[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.48)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9PW2H6-Bangladeshi-Hindus-stage-a-demonstration-in-Dhaka-in-October-2021-Munir-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9XE9MK-mural-to-spread-awareness-on-Covid-19-in-Mumbai-on-January-29-2022-Punit-PARANJPE-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9AP846-Nepalese-Students-Union-carry-effigy-of-President-Bidhya-Devi-Bhandari-and-PM-Sharma-Oli-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP-e1650512087636.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_220324-Danish-Siddiqui.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_324V7C7-Uttar-Pradesh-state-Yogi-Adityanath-after-Bharatiya-Janata-Partys-BJP-win-in-the-state-assembly-elections-SANJAY-KANOJIA-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_210914-Journalists-participated-a-sit-in-demonstration-to-protest-against-the-PMDA-bill-.-Photo-Credit-RIUJ-e1650512739116.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”554.9px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ min_height=”131px” custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”57px|||||” border_style_all=”none”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” min_height=”65px” border_width_bottom=”5px” border_style_bottom=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Overview<\/strong><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nBearing Witness<\/h3>\n
South Asia witnessed major political and economic upheaval this past year, even as the region was slowly emerging from the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic. While 23 journalists lost their lives and others were subjected to more than 60 attacks by the police, armed militia, vigilante mobs, politicians, local mafia and others, the broader political events continued to impact the security of journalists and their ability to carry out their professional duties.<\/p>\n
From the takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban in August 2021, to the massive democratic protests against the Sri Lankan government in April 2022 that led the country into its worst economic crisis since independence in 1948, the media in South Asia has borne witness to some watershed moments in history, taking severe beatings but also standing strong to speak truth to power.<\/p>\n
Afghanistan endured the grimmest of periods, with the hasty withdrawal of NATO troops in the country after two decades of war, accompanied by the inexorable takeover of the country by the Taliban, province by province, leading up to the eventual capitulation of Kabul on August 15, 2021. While targeted killings of journalists in the country declined, routine harassment, intimidation and even torture of independent media have continued unabated. Unsurprisingly, job losses have been dire. At particular risk are those journalists belonging to minority communities and women, who were swiftly restricted or banned from working. Close to 600 journalists have now reportedly fled the country, hoping to build new lives for themselves and continue to tell the stories of their people.<\/p>\n
In December 2021, Bangladesh\u2019s landmark 50 years of independence marking the day that the country\u2019s people achieved liberation, was over-shadowed by the ongoing climate of fear that continues to aggressively curtail freedom of expression nationally.<\/p>\n
Across South Asia, the stifling of free speech overall and the harsh consequences for those who speak out was an overwhelming reality across the region. With the large youthful populations of India, Pakistan and other countries in the region taking to the digital space, government and corporate control over the sphere has emerged as a critical and serious concern for media sustainability.<\/p>\n
In Nepal, parliamentary and provincial elections scheduled for late 2022 are set to determine the government for the next five years and will also shape the future of the legal and regulatory environment for the media. The current trend of media-related laws constricting free speech in Nepal is leading to an environment of self-censorship and one that is being fiercely challenged by Nepal\u2019s defiant and robust media collective.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
The media in South Asia has borne witness to some watershed moments in history, taking severe beatings but also standing strong to speak truth to power.\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”SRI LANKA-POLITICS-ECONOMY-PROTEST” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
As Sri Lanka grapples with its worst economic crisis in memory, demonstrations in Colombo and across the Island have demanded the government\u2019s resignation. Credit: Ishara S. Kodikara \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nVirtual Control<\/h3>\n
Controlling the online space was a preoccupation of governments across the region.<\/p>\n
Bangladesh saw a stupendous ninefold increase in 2021 over the previous year, in cases filed under its stringent Digital Security Act (DSA) for alleged online criticism of officials, including the prime minister and the country\u2019s founder. In the face of criticism of the DSA and its propensity to criminalise free speech \u2013 an admission made by Bangladesh\u2019s Law Minister himself \u2013 the authorities promised to enact a Data Protection Act. However, the proposed draft contains vague terminology and gives the government arbitrary power to penalise users of the digital space. \u00a0<\/p>\n
Likewise in Sri Lanka, where the parliament in March 2022 passed the Personal Data Protection Bill, concerns have been expressed about the impact of the new law on media reporting and the severe restrictions on the right to information. Critics say the bill could hamper reporting on issues such as corruption, and new provisions on \u2018official secrecy\u2019 could restrict the public\u2019s right to information. The provision empowering the concerned minister to appoint any government institution as the Data Protection Authority (DPA), raises concerns about the autonomy of the institution.<\/p>\n
In Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers were subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, with ill-defined provisions that allow arbitrary penalties to be slapped on those deemed to have crossed the line.<\/p>\n
In Nepal, bills sitting at the federal and provincial levels and awaiting determination do not bode well for press freedom. The Information Technology Bill, the Nepal Media Council Bill, and the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, are all in the pipeline despite concerns raised by stakeholders about the potential of these proposed laws to criminalise journalism itself.<\/p>\n
In early April, in a win for advocates of free speech and in response to a petition filed by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), the Islamabad High Court declared the problematic amendment to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) null and void.<\/p>\n
The collusion between governments and social media conglomerates was exposed in a series of investigative articles by India-based The Reporters Collective<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0Ad Watch,\u00a0<\/em>and published by Al Jazeera\u00a0in March 2022. The investigation found that the Facebook advertisement platform \u201csystematically undercut political competition\u201d in India, giving the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) an \u201cunfair advantage\u201d over other political competitors in the elections. The analysis was based on an examination of 500,000 political advertisements placed on Facebook and Instagram between February 2019 and November 2020 \u2014 during which India\u2019s 2019 General Elections and nine State Assembly elections were held. It also analysed how these unfairly promoted the BJP\u2019s campaigns on the platform.<\/p>\nGovernment propensity to monitor and regulate their citizens was a running theme for the region. India was one of 50 countries where citizens were subjected to surveillance by the spyware Pegasus manufactured by the Israeli group NSO and sold only to governments.<\/p>\n
The data analysed by The Wire<\/em>, part of the international collaboration between French non-profit Forbidden Stories, Amnesty International and 16 media organisations titled \u201cPegasus Project\u201d and released in July 2021, showed that most were targeted between 2018 and 2019, in the run-up to general elections in India. At least 40 Indian journalists are said to be among 300 others targeted, including a Supreme Court judge.<\/p>\nAllegations by the Opposition in Sri Lanka also raised concerns about the use of Pegasus to spy on journalists in the country. Digital security concerns have now become intrinsically part of overall safety and security concerns for journalists in South Asia.<\/p>\n
Misinformation and fake news during the Covid-19 pandemic, which admittedly created public health concerns, was often used as a justification for government control of the media. In Bhutan, the government tightly controlled the media narrative, often in a heavy-handed manner, regulating what and when to report, in the guise of fighting misinformation. On some occasions, the seeming conflict between the right to health and collective rights and press freedom swung in favour of censorship and control.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
In Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers have been subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_324V7C7-Uttar-Pradesh-state-Yogi-Adityanath-after-Bharatiya-Janata-Partys-BJP-win-in-the-state-assembly-elections-SANJAY-KANOJIA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-POLITICS-VOTE” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Supporters of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrate outside the party office in Lucknow on March 10, 2022, on the day of counting of votes for the Uttar Pradesh state assembly elections. Credit: Sanjay Kanojia \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nDealing with hate speech<\/h3>\n
