Kazakhstan, including near-fatal attack on Luqpan Akhmedyarov in April.

Vietnam / Australia

Australia urged to press for human rights improvements in Vietnam

Vietnam should be urged to release all political prisoners and to end restrictions on the freedoms of expression, association, peaceful assembly, belief, and religion when the two sides meet for their annual bilateral human rights dialogue, Human Rights Watch said.

International

Media Rights Agenda welcomes UN plan for journalists' safety

The plan, which is promoted by UNESCO, calls for governments and inter-governmental agencies to create a free and safe environment for media workers in both conflict and non-conflict zones.

Joint action - Africa

APAI calls on ACHPR to advance the right to access information

The APAI working group called on the Commission to recognise 28 September as International Right to Know Day.

Western Europe

Journalists regularly barred from immigrant detention centres, campaign shows

As the month-long campaign "Open the doors! We have the right to know" comes to a close, RSF and its partners attempt to shine a light on the conditions of migrants in detention facilities across Europe.

Syria

Rights activists brought to trial, others still held incommunicado

Nineteen rights organisations condemn the ongoing secret detention of Mazen Darwish and four of his colleagues from the Syrian Center for Media and Freedom of Expression, after seven of their colleagues and one visitor began trial under the military penal code.

Ethiopia

IPI World Press Freedom Heroes condemn imprisonment of journalist Eskinder Nega

Renowned journalists call for an end to the persecution of journalists in Ethiopia.

Canada

Bill C-11 casts shadow over World Book Day celebrations

IPA is sending a letter to Canadian ministers about proposed legislation that poses a serious threat to educational publishing and creativity in general.

Tunisia

Workshop on "Internet and Free Expression" held in Sidi Bouzid

The workshop, organised by ANHRI and the Tunisian Center for Freedom of the Press, included practical training on new media and social networks (Facebook, Twitter and Flickr) and techniques of live broadcasts using mobile devices in addition to using the Internet to design campaigns.

Africa

MISA stresses need for access to information in Africa

Referring to the African Platform on Access to Information campaign initiated in 2011, MISA said access to information is a right that many African citizens were still struggling to realise.

Joint action - Bahrain

Fifty IFEX members and partners call for freedom for Bahraini human rights defenders, bloggers and activists

In advance of the Formula 1, 50 IFEX members and partners call for detained activists and human rights defenders to be freed, including blogger and activist Abduljalil Al-Singace and human rights activist Abdulhadi Al-Khawaja, founder of IFEX member the Bahrain Centre for Human Rights, who is ailing in prison since starting a hunger strike on 8 February.

Bahrain

Grand Prix decision ignores abuses, says Human Rights Watch

The decision to go ahead with the Grand Prix on April 22, 2012, gives the country's rulers the opportunity they are seeking to obscure the seriousness of the country’s human rights situation, says Human Rights Watch.

Ethiopia / Awards / International

PEN awards top prize to jailed journalist Eskinder Nega

Nega, who was arrested in September 2011, is being tried under the country's sweeping anti-terror legislation and faces the death penalty if convicted.

Joint action - Tunisia

IFEX-TMG alarmed by ongoing attacks targeting demonstrators, media, performers and academics

The IFEX-TMG is alarmed at attacks and prison sentences based on religious morality charges, as well as the use of force by police on demonstrators.

Nepal

Government urged to adopt free press recommendations

The International Fact Finding and Advocacy Media Mission to Nepal has finished its review of specific provisions from the country's draft constitution that the Constituent Assembly will finalize by 28 May.

International

Journalists provide global prescription for fighting violence and impunity

The participants pointed to cases in Mexico, Pakistan and Russia to highlight the urgent need for effective government measures to protect journalists worldwide.

Belarus

New campaign highlights free expression abuses in "Europe's last dictatorship"

The campaign includes suggestions for a strategy of targeted sanctions against the regime and a need to reach out to and engage civil society.

Joint action - Iraq

Forty-four IFEX members and partners call proposed cyber crimes law a setback to free speech

An open letter by 44 organisations calls Iraq's proposed Information Technology Crimes law a threat to the fundamental freedoms necessary for the evolution of free speech and a vibrant press. The law will come to vote in the Iraqi Council of Representatives in April.

