More than 30 journalists and publishers are due to face court Monday over their coverage of Cardinal George Pell’s trial for child sex abuse.
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.
Myanmar Court Rejects Final Appeal By Reuters’ Journalists
CPJ expressed deep disappointment today after the Myanmar Supreme Court upheld Reuters’ journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo’s convictions.
Iran Sinks in Press Freedom Index After Jailing More Journalists
Reporters Without Borders says Iran has Sinks in Press Freedom Index After an increase in arrests of Iranian journalists and citizen-journalists.
Podcast: E.J. Dionne on Making America Empathetic Again
E.J. Dionne has the unique perspective of studying the horse race and the big picture of American politics. I talked with him about the relationship between partisan politics and democracy.
Jailed Iranian Journalist Gets Appeal Hearing After Months of Isolation
Iranian court has held appeal hearing for jailed Iranian journalist and rights activist who faces 12-year prison sentence for criticizing Iran’s judiciary.
Study: Authoritarian Leaders Fuel Hatred Toward Journalists Worldwide
A report concludes disdain for journalists throughout the world has increased during the past year, due primarily to the behavior of authoritarian leaders.
New Regulations Improve the Vietnam Law on Access to Information
New Vietnam regulations improve the law on access to information scoring from 69 to 76 points out of a possible total of 150 points on the RTI Rating.
Free Prominent UAE Human Rights Defender Ahmed Mansoor
Take action this week to help save life of imprisoned human rights defender and blogger Ahmed Mansoor, on hunger strike for a month in the UAE.
Brazil Supreme Court’s Attempt to Silence Critics Draws Fire
Brazil’s Supreme Court drew fire silencing its critics with confidential criminal case targeting press, pundits on social media and a retired Army general.
Myanmar Leader Pardons 9,500 Prisoners but not 2 Reporters
More than 9,500 prisoners released Wednesday in Myanmar under a presidential amnesty, but they did not include two Pulitzer Prize-winning Reuters reporters.