What is clear is that the media in South Asia is going through severe trials and tribulations, battling deep economic crises as well as political polarisation, all of which threaten media freedom and media\u2019s very existence.<\/p>\n
In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that the online spread of hate and misinformation is a profitable business. When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/p>\n
However, in the guise of preventing misinformation, over regulation of content is compromising media freedom. India\u2019s Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, are an example of that overreach. Unfettered powers and misuse by the government were displayed in the blacking out of channels for alleged \u201csecurity\u201d reasons.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Similar overreach is also feared in Pakistan with the introduction in November 2021 of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act, with the purported aim of providing a defence mechanism for journalists. The controversial Section 6 prohibits journalists from \u201cspreading false information\u201d, and producing material that \u201cadvocates hatred\u201d, or constitutes \u201cincitement to discrimination, hostility or violence\u201d. Such vague definitions have the precise potential for the government to excessively regulate online content.<\/p>\n
In the Maldives, new hate speech provisions were added in November 2021 to the penal code to criminalise accusations of apostasy, unless a person explicitly renounces Islam. A section that prohibits \u201ccriticism of Islam in a public medium with the intention of causing disregard\u201d was amended to also criminalise publicly insulting or disparaging the Quran, God or Prophet Mohamed. The new provision adds to the 2008 Maldives constitution that outlaws speech that is “contrary to any tenet of Islam\u201d.<\/p>\n
The country maintains reservations to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights’ Article 18 on freedom of thought, conscience and religion, while the Communications Authority of Maldives regularly blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Compounded with that, the ongoing fear and threat of attacks by vigilante groups is continuing to encourage self-censorship on digital platforms.<\/p>\n
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When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_220324-Danish-Siddiqui.jpg” title_text=”Memorial for Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(0,0,0,0)” min_height=”529px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Candles are placed by colleagues next to a portrait of Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui, who was killed in the crossfire while covering a fierce battle between Afghan security forces and Taliban militants on July 16, 2021. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nStruggle for survival<\/h3>\n
For the media in South Asia, the year was not only one of maintaining high standards of journalistic content, but also one where the sheer struggle to survive was paramount.<\/p>\n
The media in Afghanistan was all but decimated, with more than 300 media outlets shut down, and unable to continue operations due to severe economic unviability and the collapse of much-needed foreign funds after the Taliban claimed control.<\/p>\n
Even in relatively peaceful Bhutan, the media has barely managed to survive. Repeated lockdowns during the pandemic brought to the fore the media\u2019s over reliance on government advertising which continued to decline due to the overall sluggish economy. Austerity measures adopted by most media houses included cutting down on staff and field reporting. They were forced to rely on government hand-outs, a move that directly impacted media freedom. Many senior and trained professionals left the industry and many newsrooms dwindled to just an editor and two or three reporters.<\/p>\n
The lasting effects of the pandemic were seen in the media industry in India where the economic downturn led to loss of advertising revue. Over-dependence on government advertisements was linked to self-censorship and patterning news content to suit the ruling dispensation. The crisis has seen a shift in the revenue models from advertisement-led to paid content, with more and more legacy media instituting paywalls and subscription-driven models.<\/p>\n
The Nepali media too staggered. Under the weight of the economic crisis, journalists\u2019 job security was one of the focus areas of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), which negotiated with media houses, staged protests and used the courts to assert labour rights, with some success.<\/p>\n
Interestingly, the pandemic years saw the growth of niche digital news outlets producing special focus stories and highlighting issues and regions forgotten by the mainstream media. Clearly, the message for media\u2019s sustainability is that readers need to pay for independent news and reportage that accurately reflects ground realities in all their complexity. The newer digital platforms also appear to be building newsrooms that are diverse and inclusive, representing marginalised sections beyond mere tokensim.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_210914-Journalists-participated-a-sit-in-demonstration-to-protest-against-the-PMDA-bill-.-Photo-Credit-RIUJ-e1650512739116.jpg” title_text=”OVER_210914 Journalists participated a ‘sit in’ demonstration to protest against the PMDA bill . Photo Credit RIUJ” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Pakistani journalists participate in a \u2018sit in\u2019 demonstration from September 12-13, 2021, in protest against the proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) bill, which aimed to establish a sole authority to regulate all film, electronic, print and digital media. Credit: RIUJ<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”7px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nAway from home<\/h3>\n
The year 2021 was particularly difficult for journalists in Afghanistan and parts of India such as Jammu and Kashmir. Many reporters were silenced due to pressure from the authorities while to many others were forced to leave their homes and even countries due to security reasons.<\/p>\n
The starkest example was that of Afghan journalists, many who were forced to flee their \u00a0homes and families overnight. The unplanned and sudden exodus saw many journalists living for months in camps in third countries, uncertain about their futures. Some in their new homes, while adjusting to new cultures and languages, are still awaiting work-permits and outlets for their journalistic output. Several Afghan women journalists, who left after being targeted by the Taliban, hope to continue to raise issues for Afghan women.<\/p>\n
The repression in Jammu and Kashmir over the past year led several Kashmiri journalists to leave the state. Intimidation, harassment and implication in fake cases has become almost routine, hampering the media from doing its job. The arrest of some of the more vocal journalists sent a chilling message to the media community, which has a tough choice between self-censorship and jail.<\/p>\n
The political crisis in Myanmar had a spill over effect in neighbouring India, which has long been home to exiled Burmese journalists. In April 2021, three journalists who worked with Mizzima, a multimedia news organisation who had taken refuge in the bordering Indian state of Manipur were in danger of being sent back to Myanmar where they would face a jail term or worse. In a show of solidarity, the All Manipur Working Journalists\u2019 Union (AMWJU) took up advocacy on behalf of the journalists to allow them to remain. An Indian court later granted them sanctuary.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-AFGHANISTAN-CONFLICT-PROTEST” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Afghans residing in India protest the Taliban\u2019s military takeover of Afghanistan outside the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) office in New Delhi on August 23, 2021. Across South Asia, displays of international solidarity marked a collective denigration of Afghanistan\u2019s new regime. Credit: Sajjad HUSSAIN \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nHope from the judiciary<\/h3>\n
With governments in the region trampling upon citizens\u2019 rights, the judiciary in many countries stepped in to uphold constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of speech and expression and freedom of the press.<\/p>\n
In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government. In petitions challenging the government\u2019s illegal surveillance, in the wake of the Pegasus investigation in July 2021, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India, NV Ramana said, \u201callegations are serious if the reports are correct\u2026The truth has to come out\u201d.<\/p>\n
In Pakistan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in a landmark ruling in April 2022, struck down criminal defamation in the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act, a decisive order in favour of press freedom. The IHC by converting letters by the PFUJ regarding illegal terminations, irregular salaries and safety issues into petitions, is another positive move towards journalists\u2019 rights.<\/p>\n
In some cases, lower courts pushing for rule of law also came as a welcome step. A local court directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan to ensure filing of investigation reports in court regarding 1,200 pending inquiries relating to online harassment, identity theft, pornography and other offences registered in Karachi.<\/p>\n