Ukraine

International delegation expresses concern about press freedom

Representatives from several rights organisations welcomed a law guaranteeing access to information and the establishment of a presidential interagency working group on media freedom, but expressed concerns about impunity, lack of media independence and an environment of corruption and lack of transparency in general.

Pakistan

Global coalition of NGOs calls for official withdrawal of censorship plans

A letter by the coalition comes as a follow up to a verbal commitment by the Secretary IT that the plan for a national URL filtering and blocking system, announced earlier this year, has been withdrawn.

Burma

Role of freedom of expression in democratisation processes: an ARTICLE 19 presentation

During a conference on media development, ARTICLE 19's executive director spoke about the place of freedom of expression / media laws and legal reforms in the country's democratisation process.

Joint action - Bahrain

Nine human rights organisations raise freedom of expression demands with Arab League

Among the demands expressed by the rights organisations is the immediate release of human rights activist Abdulhadi Al-Khawaja, whose health is severely compromised after 50 days of hunger strike.

Djibouti

RSF asks UN rapporteur to help end journalist's torture

Mendez was urged to intervene on behalf of radio journalist Farah Abadid Hildid, who works for the Europe-based station La Voix de Djibouti.

International

On the 36th anniversary of the ICCPR, an opportunity to protect free speech

The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights imposes legally binding obligations on states to respect a number of human rights, including the right to freedom of expression.

Israel

IPI expresses support for journalist facing seven years in prison

Uri Blau faces charges under the country’s Espionage Act and seven years in prison over articles he wrote for the newspaper Haaretz using classified military documents passed to him by an Israeli conscript in 2009.

Ecuador

IFEX-ALC acknowledges Ecuadoran president's decision

IFEX-ALC values the pardon granted by President Rafael Correa, exempting three directors of the daily "El Universo" and a former feature writer from a sentence of three years in prison and a US$40 million fine, and refraining from pursuing further judicial action against the authors of the book "El Gran Hermano".

Azerbaijan

International groups show solidarity with Khadija Ismayilova in the face of escalating harassment

The International Partnership Group for Azerbaijan, a coalition of international NGOs working to promote and protect freedom of expression in Azerbaijan, has condemned the blackmail and continued harassment of Ismayilova, one of the few independent investigative journalists working in the country.

Joint action - Vietnam

Government urged to release bloggers, dismiss all charges

SEAPA joined the Media Legal Defence Initiative and other human rights organisations in calling for the release of five bloggers arbitrarily detained for more than seven months.

Syria

Russia urged to back UN action to stop bloodshed, grant access to journalists

A coalition of 200 NGOs from 27 countries is demanding that the UN Security Council immediately unite and pass a resolution calling on the government to bring an immediate end to its indiscriminate shelling and attacks on peaceful protesters.

International

RSF keeps UNESCO consultative status, condemns defamatory attacks

In a recent UNESCO executive council meeting, several countries blocked RSF's promotion to associate NGO status and accused the organisation of "spying" and "activities on behalf of the US government" – accusations that RSF says are typical of repressive regimes and their supporters.

Turkey

Six months later, Nobel Peace Prize nominee still behind bars

Following the release of four prominent journalists, IPA urges the Turkish authorities to also release publisher Ragip Zarakolu, who is being held on pre-trial detention and has not been allowed access to his lawyers.

Uganda

Government paying lip service to UPR mechanism, deplores HRNJ-Uganda

It is over 120 days since the government pledged to implement 170 recommendations in the area of human rights during the review at the Universal Periodic Review in Geneva in October 2011, but Uganda still falls well short of implementation.

International / Awards / Syria

Syrian citizen journalists and activists awarded Google-sponsored RSF Netizen Prize

Nominees came from around the globe at the ceremony, from Russia to Syria to Brazil, China and beyond, a geographic diversity that reflects the growing impact of the Net.

Canada

CJFE marks World Day Against Cyber Censorship by highlighting concerns with internet regulations

"Although Canada does not face the same type of Internet blackouts or direct online censorship and takedowns as many other countries, this does not mean that we can be complacent, or that we do not have reason for concern," said CJFE.

