The government of President Daniel Ortega has begun a sweeping crackdown against the free press and activists in Nicaragua.
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.
EU Leaders Call for Steps to Tackle Election Disinformation
With European Union elections closing in, EU leaders are calling for measures to tackle the deliberate spread of disinformation.
Worries About Pakistan Free Speech as 18 International NGOs Expelled
Global human rights groups have expressed grave concern over the expulsion of 18 international non-governmental organisations (INGOs) from Pakistan.
Bangladesh Crackdown Intensifies as Elections Loom
Bangladesh security forces have been arresting, intimidating opposition figures and threatening freedom of expression in advance of national elections.
Malta Institutions Under Scrutiny After Journalist’s Murder
Island nation of Malta needs better checks and balances, with prime minister’s powers currently eclipsing other institutions and after journalists murder.
Putin Declares Intent to Control Rap Music in Russia
Alarmed by the growing popularity of rap among Russian youth, Putin wants cultural leaders to devise a means of controlling the popular music.
Brazil Should End Use of Criminal Defamation to Persecute Journalists
Brazilian authorities should cease prosecuting journalists for defamation and repeal the country’s outdated criminal defamation laws.
Report Outlines Journalists Intimidation and Prison in Violent 2018
A multi pronged crackdown on the press continued throughout 2018, the Committee to Protect Journalists concludes in a report published Thursday.
Singapore Urged to Drop Defamation Charges Against Editor
Singapore authorities should drop criminal defamation charges against Terry Xu of The Online Citizen for publishing a letter about government corruption.
Myanmar Activists Stage Rally on Anniversary of Reporters’ Arrest
Myanmar activists stage rally on anniversary of Reuters reporters’ arrest in a landmark free speech case by releasing balloons in a rally at Yangon.