In the Maldives, on January 19, 2022, a criminal court found two men guilty of murdering blogger Yameen Rasheed in 2017 and sentenced them to life imprisonment. The police said that the group of radicalised young men\u00a0believed\u00a0that Yameen deserved to be killed for \u201cinsulting Islam\u201d. Although the trial was bumpy, witnesses were intimidated and the authorities\u2019 professionalism was called into question, that an indictment of the perpetrators was reached is a step forward.<\/p>\n
Likewise, the April 13, 2022, verdict of a Dhaka court sentencing to death four of those accused of murdering eminent secular writer Professor Humayun Azad in 2004 provides a hope that the wheels of justice are turning, albeit very slowly.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9AP846-Nepalese-Students-Union-carry-effigy-of-President-Bidhya-Devi-Bhandari-and-PM-Sharma-Oli-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP-e1650512087636.jpg” title_text=”NEPAL-POLITICS-PROTEST2″ force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Members of the Nepalese Students Union carry an effigy of President Bidhya Devi Bhandri and Prime Minister Sharma Oli on May 25, 2021, after Nepal’s parliament was dissolved for the second time in just five months. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nUN Special Rapporteurs speak<\/h3>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern. Highlighting the harassment of journalists in Jammu and Kashmir, the UN Special Rapporteur on promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan, and Elina Steinert, the vice-chair of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention in June 3, 2021, urged, \u201call necessary interim measures be taken to halt the alleged violations and prevent their re-occurrence and in the event that the investigations support or suggest the allegations to be correct, to ensure the accountability of any person(s) responsible for the alleged violations,\u201d The report cited examples of\u00a0jailed journalists and the use of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and other counter-terror laws on journalists.<\/p>\n
In March 2022, \u00a0UN human rights experts including from the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances<\/a><\/span>, Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions<\/a><\/span>; Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders<\/a><\/span> and the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression<\/a><\/span> called upon Bangladesh to \u201cimmediately cease reprisals against human rights defenders and relatives of forcibly disappeared persons for their activism and co-operation with international human rights bodies and UN mechanisms.\u201d This statement was issued following the threats and intimidation of civil society and human rights defender after the announcement of sanctions imposed by the United States of America against top Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) officials on December 10, 2021.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/p>\nRight to information<\/h3>\n
Access to information has always been a thorny issue in the region, with most governments refusing to be transparent or accountable. The arrest of Bangladeshi journalist Rozina Islam in April 2021 under the Official Secrets Actis was a stark example of how a journalist seeking to investigate suspected corruption into the country\u2019s health ministry was not only denied access to information but was also penalised for it.<\/p>\n
Even in the Maldives, where its Right to Information Act ranks 16th out of 128 RTI laws in the world, things are not smooth: the country\u2019s third Information Commissioner took up his post in September 2021, nearly seven months after the former commissioner resigned.<\/span><\/p>\nIn Pakistan, a <\/span>February 2022, amendment to the cybercrimes law, PECA also threatened the right to information. But a progressive ruling by the Islamabad High Court declared the entire ordinance unconstitutional, thus protecting the Right to Information guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9XE9MK-mural-to-spread-awareness-on-Covid-19-in-Mumbai-on-January-29-2022-Punit-PARANJPE-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-HEALTH-VIRUS” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
India\u2019s intense struggle with Covid-19 is evident as pedestrians pass a mural depicting Mexican painter Frida Kahlo wearing a facemask in Mumbai on January 29, 2022. Credit: Punit Paranjpe \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nGender inequity<\/h3>\n
The sharp decline in gender equity was nowhere starker than in Afghanistan, where women journalists were denied their right to work and be active in the public sphere. The forced retreat has undone two decades of work in enhancing gender equity in the Afghan media.<\/p>\n
The November 2021 regulation issued by the Taliban government with 11 \u2018rules\u2019, urging the media to refrain from broadcasting TV programs and dramas which featured women meant that women have almost disappeared from public view, except in roles and attire approved by the Taliban. Women journalists, like all professional Afghan women, were prohibited from driving alone, their mobility tied to the presence of a male family member.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile outspoken women journalists in Pakistan faced intense online harassment, including being trolled by even senior government officials who joined the online intimidation and bullying.<\/p>\n
In India, the battle to push women out of the online space was unrelenting. Vicious online abuse, trolling, death and rape threats were particularly severe for Dalit and Muslim women who were regularly silenced and abused. In July 2021, an online \u2018auction\u2019 of prominent Muslim women, including journalists called \u2018Sulli deals\u2019 and once more in early 2022 called \u2018Bulli Bai\u2019 (\u2018Sulli\u2019 and \u2018Bulli\u2019 are derogatory slang for Muslim women) was launched. The Internet Freedom Foundation called the fake online auction of almost 100 Muslim women a \u201cblatant violation of their data security and privacy rights.\u201d These online apps on the GitHub platform, profiling Muslim women activists, journalists, analysts, artists and researchers were taken down after vigorous protests.<\/p>\n
The good news is that for every violation of women journalists\u2019 rights, there has been an equally strong resistance.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9PW2H6-Bangladeshi-Hindus-stage-a-demonstration-in-Dhaka-in-October-2021-Munir-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg” title_text=”BANGLADESH-RELIGION-HINDUISM-PROTEST” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Bangladeshi Hindus stage a demonstration in Dhaka on October 18, 2021 to protest against the fresh religious violence against Hindus in the country. Credit: Munir Uz Zaman \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”4px||9px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” custom_margin=”1px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\n<\/h3>\nWay forward<\/h3>\n
The bleak post-pandemic year has held many lessons for the media in the region. The first is that of sustainability and survival, and the need to diversify and remain relevant. Simultaneously it is also about lobbying for journalists\u2019 rights \u2013 on the streets, in boardrooms and in courts.<\/p>\n
The other is the importance of solidarity and leveraging networks to support media colleagues both within and across borders. The need to speak out and act has never been as important at a time when hyper nationalism is making states fold in unto themselves. In the case of Afghan journalists, for example, there is a need for intervention on several fronts \u2013 from financial assistance to capacity building and supporting those in exile. The international media community must continue to train the spotlight on the crisis of the media in Afghanistan and extend long term support and solidarity.<\/p>\n
The focus must also remain on Sri Lanka, where the economic crisis is likely to be long drawn out, and media freedoms likely to be compromised as the state attempts to repair the damage. International solidarity at such a time is crucial.<\/p>\n
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Click here to download pdf of Overview and Special Reports<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Feature Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#e5e5e5″ module_alignment=”center” min_height=”238px” height=”331px” max_height=”486px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|-3px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” top_divider_style=”arrow2″ top_divider_color=”#FFFFFF”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ admin_label=”Stats” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ width=”77.3%” custom_padding=”115px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Media Rights Violations” number=”210″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#999999″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Jailed or Detained” number=”60″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#E09900″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Killings” number=”23″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#FF0000″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=”Fullwidth Slider” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”50px” header_letter_spacing=”0px” background_image=”http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg” background_position=”center” module_alignment=”center” min_height=”427px” custom_padding=”357px||395px|||” animation_style=”fade” auto=”on”][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”] THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.48)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"\n