Egypt

Authorities urged to close case against foreign NGOs, hold ministers accountable

CIHRS, ANHRI, EOHR, and other rights organisations applaud the Supreme Judicial Council for instigating an independent investigation into the circumstances surrounding the case, and recommend that the findings of the investigation be made public.

Bahrain

On World Day Against Cyber Censorship, BCHR calls for action from authorities

Amid last year's events, many websites were reported blocked due to their reporting on casualties among protestors and uploading photos and videos of peaceful protests being brutally attacked by security forces.

International

In honour of World Day against Cyber-Censorship, RSF releases new list of internet enemies

Bahrain and Belarus have been added to the "Enemies of the Internet" category, and India and Kazakhstan have been classified as "countries under surveillance."

Equatorial Guinea

Disappointing vote by UNESCO on Obiang prize

An 8 March decision by the executive board to change the controversial award's name and press UNESCO's Director General Irina Bokova to implement it was due to be formally adopted in a plenary session.

Palestine

MADA calls for an end to all forms of discrimination against women journalists

To mark the occasion of International Women’s Day, MADA congratulates Palestinian women and women around the globe, especially journalists, on their accomplishments in all professional fields.

Southern Africa

MISA celebrates women journalists on the occasion of International Women's Day

On the occasion of International Women’s Day, MISA salutes and appreciates the efforts all women, especially the journalists, media professionals and media scholars who continue to make immense contributions to the growth and development of journalism and media in the Southern African region.

Bangladesh

International Women's Day 2012: Writing wrongs against women

ARTICLE 19 has implemented a pilot project in Bangladesh on the issue of women's participation in the media, and has found evidence of gender-based discrimination and censorship.

Venezuela

Freedom of expression continues to decline following government's rejection of UN recommendations

IFEX-ALC calls for and invites the government to accept its responsibilities with respect to freedom of expression by accepting the UPR recommendations, and to comply with all international freedom of expression standards.

Ethiopia

Ban Ki-moon should speak out on imprisoned journalists, says IPI

In an open letter to UN Secretary General Ban Ki-moon, IPI asks him to speak out against the use of anti-terrorism legislation against media members.

Joint action - Equatorial Guinea

Twenty-three African press freedom groups and journalists urge UNESCO to abolish Obiang prize

The signatories noted that while President Obiang has offered to remove his name from the prize, this does not erase the concern that his US$3 million donation links him and the abuses of his government to UNESCO, thereby undercutting the organisation’s worthy mission.

Egypt

Multinational telecoms colluded with state during revolution, says CIHRS

"A clear policy of zero tolerance should be adopted by the international community and private companies concerning the cutting off of communications systems at anytime, for any reason," argued CIHRS.

Somalia

"Stop the bloodbath, protect journalists and free expression," UN Human Rights Council told

At a side event held at the 19th session of the UNHRC in Geneva, NUSOJ, IFJ, ITUC and RSF highlighted attacks on journalists' rights and free expression, and exposed authorities' inability to prevent, investigate and punish perpetrators of crimes against journalists.

Turkey

One year on, prominent reporter and IPI World Press Freedom Hero languishes in prison

"The fact that Nedim Sener has been taken away from his family and locked up for a year on allegations that this journalism was a sham designed to protect those whose wrongdoing it exposed is both tragic and absurd," says IPI.

Joint action - Bahrain

Fifty rights groups call on King to free Abdulhadi Al-Khawaja, whose life is at risk in prison

Fifty IFEX members and other rights groups call on the Bahrain authorities to release from prison human rights defender Abdulhadi Al-Khawaja, whose life is at risk since beginning a hunger strike on 8 February.

Ghana

MFWA-MUSIGA statement marking Music Freedom Day

In Ghana, musicians have faced threats, insults and intimidation from opposing political party activists for composing songs for political parties of their choice during election campaigns.

Azerbaijan

Seven years on, still no justice for Elmar Huseynov

The editor of "Monitor" press agency was murdered in Baku in 2005; the killers have not been brought to justice.

