Journalists still have reason to fear government repression as opening of Burma media hits wall
Journalism and Free Speech articles on Democracy Chronicles
A basic necessity in a democratic society, is journalism and free speech play a central role in creating a system of checks and balance, and in distributing power equally between governments, businesses, individuals, and other social entities. Access to verifiable information gathered by independent media sources, which adhere to journalistic standards, can also be of service to ordinary citizens, by empowering them with the tools they need in order to participate in the political process. Also see our articles on Civil Rights.
Help Build a Memorial Honoring Danny Schechter
A memorial was held yesterday at Judson Memorial Church on the birthday of Daniel Isaac “Danny” Schechter, The News Dissector, who died from pancreatic cancer and was an American television producer, independent filmmaker, blogger, media critic, activist and supporter of Occupy Wall Street.
Egyptian Journalism Suffers Campaign of Arrests
Worst crisis for Egyptian journalism in decades as eighteen arrested in short span of crackdown
Flowering Burma Artists Breathe New Freedoms
With worst of dictatorship apparently over, growth is in cards for new generation of Burma artists
Kuwait Women’s Activist Sentenced For Insulting Emir
Court sentences Rana Jassem al-Sadoun for political criticism during work for Kuwait women’s rights
Family of Saudi Blogger Raif Badawi Wait For News
Sentenced to 1000 lashes of whip in Saudi Arabia, Raif Badawi’s family hopes for news of clemency
Militarized Russian Music Scene is Worrying Sign
Overreach of government propaganda into Russian music is sign of a drift back to Soviet era control
Russian Exiled Journalists Keep Pressure on Putin
As pressure on media increases, increasing number of Russian exiled journalists keep hopes alive
Tanzania Media Law Draws International Concern
Journalism watchdogs worry that the new restrictions on Tanzania media will have chilling effect
News Corp Turnover Could Be Game-Changer at Fox News
Change at one of the biggest media companies to follow Murdoch’s News Corp turnover announcement