[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=\"Fullwidth Slider\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"50px\" header_letter_spacing=\"7px\" background_image=\"http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg\" background_position=\"center\" module_alignment=\"center\" min_height=\"590px\" animation_style=\"fade\" auto=\"on\"][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_93J7LL-Dissolution-of-parliament-Nepal-protest-Prakash-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_92U7LM-Mock-funeral-for-sexual-assaults-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_94J2MF-Tashnuva-Anan-Shishir-Bangladesh-transgender-news-host-Munir-Uz-zaman-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/BANG_000_93Z8WT-Bangladesh-protest-Mushtaq-Ahmed-Munir-death-in-custody-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Maldives\/A-Covid-19-press-briefing-by-President-Solih-on-June-23-Credit-President_s-Office-2-scaled.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/AFG000_94J2MK-International-womens-day-Afghanistan-WAKIL-KOHSAR-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/LAW_000_8Z94D9-Afghan-President-Ashraf-Ghani-arrives-in-Herat-January-2021-HOSHANG-HASHIMI-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" min_height=\"1286.7px\" custom_margin=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" min_height=\"131px\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"57px|||||\" border_style_all=\"none\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" min_height=\"65px\" border_width_bottom=\"5px\" border_style_bottom=\"solid\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]Overview<\/strong><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_4\" admin_label=\"quote\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" animation_style=\"fade\"][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"3px|||||\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" width=\"97.3%\" min_height=\"1217px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<\/h1>\nPandemic, the Press and the New Digital Order<\/h3>\n
As the second wave of the Covid pandemic surged across South Asia in early 2021, journalists found themselves in the thick of the storm, without a safety net and scant institutional support. Battling not only the deadly virus, they mounted stiff resistance to states trying to control the narrative and plaster over the horrific reality. Journalists breaking stories of rising deaths, collapsing health systems and unpreparedness and mismanagement at the highest levels of government were silenced, hounded, arrested and penalised.<\/p>\n
Even as journalists also mourned the loss of their colleagues and family members, they continued to work in the most challenging circumstances to publicise the truth. They reported from the frontlines without adequate protective equipment, exposing themselves to infection to tell stories of the suffering in hospitals, in graveyards and crematoria. Many fell ill, many others continue to suffer from the long-term impacts of the Covid syndrome. Hundreds of others succumbed, unsung heroic storytellers of the apocalypse that engulfed them.<\/p>\n
To many others continued to tell one of the biggest stories of our times, while also enduring salary cuts and delays in wage payments, denial of protective personal equipment, medical insurance or reimbursement of massive medical bills to treat Covid contracted in the line of duty. Huge numbers of media workers were also rendered jobless or forced to resign in the wake of economic impacts of Covid-19. reeling under arrests and cases of sedition and terror, unrelenting trolling and abuse online, they wrote on. Some wrote on, even without a job or payment.<\/p>\n
Charges of \u201canti-national\u201d, \u201cagainst national security\u201d were widely used to curb dissent through archaic laws of sedition and colonial era laws of epidemic control. With courts admitting petitions challenging the constitutionality of some of these laws, there is reason to hope for change.<\/p>\n
The raging pandemic, accompanying lockdowns and economic crises were only piled on to existing barriers that the region\u2019s journalists already faced. Physical attacks and intimidation, lack of access to information, control and censorship; sharpened ethnic and religious cleavages; legal repercussions for their stories and an overall precarity of the media. Impunity for crimes against journalists continued, despite small gains. Yet, journalists bore witness and told the stories that needed to be told, with professional integrity, compassion and deep humanity.<\/p>\n
Regional trends<\/h3>\nTightening regulation and digital controls<\/h4>\n
Controlling the flow of information seemed to be an overriding preoccupation of governments across the region. From reigning in the burgeoning independent digital media and clamping down on critical voices on social media, governments and social media platforms fell short of upholding freedom of expression at a critical juncture.<\/p>\n
At a time when the free flow of information was literally a matter of life and death, governments intolerant of critical questions, tended to use the pandemic as a pretext to curb information, and any opinion that was deemed \u201canti-government\u201d. Social media presented a particular anxiety for governments trying to curb dissent, and unfortunately, social media giants did not adequately protect citizen\u2019s right to free speech, instead complying with unreasonable takedown notices from governments.<\/p>\n
Pakistan<\/strong> suffered under the harshest clampdown on dissent by any government. Media rights and freedom of expression took a severe beating, with the government seemingly leaping at the opportunity to deprive the media of both freedom and funds, driving an already beleaguered media industry into deeper crisis.\u00a0 The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) which criminalises free speech and gives overarching powers to law enforcement authorities, was overused in Pakistan to clamp down on free speech. The media, political opponents, activists and members of the public found the boundaries of free speech indiscriminately scrunched in violation of constitutional guarantees.<\/p>\nArbitrary blocking of independent websites, internet and communication shutdowns were regularly deployed to censor the media. This inevitably led to the proliferation of misinformation \u2013 which Pakistan could ill-afford in the midst of not only the pandemic, but civil strife and political upheaval.\u00a0 Cutting off connectivity in politically sensitive areas in an attempt to censor news had other adverse effects during the lockdown, mainly on health and education.<\/p>\n
In Bangladesh<\/strong>, it took the tragic custodial death in February 2021, of writer Mushtaq Ahmed incarcerated for ten months and repeatedly denied bail, to once more shine the spotlight on the draconian Digital Security Act (DSA) which has been widely used against journalists, bloggers and citizens to penalise free speech and critical opinion. The lone Cyber Crimes Tribunal, reeling under a staggering pending case load can barely manage due process in hearing cases, leave aside render justice.<\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, besides the time-honoured tactic of internet shutdowns to cut communications, the newly promulgated Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 gave the government the power to censor, order takedowns and block content without any recourse to appeal. Independent digital platforms termed the rules not just unconstitutional, but a blow to democracy itself, and have challenged this attempt at over-regulation in the highest court in the country. In addition to its attempt to control independent digital media, fast emerging as major players in the media landscape, the Indian government came down strongly on social media expression deemed to be critical of the government\u2019s handling of the pandemic. In the same vein, the new media Policy in Jammu and Kashmir (downgraded from state to centrally administered union territory in April 2019), issued in June 2020, was immediately viewed with disquiet by journalists, given that it empowers government officers to take action on \u201cfake news\u201d or \u201canti-national content\u201d.<\/p>\nAllegations of misinformation and rumour mongering were thrown at journalists and even citizens exposing the horrific ground reality of acute shortage of medical supplies, oxygen, overflowing hospitals and crematoria. Significantly, while content critical of the government was taken down, virulent hate speech against minorities and misogynist speech online thrived in India. Social media platforms Twitter and Facebook too succumbed to takedown requests by the government, failing to stand up for free speech.<\/p>\n
Across the region, governments displayed a remarkable disrespect towards the media, and took steps to increase regulation. In Nepal<\/strong>, the government moved ahead with tougher bills and regulations such as the Media Council Bill, the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, the Information Technology Bill, and the Special Service Bill \u2013 all of which have clauses that could undermine press freedom. The clampdown on social media has been proposed on pretexts of the \u201ccountry\u2019s sovereignty, security, unity or harmony\u201d. The Media Council Bill could erode the autonomy of the media, with government-appointed regulators, a provision that has been vehemently opposed by media rights organisations.<\/p>\nThe international norm of self-regulation by media was also violated in Sri Lanka<\/strong>, where in January 2021, the Cabinet of Ministers proposed to amend the Press Council Law to include electronic and new media and approved a proposal to \u2018structurally reform and reorganise\u2019 the Press Council to cover electronic and new media. The move was criticised by the Professional Web Journalists' Association which argued that the electronic and new media should be not controlled, but self-regulated with a stringent code of ethics developed by the media community itself.<\/p>\nLivelihood in peril<\/h4>\n
