President Putin has signed legislation enabling Russian authorities to block websites and punishment for “fake news” and material deemed insulting .
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.
Rights Activists Denounce China’s Xinjiang White Paper
China has released a lengthy white paper that seeks to justify its anti-terrorism fight and de-radicalization measures in the western region of Xinjiang.
Egypt Tightens Restrictions on Media and Social Networks
Egypt’s top media regulator tightens restrictions on social media accounts with over 5,000 followers if they are deemed a threat to national security.
Tribunal Sentences Journalist for Criticizing Lebanese Security Agency
The sentencing of Lebanese TV correspondent Adam Chamseddine to three months in jail for “insulting” a security agency in a Facebook post .
Russian Lawmakers Speed to Punish Criticism of the Government
Ahead of a vote in Russia’s Federation Council on legislation dramatically increasing fines for online publication of alleged “fake news” and online speech .
Mozambique Children’s March for Free Speech Broken up by Police
Authorities in Mozambique’s capital, Maputo, shut down one march and initially blocked another in the latest onslaught against free expression in country.
Decline in Readers, Ads Leads Hundreds of Newspapers to Fold
Newspaper circulation in U.S. has declined every year for three decades, while ads revenue has nosedived since 2006, according to the Pew Research Center.
Germany Criticizes Turkey’s Treatment of Foreign Journalists
Germany criticizes Turkey’s treatment of foreign journalists saying that such actions were “not compatible with our understanding of press freedom.”
Proposed Nepal Social Media Law Threatens Freedom of Expression
A new restrictive law introduced by Nepalese government gives authorities powers to block social media platforms and remove or criminalise defamatory posts.
Sunshine Week Puts Spotlight on Accessing Government Information
Sunday marks the start of Sunshine Week, an effort to highlight the role of freedom of information at all levels of the U.S. government.