Bangladesh

IPI completes press freedom mission

Mission delegates urged authorities to address the impunity related to attacks on, and killings of, journalists in the past 15 years, and to improve the legal framework affecting the media.

Awards / International

Golden Pen of Freedom awarded to Anabel Hernández

The Mexican journalist and writer said she was driven to focus on investigative journalism after the kidnapping and murder of her father in December 2000. Police investigators told the family that they were only willing to investigate the crime if the family paid them.

Ecuador

Fundamedios welcomes "El Universo" pardon, but calls for continued monitoring of government's actions

"We prompt the international community to remain alert of any attempt to take down or weaken a scheme for the protection of rights," said the organisation.

Montenegro

IPI releases report on press freedom mission

The mission concluded that quality journalism is scarce, competition between media outlets is fierce, and content is determined by media owners and powerful individuals.

Sri Lanka

RSF calls on UNHRC to condemn violations of freedom of information

The organisation feels that an immediate reaction is needed to stem the obstruction of journalists who want to cover the activities of the Lessons Learned and Reconciliation Commission.

Nepal

Mission finds worsening law reform, impunity and self-censorship

The International Fact Finding and Advocacy Mission to Nepal visited the country from 23 to 27 February 2012 to assess the media freedom situation.

Middle East and North Africa

CIHRS submits interventions to UNHRC to bring attention to struggle for democracy in the region

CIHRS is concerned that despite the continued deterioration of the human rights situation in some Arab states such as Egypt and Bahrain, the UN Human Rights Council did not set aside separate sessions for these countries on the agenda.

International

RSF supports demand to open detention centres to the media

RSF has joined a campaign - launched by European Alternatives and Migreurop - aimed at claiming the right of citizens to know what happens in centres where migrants are held.

Uganda

Admit UN special rapporteur on freedom of expression, urges HRNJ-Uganda

HRNJ-Uganda is shocked by the government's rejection of recommendations made to it during the Universal Periodic Review Mechanism to admit the UN Special Rapporteur on freedom of expression to visit the country and assess the human rights situation.

Equatorial Guinea

Eliminate Obiang Prize, urge seven civil society groups

Critics oppose President Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo's proposal to rename the award.

Côte d'Ivoire

Media practitioners and associations adopt new code of ethics

The new code of ethics is an outcome of the first phase of a media sector reform project undertaken by MFWA in partnership with IMS.

Morocco

Clinton urged to pressure reform of repressive speech laws

Human Rights Watch also urges the US Secretary of State to pressure authorities to free leading journalist Rachid Nini, who is serving a one-year sentence for articles he wrote.

Serbia

IPI challenges authorities to solve journalist murder cases, protect journalists under threat

Currently, five journalists in Serbia specialised in reporting on corruption have been given 24-hour police protection by the Ministry of the Interior but police have been unable to eliminate the sources of threat, which come mostly from mafia-like organisations.

Ecuador

Fundamedios condemns brutal blow against fundamental freedoms

Fundamedios believes that the sentence against "El Universo" will have calamitous consequences, not just for the exercise of the freedom of expression, but also for the effectiveness of democracy in Ecuador.

Joint action - Syria

Authorities urged to immediately and unconditionally release Mazen Darwish and other detained activists

Mazen Darwish, as well as seven of his colleagues and a visitor, remain under arrest following a recent raid on the Damascus offices of the Syrian Centre for Media and Freedom of Expression.

Canada

CJFE calls on government to stop muzzling scientists and researchers

In an letter to Prime Minister Harper, CJFE and their campaign partner organizations urge the government to implement a policy of transparent and timely communication to allow scientists to speak to the media.

Trinidad and Tobago

IPI writes open letter to commissioner of police about recent media raids

IPI addressed an open letter to Dwayne Gibbs, Trinidad & Tobago’s Commissioner of Police, regarding recent intimidation tactics against journalists and media houses perpetrated by the police force.

Ecuador

IFEX-ALC concerned over recent developments that undermine and jeopardise fundamental freedoms

The first incident involves the onerous, disproportionate and unjustified sentence handed down against journalists Juan Carlos Calderón and Christian Zurita, writers of the book "El Gran Hermano" (Big Brother), which highlights lucrative government contracts obtained by President Rafael Correa's brother.