The pandemic year was also witness to dramatic loss of jobs in the media, across the region. Over 8,000 of Pakistan\u2019s<\/strong> estimated 20,000 journalists <\/span>lost their jobs in 2020<\/a> alone, and rural and district staff were more likely to be retrenched.<\/span><\/p>\nJournalists, mainly through the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), remained up in arms for most of the year and in early 2021 launched an \u201cenough is enough\u201d campaign across the country to protest job losses, pay cuts, censorship and rising intimidation. The media industry found new external supporters, including the legal community and civil society in institutional and organised partnerships with PFUJ to jointly resist the rising attacks on media freedoms, journalists\u2019 rights and public interest journalism in Pakistan.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, which saw a series of retrenchments from March 2020 onwards, there are no clear numbers of the job losses or salary cuts. <\/span>Estimates<\/a> put the figures in the thousands. Besides layoffs, salary cuts and delays in payments, media houses also threatened to sack staff if they wanted to work from home. The obstinacy of many managements led to staff in some media houses getting infected with the coronavirus en masse. Journalists from the regional press were harder hit, with fewer paying options than their English media counterparts. <\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) took up more than 500 complaints relating to job loss and non-payment of salary in Nepal<\/strong>. A survey conducted by the <\/span>FNJ in September 2020, revealed the desperate state of Nepal\u2019s journalists: the earning of 40 percent of journalists was affected by the pandemic and the nationwide lockdowns and women journalists were more severely impacted. Several media houses in Kathmandu suspended publications, cut down broadcast hours and decreased the size of the newspapers. The revenue of 75 percent of the once vibrant radio sector decreased due to the pandemic.<\/p>\nThe story was no different in Bangladesh<\/strong> where an estimated 1,250 journalists lost their jobs and several thousand faced salary cuts or irregular payments. While media owners blamed the pandemic for the drop in revenue and resultant salary cuts, trade unionists say that irregular payments were a norm of a section of media houses which then grasped at the pandemic as a justification to deny journalists their rights.<\/p>\nThe pandemic crisis however, only added to existing pressures that journalists across the region face. A major threat being the increasing polarisation on communal lines.<\/span><\/p>\nRising Extremism<\/h4>\n
South Asia has ravaged by religious, ethnic and caste divides for decades, but the growing cleavages of the last few years have been unprecedented. With hyper-nationalist parties in power in many countries in the region drawing votes and support from religiously aligned groups, the polity too has been sharply divided. Minorities in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have been particularly vulnerable, in this context of majoritarian politics. These divisions have inevitably affected the media. While some sections have added to the problem by exacerbating divisions and amplifying hate, others have had to struggle to remain independent.<\/p>\n
Existing fault lines were exacerbated by external situations that are likely to impact the whole region. The proposed withdrawal of US-NATO troops from Afghanistan by the coming September is feared to increase the Taliban's influence in Afghanistan<\/strong>, a development that could have a ripple effect in the region in terms of encouraging radicalism. Hard worn democratic and secular gains could be pushed back, with a direct impact on the media and individual journalists. Likewise, growing communalism in India<\/strong>, encouraged by the government in power, has a dangerous spill over effect in the neighbourhood, contributing to more polarisation and the strengthening of extremist groups. The media cannot be immune from attack, even as it attempts to uphold constitutional values, and the rights of women, minorities and the marginalised.<\/p>\nReligion in the Maldives<\/strong> is a no-go topic in public discourse, and the fear of being labelled anti-Islam contributes to the journalists practicing self-censorship of forgoing bylines while reporting on extremism in the country. As part of official control, the Communications Authority of Maldives blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Though social media use is growing, intimidation and deaths threats pose the greatest challenge for free expression online. The yet unsolved murders of journalist Ahmed Rilwan and blogger Yameen Rashid known for their vocal criticism of religious fundamentalism are grim reminders of the risks of speaking out for religious freedom or minority rights. In its World Report 2021, Human Rights Watch accused the government of failing to confront the influence of hard-line Islamist groups. \u201cOnline intimidation of human rights groups continued to have a chilling effect on civil society in 2020,\u201d and reiterated calls to tackle hate speech and violence online.<\/p>\nThe state response to tackling religious extremism however, often has serious implications for freedom of expression and civil rights. In Sri<\/strong> Lanka<\/strong>, the Prevention of Terrorism (De-radicalisation from Holding Violent Extremist Religious Ideology) Regulations were issued in march 2021, expanding on the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). Powers given to authorities to detain and \u2018rehabilitate\u2019 anyone who \u2018by words either spoken or intended to be read or by signs or by visible representations\u2019 causes the commission of violence or \u2018religious, racial or communal disharmony or feelings of ill will or hostility between different communities or racial or religious groups\u2019 is prone to misuse, fear activists. The spate of arrests in cases of hate speech, mostly of Tamil and Muslim minorities further reinforces this apprehension of selective use of power by law enforcement agencies.<\/p>\nWomen journalists in the firing line<\/h4>\n
The rampant vitriol and violence online were particularly targeted at women journalists in the region. Pakistani<\/strong> women journalists had a rough year, facing unrelenting abuse by organised troll armies, many backed by members of the ruling party, prompting them to release a petition taking the government to account. Similar was the case across the border in India<\/strong>, where online abuse took a heavy toll in an already stressful year of the pandemic. Sexist abuse, misogyny and spillover of online to offline stalking and violence became the price that women journalists paid for speaking out.<\/span><\/p>\nThe marginalised existence of women journalists in South Asia\u2019s media community is itself one of the factors contributing to precarity. A report released in early 2020 by the South Asia Women\u2019s Network, showed that women accounted for only 29 per cent of staff in Maldives<\/strong> media organisations. Only five per cent leadership roles were occupied by women. Paradoxically, the enrolment of women in journalism courses in the Maldives was higher than men at 3:1. This data begs the question: where do these professional women vanish? The answer probably lies in another finding of the study: women face immense discrimination, harassment and bullying at the workplace.<\/p>\nNepali<\/strong> women journalists too faced character assassination, body shaming, speculation about sexual links with prominent men, with women journalists from marginalised communities such as Madhesi and Dalit are more intensive attack. Women journalists fought back, and refused to be silenced, speedily blocking abusers, reporting them and also using aliases to move forward and express themselves online.<\/p>\nPatchy access to information<\/h4>\n
Almost all countries in South Asia sought to tighten controls over access to information, denying journalists a basic tool for accurate reporting. In Afghanistan<\/strong>, despite an Access to Information Law passed in 2014 and amended in 2018, there are barriers to information access. The setting up of an independent Information Access Commission with 65 government-level departments to assist in the transfer of information from government offices to the media, is potentially a step towards easing access. However, implementation remains a question, given other moves that restrict access, for example the 2020 restrictions authorising only governors to share information with the media, thus creating huge bottlenecks. Moreover, with the imminent withdrawal of the US-NATO troops in the coming year, the barriers to accessing information regarding the opaque agencies of security, justice and peace will undoubtedly impact credible reporting at this crucial juncture.<\/p>\nIn Bhutan<\/strong>, access to information is still wrapped up in red-tape and complicated bureaucratic procedure in a hierarchical set up, necessitating permissions to record videos or take a photo. Besides media persons, researchers and scholars in Bhutan are also coming up against the same obstacles. Free speech and expression as well as pursuit of research are thus impeded by official barriers.<\/p>\nDespite the passage of the Right to Information Act in the Maldives<\/strong> six years ago, a culture of secrecy persists and journalists are hard put to access information from certain state agencies. A survey by the Human Rights Commission of Maldives released in December 2020 showed that a majority of people were dissatisfied with access to official information and only 36 percent found the right to information law to have been helpful.<\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, the repercussions of the 2019 amendments to the once robust Right to Information Act could be seen during the pandemic when access to information was vital \u2013 access to data on funds, vaccine roll out and health infrastructure was repeatedly blocked by official agencies and the Central Information Commission did little to enable the flow of critical information.<\/p>\nLikewise, Sri Lanka<\/strong> too witnessed the dilution of its Right to Information Commission, which could affect its independent functioning.<\/p>\nWelcome pushback<\/h4>\n
