Mizzima
On World Press Freedom Day, observed on 3 May, the National Unity Government (NUG) reaffirmed its staunch opposition to any measures that restrict freedom of the press. The NUG emphasized the pivotal role of press freedom in upholding people’s right to information and fostering critical thinking.
As it is the time of resisting the military dictatorship with weapons nationwide, one must correspond with understanding at the time of obtaining information, and the NUG will continue standing firm by their objectives, the Spokesperson of National Unity Government (NUG) Prime Minister Office, Nay Phone Latt, stated.
“However, when it comes to receiving information from the ground, it’s essential to ensure coordinated processes,” said Nay Phone Latt.
In accordance with the Article 42, Chapter (1) of the Federal Democratic Charter, which states “Freedom of news media, right to freedom of information, right to freedom of presenting information must be protected”, the following positions on freedom of the press and news media have been announced.
The NUG firmly recognizes the essential role of a free and independent press and news media in public affairs. Encourages and supports the independent and responsible news media, including regional ethnic media, to stand strong. Opposes restrictions on the freedom of the press, in line with the public’s right to information and promotion of informed public discourse. Opposes actions and restrictions affecting the independence, impartiality and objectivity of the news media. Encourages and supports the strengthening of press freedom. Endeavors to strengthen the public’s right to information. Endeavors to strengthen the right of independent news media to access of information. Opposes intimidation and harassment of journalists and endeavors to protect journalists.
A female official from Exile Hub highlighted the urgent need for an organization to protect the lives of journalists in Myanmar, citing the absence of such support mechanisms.
“The lives of journalists in Myanmar are under constant threat, with the risk of violence looming over them at any moment,” she said.
The official, representing Exile Hub, an organization dedicated to supporting human rights defenders and media professionals stated the longstanding restrictions on press freedom in Myanmar, which persist particularly in ethnic regions.
“Presently, there are ongoing restrictions in areas such as Karen and others. Reporters operating in Karenni have also reported limitations in their working conditions. Similar constraints are observed in Rakhine, where certain information is prohibited from dissemination,” she said.
According to a research report by Exile Hub, 84.8% of expatriated journalists, including female reporters, have left Myanmar due to the severe security threats and direct risks associated with their profession.
“Journalists operating in border areas are compelled to conceal their profession due to safety concerns. Regardless of our location, we continue to face significant security challenges,” said the female official.
Following the military coup in Myanmar, the junta took drastic measures such as revoking the publishing licenses of 14 news media outlets and detaining 169 journalists nationwide, as reported by data collected by Detained Journalists Information Myanmar.
The junta has arrested and incarcerated 62 journalists and media industry workers, marking the highest number of arrests globally, according to a report by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) in April.
Furthermore, Myanmar tops the list of ten countries worldwide posing the greatest threat to press freedom. This ranking is followed by China, North Korea, Vietnam, and Afghanistan, according to the ‘2024 World Press Freedom Index’ published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).