Joint action - Tunisia

IFEX-TMG concerned by series of setbacks, calls on authorities to consolidate free expression in the country

The IFEX-TMG calls on the government to immediately pass the application decrees regarding the establishment of the HAICA – a regulatory body consisting of experts and representatives of all stakeholders to protect media against all forms of corruption and abuse.

Bahrain

One year on, authorities urged to address abuses, implement comprehensive reform

For months the government has made token gestures rather than implement reforms that address the root causes of the grievances of the protestors, says Freedom House.

Senegal

RSF monitors freedom of information, media behaviour during presidential election campaign

During his five-day visit, RSF's representative is due to meet with government officials, journalists and news media.

Zimbabwe

MISA publishes position on inclusion of media freedoms in draft constitution

The proposed draft constitution explicitly guarantees not only media freedoms and access to information, but also protects journalists and their sources.

International

AMARC celebrates first World Radio Day

The day's goals are to raise awareness about the value of radio and encourage the development of sustainable community radio as a voice for marginalized members of society.

Eritrea

RSF lawyer pleas on behalf of imprisoned journalists

The plea demonstrated that national laws and international treaties should provide protection to Dawit Isaac and his detained colleagues.

International / Chechnya (Russia) / Sri Lanka

RSF to create mirror sites to fight censorship

The organisation will host mirror sites of the Sri Lankan online newspaper Lanka-e-News and the Chechen magazine Dosh.

China

IFJ Press Freedom in China Campaign Bulletin - February 2012

IFJ issues its February 2012 bulletin on the state of press freedom in China.

Tunisia

Confirmation of court order could lead to return of Internet censorship

As the Tunisian Internet Agency has neither the financial resources nor technical capacity to establish a filtering system, it did not comply with the August 2011 court decision and referred the case to the country’s highest appeal court.

Joint action - Kazakhstan

Twenty-nine IFEX members call for release of independent newspaper editor

Twenty-nine IFEX members have signed a letter to the Prosecutor General about the detention of editor Igor Vinyavsky, whose detention is believed to be politically motivated, calling for him to be released and for the evidence leading to his arrest to be made public.

Americas

Civil society organisations call for careful evaluation of OAS Working Group recommendations

The IFEX-ALC and the Regional Alliance for Freedom of Expression and Information call for a careful evaluation of certain recommendations that could impact the mandate of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression.

Philippines

CMFR hails UNHRC recommendations

The United Nations Human Rights Committee declared that the provisions of the country’s Revised Penal Code (RPC) penalizing libel as a criminal offense is “incompatible with Article 19, paragraph three of the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR)” to which the Philippines is a signatory.

Bahrain

BCHR concerned about Bahrain's election to UNESCO education bureau

BCHR demands that Bahrain's membership in the UNESCO IBE be frozen, and contingent on the authorities taking steps to put an end to the targeting of members of the education sector.

Bahrain

Freedom House opposes US arms sale

Because the new arms sale is being broken up into multiple small pieces, it does not fall under Congressional notification requirements and details do not have to be made public. 



Joint action - Tunisia

IFEX-TMG delegation meets members of the Constituent Assembly

The delegation reaffirmed the necessity to enshrine the right to freedom of expression in the future constitution, to guarantee press freedom and the independence of public service media.

France / International

RSF releases press freedom index for 2011/2012

The Arab world was the motor of history in 2011 but the Arab uprisings have had contrasting political outcomes so far, with Tunisia and Bahrain at opposite ends of the scale.

International

IFJ welcomes call for greater protection of media at major conference in Doha

The conference participants agreed to submit to the UN General Assembly recommendations for the enforcement of legal instruments that bind national authorities to prevent and punish violence against journalists.

Sri Lanka

IFJ joins 'Black January' campaign against attacks on journalists

The campaign is a response to the attacks on the media that have occurred in the month of January in the past three years, and the failure of the government of Sri Lanka to bring to account those responsible for attacks on numerous journalists.

Ethiopia

Following fact-finding mission, RSF reports on press freedom situation in the country

in the course of its observations and the interviews it conducted during its visit, RSF confirmed that freedom of expression has been on the wane for some time.