\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Despite the relentless battles on several fronts, while struggling to stay afloat, South Asian journalists valiantly put up a resistance to the onslaught on media rights in all countries of the region. Challenges in court, mobilising and collective action despite the restrictions in mobility and the overwhelming public health crisis, were evidence of a spirited defiance.<\/p>\nThe attempt to control the digital space by governments in several countries in the region was met with a heartening push back. In Pakistan,<\/strong> independent online journalism platforms together formed the Digital Media Alliance of Pakistan (DigiMAP<\/a>) to challenge and resist the state\u2019s increasing authoritarianism on national dialogues initiated by grassroots communities. DigiMAP represents the emerging bold new ecosystem of independent media start-ups that have taken it upon themselves to champion the cause of public interest journalism that the legacy media has been forced to surrender before an increasingly hostile state. DigiMAP also put out a strong statement<\/a> against the new digital regulations.<\/p>\nDespite the burgeoning digital media in India<\/strong> and its vital role in promoting independent journalism, there was until now no single body representing the digital news media. Eleven digital media organisations came together in October 2020 to launch the DIGIPUB News India Foundation \u201cto represent, amplify and evolve best practices to build a robust digital news ecology that is truly world-class, independent and upholds the highest standards of journalism,\u201d One of its first actions was to challenge the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 in court, as an infringement of freedom of expression.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9XE9MK-mural-to-spread-awareness-on-Covid-19-in-Mumbai-on-January-29-2022-Punit-PARANJPE-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9AP846-Nepalese-Students-Union-carry-effigy-of-President-Bidhya-Devi-Bhandari-and-PM-Sharma-Oli-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP-e1650512087636.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_220324-Danish-Siddiqui.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_324V7C7-Uttar-Pradesh-state-Yogi-Adityanath-after-Bharatiya-Janata-Partys-BJP-win-in-the-state-assembly-elections-SANJAY-KANOJIA-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_210914-Journalists-participated-a-sit-in-demonstration-to-protest-against-the-PMDA-bill-.-Photo-Credit-RIUJ-e1650512739116.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”554.9px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ min_height=”131px” custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”57px|||||” border_style_all=”none”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” min_height=”65px” border_width_bottom=”5px” border_style_bottom=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Overview<\/strong><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nBearing Witness<\/h3>\n
South Asia witnessed major political and economic upheaval this past year, even as the region was slowly emerging from the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic. While 23 journalists lost their lives and others were subjected to more than 60 attacks by the police, armed militia, vigilante mobs, politicians, local mafia and others, the broader political events continued to impact the security of journalists and their ability to carry out their professional duties.<\/p>\n
From the takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban in August 2021, to the massive democratic protests against the Sri Lankan government in April 2022 that led the country into its worst economic crisis since independence in 1948, the media in South Asia has borne witness to some watershed moments in history, taking severe beatings but also standing strong to speak truth to power.<\/p>\n
Afghanistan endured the grimmest of periods, with the hasty withdrawal of NATO troops in the country after two decades of war, accompanied by the inexorable takeover of the country by the Taliban, province by province, leading up to the eventual capitulation of Kabul on August 15, 2021. While targeted killings of journalists in the country declined, routine harassment, intimidation and even torture of independent media have continued unabated. Unsurprisingly, job losses have been dire. At particular risk are those journalists belonging to minority communities and women, who were swiftly restricted or banned from working. Close to 600 journalists have now reportedly fled the country, hoping to build new lives for themselves and continue to tell the stories of their people.<\/p>\n
In December 2021, Bangladesh\u2019s landmark 50 years of independence marking the day that the country\u2019s people achieved liberation, was over-shadowed by the ongoing climate of fear that continues to aggressively curtail freedom of expression nationally.<\/p>\n
Across South Asia, the stifling of free speech overall and the harsh consequences for those who speak out was an overwhelming reality across the region. With the large youthful populations of India, Pakistan and other countries in the region taking to the digital space, government and corporate control over the sphere has emerged as a critical and serious concern for media sustainability.<\/p>\n
In Nepal, parliamentary and provincial elections scheduled for late 2022 are set to determine the government for the next five years and will also shape the future of the legal and regulatory environment for the media. The current trend of media-related laws constricting free speech in Nepal is leading to an environment of self-censorship and one that is being fiercely challenged by Nepal\u2019s defiant and robust media collective.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
The media in South Asia has borne witness to some watershed moments in history, taking severe beatings but also standing strong to speak truth to power.\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”SRI LANKA-POLITICS-ECONOMY-PROTEST” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
As Sri Lanka grapples with its worst economic crisis in memory, demonstrations in Colombo and across the Island have demanded the government\u2019s resignation. Credit: Ishara S. Kodikara \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nVirtual Control<\/h3>\n
Controlling the online space was a preoccupation of governments across the region.<\/p>\n
Bangladesh saw a stupendous ninefold increase in 2021 over the previous year, in cases filed under its stringent Digital Security Act (DSA) for alleged online criticism of officials, including the prime minister and the country\u2019s founder. In the face of criticism of the DSA and its propensity to criminalise free speech \u2013 an admission made by Bangladesh\u2019s Law Minister himself \u2013 the authorities promised to enact a Data Protection Act. However, the proposed draft contains vague terminology and gives the government arbitrary power to penalise users of the digital space. \u00a0<\/p>\n
Likewise in Sri Lanka, where the parliament in March 2022 passed the Personal Data Protection Bill, concerns have been expressed about the impact of the new law on media reporting and the severe restrictions on the right to information. Critics say the bill could hamper reporting on issues such as corruption, and new provisions on \u2018official secrecy\u2019 could restrict the public\u2019s right to information. The provision empowering the concerned minister to appoint any government institution as the Data Protection Authority (DPA), raises concerns about the autonomy of the institution.<\/p>\n
In Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers were subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, with ill-defined provisions that allow arbitrary penalties to be slapped on those deemed to have crossed the line.<\/p>\n
In Nepal, bills sitting at the federal and provincial levels and awaiting determination do not bode well for press freedom. The Information Technology Bill, the Nepal Media Council Bill, and the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, are all in the pipeline despite concerns raised by stakeholders about the potential of these proposed laws to criminalise journalism itself.<\/p>\n
In early April, in a win for advocates of free speech and in response to a petition filed by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), the Islamabad High Court declared the problematic amendment to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) null and void.<\/p>\n
The collusion between governments and social media conglomerates was exposed in a series of investigative articles by India-based The Reporters Collective<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0Ad Watch,\u00a0<\/em>and published by Al Jazeera\u00a0in March 2022. The investigation found that the Facebook advertisement platform \u201csystematically undercut political competition\u201d in India, giving the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) an \u201cunfair advantage\u201d over other political competitors in the elections. The analysis was based on an examination of 500,000 political advertisements placed on Facebook and Instagram between February 2019 and November 2020 \u2014 during which India\u2019s 2019 General Elections and nine State Assembly elections were held. It also analysed how these unfairly promoted the BJP\u2019s campaigns on the platform.<\/p>\nGovernment propensity to monitor and regulate their citizens was a running theme for the region. India was one of 50 countries where citizens were subjected to surveillance by the spyware Pegasus manufactured by the Israeli group NSO and sold only to governments.<\/p>\n
The data analysed by The Wire<\/em>, part of the international collaboration between French non-profit Forbidden Stories, Amnesty International and 16 media organisations titled \u201cPegasus Project\u201d and released in July 2021, showed that most were targeted between 2018 and 2019, in the run-up to general elections in India. At least 40 Indian journalists are said to be among 300 others targeted, including a Supreme Court judge.<\/p>\nAllegations by the Opposition in Sri Lanka also raised concerns about the use of Pegasus to spy on journalists in the country. Digital security concerns have now become intrinsically part of overall safety and security concerns for journalists in South Asia.<\/p>\n
Misinformation and fake news during the Covid-19 pandemic, which admittedly created public health concerns, was often used as a justification for government control of the media. In Bhutan, the government tightly controlled the media narrative, often in a heavy-handed manner, regulating what and when to report, in the guise of fighting misinformation. On some occasions, the seeming conflict between the right to health and collective rights and press freedom swung in favour of censorship and control.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
In Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers have been subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_324V7C7-Uttar-Pradesh-state-Yogi-Adityanath-after-Bharatiya-Janata-Partys-BJP-win-in-the-state-assembly-elections-SANJAY-KANOJIA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-POLITICS-VOTE” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Supporters of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrate outside the party office in Lucknow on March 10, 2022, on the day of counting of votes for the Uttar Pradesh state assembly elections. Credit: Sanjay Kanojia \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nDealing with hate speech<\/h3>\n
What is clear is that the media in South Asia is going through severe trials and tribulations, battling deep economic crises as well as political polarisation, all of which threaten media freedom and media\u2019s very existence.<\/p>\n
In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that the online spread of hate and misinformation is a profitable business. When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/p>\n
However, in the guise of preventing misinformation, over regulation of content is compromising media freedom. India\u2019s Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, are an example of that overreach. Unfettered powers and misuse by the government were displayed in the blacking out of channels for alleged \u201csecurity\u201d reasons.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Similar overreach is also feared in Pakistan with the introduction in November 2021 of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act, with the purported aim of providing a defence mechanism for journalists. The controversial Section 6 prohibits journalists from \u201cspreading false information\u201d, and producing material that \u201cadvocates hatred\u201d, or constitutes \u201cincitement to discrimination, hostility or violence\u201d. Such vague definitions have the precise potential for the government to excessively regulate online content.<\/p>\n
In the Maldives, new hate speech provisions were added in November 2021 to the penal code to criminalise accusations of apostasy, unless a person explicitly renounces Islam. A section that prohibits \u201ccriticism of Islam in a public medium with the intention of causing disregard\u201d was amended to also criminalise publicly insulting or disparaging the Quran, God or Prophet Mohamed. The new provision adds to the 2008 Maldives constitution that outlaws speech that is “contrary to any tenet of Islam\u201d.<\/p>\n
The country maintains reservations to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights’ Article 18 on freedom of thought, conscience and religion, while the Communications Authority of Maldives regularly blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Compounded with that, the ongoing fear and threat of attacks by vigilante groups is continuing to encourage self-censorship on digital platforms.<\/p>\n
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When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_220324-Danish-Siddiqui.jpg” title_text=”Memorial for Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(0,0,0,0)” min_height=”529px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Candles are placed by colleagues next to a portrait of Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui, who was killed in the crossfire while covering a fierce battle between Afghan security forces and Taliban militants on July 16, 2021. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nStruggle for survival<\/h3>\n
For the media in South Asia, the year was not only one of maintaining high standards of journalistic content, but also one where the sheer struggle to survive was paramount.<\/p>\n
The media in Afghanistan was all but decimated, with more than 300 media outlets shut down, and unable to continue operations due to severe economic unviability and the collapse of much-needed foreign funds after the Taliban claimed control.<\/p>\n
Even in relatively peaceful Bhutan, the media has barely managed to survive. Repeated lockdowns during the pandemic brought to the fore the media\u2019s over reliance on government advertising which continued to decline due to the overall sluggish economy. Austerity measures adopted by most media houses included cutting down on staff and field reporting. They were forced to rely on government hand-outs, a move that directly impacted media freedom. Many senior and trained professionals left the industry and many newsrooms dwindled to just an editor and two or three reporters.<\/p>\n
The lasting effects of the pandemic were seen in the media industry in India where the economic downturn led to loss of advertising revue. Over-dependence on government advertisements was linked to self-censorship and patterning news content to suit the ruling dispensation. The crisis has seen a shift in the revenue models from advertisement-led to paid content, with more and more legacy media instituting paywalls and subscription-driven models.<\/p>\n
The Nepali media too staggered. Under the weight of the economic crisis, journalists\u2019 job security was one of the focus areas of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), which negotiated with media houses, staged protests and used the courts to assert labour rights, with some success.<\/p>\n
Interestingly, the pandemic years saw the growth of niche digital news outlets producing special focus stories and highlighting issues and regions forgotten by the mainstream media. Clearly, the message for media\u2019s sustainability is that readers need to pay for independent news and reportage that accurately reflects ground realities in all their complexity. The newer digital platforms also appear to be building newsrooms that are diverse and inclusive, representing marginalised sections beyond mere tokensim.<\/p>\n
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Pakistani journalists participate in a \u2018sit in\u2019 demonstration from September 12-13, 2021, in protest against the proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) bill, which aimed to establish a sole authority to regulate all film, electronic, print and digital media. Credit: RIUJ<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nAway from home<\/h3>\n
The year 2021 was particularly difficult for journalists in Afghanistan and parts of India such as Jammu and Kashmir. Many reporters were silenced due to pressure from the authorities while to many others were forced to leave their homes and even countries due to security reasons.<\/p>\n
The starkest example was that of Afghan journalists, many who were forced to flee their \u00a0homes and families overnight. The unplanned and sudden exodus saw many journalists living for months in camps in third countries, uncertain about their futures. Some in their new homes, while adjusting to new cultures and languages, are still awaiting work-permits and outlets for their journalistic output. Several Afghan women journalists, who left after being targeted by the Taliban, hope to continue to raise issues for Afghan women.<\/p>\n
The repression in Jammu and Kashmir over the past year led several Kashmiri journalists to leave the state. Intimidation, harassment and implication in fake cases has become almost routine, hampering the media from doing its job. The arrest of some of the more vocal journalists sent a chilling message to the media community, which has a tough choice between self-censorship and jail.<\/p>\n