Joint action - Azerbaijan

PACE urged to demand freedom for political prisoners

Member organisations of the International Partnership Group for Azerbaijan (IPGA) are deeply concerned by the continued politically motivated imprisonment of persons for exercising their right to freedom of expression.

Ecuador

WAN-IFRA denounces government's authoritarian turn

The WAN-IFRA report reveals that the Ecuadorean government is "establishing a strict control over all arenas of public debate, while couching this in a debate centred around media plurality".

International

UN agency's member states urged to guarantee freedom of information

International Telecommunication Union (ITU) member states are meeting in Geneva this week to adopt decisions about the agency’s future and about the development of information and communication technologies (ICTs) worldwide.

International / Awards

Oxfam Novib/PEN Awards celebrate writers against the odds

Iranian journalist, blogger and activist Asieh Amini was one of six writers who received the awards in a ceremony in The Hague as part of the Writers Unlimited Winter Nights Festival.

Burma

RSF releases video interviews with recently freed journalists and blogger

Journalists U Zeya and Sithu Zeya, and blogger Nay Phone Latt, all of whom were released from jail on 13 January, discuss their prison experiences.

Joint action - Bahrain

International Mission to Bahrain Report says promises for reform unfulfilled, while situation deteriorates

A report from a six-member mission of international organisations to Bahrain last November called out Bahraini authorities for failing to deliver on promises of reform, with rights violations continuing on a daily basis and rights activists jailed for life.

Yemen

IFJ cautiously welcomes statements by authorities, calls for implementation

Authorities promised to restore press freedom in the country and guarantee the safety of journalists, and assured journalists’ leaders and the IFJ that the government will review the restrictions on media, including the ban on Al Jazeera and the "Al Ayyan" newspaper.

International

Columnist David Rohde is IPI's 63rd World Press Freedom Hero

The committee noted that Rohde and his colleagues frequently reported “under perilous conditions”, a statement given further weight when it was revealed months later that Rohde, at the time of the award, was again being held in captivity.

Joint action - Tunisia

IFEX-TMG calls for recent public media appointments to be revoked and for journalists' protection

On the anniversary of the revolution, IFEX-TMG urges the Tunisian government to revoke controversial appointments giving media personnel close to the deposed President key posts in the public service media, and further calls for an end to attacks on journalists.

Tunisia

On the first anniversary of the revolution, RSF writes an open letter to the authorities

While some progress has been made as regards drafting legislation and creating new media, RSF is concerned to see an increase in pressure on journalists and media.

International

RSF revives tourist awareness campaign

With the backdrop of a simulated beach in Paris' main shopping area, RSF activists drew residents’ attention to the lack of freedom of information in popular tourist destinations such as Thailand, Vietnam and Mexico.

Turkey

Academics oppose Internet filtering in universities

A signature campaign launched by more than one hundred academics is opposing attempts to recognise universities as public places where the Internet may be filtered.

Vietnam / Europe and Central Asia

European Union urged to press Vietnam to respect human rights

EU officials should use a 12 January dialogue in Hanoi to press for progress in the area of respecting freedom of speech and association and releasing dissidents detained for exercising those rights, says Human Rights Watch.

Yemen

Parliament urged to reject immunity law for President Saleh and aides

The sweeping measure could result in impunity for serious international crimes such as deadly attacks on anti-government demonstrators in 2011, says Human Rights Watch.

Joint action - Tunisia

IFEX-TMG concerned by attacks on journalists and academics

IFEX-TMG calls on authorities to do more to stop attacks on freedom of expression.

Americas

IFEX-ALC calls for withdrawal of three recommendations that impact on mandate of free expression rapporteur

The IFEX-ALC calls on members of the OAS Permanent Council, who will meet on 25 January 2012, to withdraw three specific recommendations proposed by a Special Working Group, which if approved could restrict the mandate of the Special Rapporteur for Freedom of Expression.

Syria

RSF launches parody video on censorship

The video shows Siri, whose answers to queries are not always relevant, being completely stumped by questions about current events in Syria because of the government’s news blackout.