The political crisis in Myanmar had a spill over effect in neighbouring India, which has long been home to exiled Burmese journalists. In April 2021, three journalists who worked with Mizzima, a multimedia news organisation who had taken refuge in the bordering Indian state of Manipur were in danger of being sent back to Myanmar where they would face a jail term or worse. In a show of solidarity, the All Manipur Working Journalists\u2019 Union (AMWJU) took up advocacy on behalf of the journalists to allow them to remain. An Indian court later granted them sanctuary.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-AFGHANISTAN-CONFLICT-PROTEST” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Afghans residing in India protest the Taliban\u2019s military takeover of Afghanistan outside the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) office in New Delhi on August 23, 2021. Across South Asia, displays of international solidarity marked a collective denigration of Afghanistan\u2019s new regime. Credit: Sajjad HUSSAIN \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nHope from the judiciary<\/h3>\n
With governments in the region trampling upon citizens\u2019 rights, the judiciary in many countries stepped in to uphold constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of speech and expression and freedom of the press.<\/p>\n
In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government. In petitions challenging the government\u2019s illegal surveillance, in the wake of the Pegasus investigation in July 2021, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India, NV Ramana said, \u201callegations are serious if the reports are correct\u2026The truth has to come out\u201d.<\/p>\n
In Pakistan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in a landmark ruling in April 2022, struck down criminal defamation in the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act, a decisive order in favour of press freedom. The IHC by converting letters by the PFUJ regarding illegal terminations, irregular salaries and safety issues into petitions, is another positive move towards journalists\u2019 rights.<\/p>\n
In some cases, lower courts pushing for rule of law also came as a welcome step. A local court directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan to ensure filing of investigation reports in court regarding 1,200 pending inquiries relating to online harassment, identity theft, pornography and other offences registered in Karachi.<\/p>\n
In the Maldives, on January 19, 2022, a criminal court found two men guilty of murdering blogger Yameen Rasheed in 2017 and sentenced them to life imprisonment. The police said that the group of radicalised young men\u00a0believed\u00a0that Yameen deserved to be killed for \u201cinsulting Islam\u201d. Although the trial was bumpy, witnesses were intimidated and the authorities\u2019 professionalism was called into question, that an indictment of the perpetrators was reached is a step forward.<\/p>\n
Likewise, the April 13, 2022, verdict of a Dhaka court sentencing to death four of those accused of murdering eminent secular writer Professor Humayun Azad in 2004 provides a hope that the wheels of justice are turning, albeit very slowly.<\/p>\n
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In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9AP846-Nepalese-Students-Union-carry-effigy-of-President-Bidhya-Devi-Bhandari-and-PM-Sharma-Oli-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP-e1650512087636.jpg” title_text=”NEPAL-POLITICS-PROTEST2″ force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Members of the Nepalese Students Union carry an effigy of President Bidhya Devi Bhandri and Prime Minister Sharma Oli on May 25, 2021, after Nepal’s parliament was dissolved for the second time in just five months. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nUN Special Rapporteurs speak<\/h3>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern. Highlighting the harassment of journalists in Jammu and Kashmir, the UN Special Rapporteur on promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan, and Elina Steinert, the vice-chair of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention in June 3, 2021, urged, \u201call necessary interim measures be taken to halt the alleged violations and prevent their re-occurrence and in the event that the investigations support or suggest the allegations to be correct, to ensure the accountability of any person(s) responsible for the alleged violations,\u201d The report cited examples of\u00a0jailed journalists and the use of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and other counter-terror laws on journalists.<\/p>\n
In March 2022, \u00a0UN human rights experts including from the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances<\/a><\/span>, Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions<\/a><\/span>; Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders<\/a><\/span> and the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression<\/a><\/span> called upon Bangladesh to \u201cimmediately cease reprisals against human rights defenders and relatives of forcibly disappeared persons for their activism and co-operation with international human rights bodies and UN mechanisms.\u201d This statement was issued following the threats and intimidation of civil society and human rights defender after the announcement of sanctions imposed by the United States of America against top Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) officials on December 10, 2021.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/p>\nRight to information<\/h3>\n
Access to information has always been a thorny issue in the region, with most governments refusing to be transparent or accountable. The arrest of Bangladeshi journalist Rozina Islam in April 2021 under the Official Secrets Actis was a stark example of how a journalist seeking to investigate suspected corruption into the country\u2019s health ministry was not only denied access to information but was also penalised for it.<\/p>\n
Even in the Maldives, where its Right to Information Act ranks 16th out of 128 RTI laws in the world, things are not smooth: the country\u2019s third Information Commissioner took up his post in September 2021, nearly seven months after the former commissioner resigned.<\/span><\/p>\nIn Pakistan, a <\/span>February 2022, amendment to the cybercrimes law, PECA also threatened the right to information. But a progressive ruling by the Islamabad High Court declared the entire ordinance unconstitutional, thus protecting the Right to Information guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9XE9MK-mural-to-spread-awareness-on-Covid-19-in-Mumbai-on-January-29-2022-Punit-PARANJPE-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-HEALTH-VIRUS” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
India\u2019s intense struggle with Covid-19 is evident as pedestrians pass a mural depicting Mexican painter Frida Kahlo wearing a facemask in Mumbai on January 29, 2022. Credit: Punit Paranjpe \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nGender inequity<\/h3>\n
The sharp decline in gender equity was nowhere starker than in Afghanistan, where women journalists were denied their right to work and be active in the public sphere. The forced retreat has undone two decades of work in enhancing gender equity in the Afghan media.<\/p>\n
The November 2021 regulation issued by the Taliban government with 11 \u2018rules\u2019, urging the media to refrain from broadcasting TV programs and dramas which featured women meant that women have almost disappeared from public view, except in roles and attire approved by the Taliban. Women journalists, like all professional Afghan women, were prohibited from driving alone, their mobility tied to the presence of a male family member.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile outspoken women journalists in Pakistan faced intense online harassment, including being trolled by even senior government officials who joined the online intimidation and bullying.<\/p>\n
In India, the battle to push women out of the online space was unrelenting. Vicious online abuse, trolling, death and rape threats were particularly severe for Dalit and Muslim women who were regularly silenced and abused. In July 2021, an online \u2018auction\u2019 of prominent Muslim women, including journalists called \u2018Sulli deals\u2019 and once more in early 2022 called \u2018Bulli Bai\u2019 (\u2018Sulli\u2019 and \u2018Bulli\u2019 are derogatory slang for Muslim women) was launched. The Internet Freedom Foundation called the fake online auction of almost 100 Muslim women a \u201cblatant violation of their data security and privacy rights.\u201d These online apps on the GitHub platform, profiling Muslim women activists, journalists, analysts, artists and researchers were taken down after vigorous protests.<\/p>\n
The good news is that for every violation of women journalists\u2019 rights, there has been an equally strong resistance.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9PW2H6-Bangladeshi-Hindus-stage-a-demonstration-in-Dhaka-in-October-2021-Munir-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg” title_text=”BANGLADESH-RELIGION-HINDUISM-PROTEST” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Bangladeshi Hindus stage a demonstration in Dhaka on October 18, 2021 to protest against the fresh religious violence against Hindus in the country. Credit: Munir Uz Zaman \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”4px||9px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” custom_margin=”1px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\n<\/h3>\nWay forward<\/h3>\n
The bleak post-pandemic year has held many lessons for the media in the region. The first is that of sustainability and survival, and the need to diversify and remain relevant. Simultaneously it is also about lobbying for journalists\u2019 rights \u2013 on the streets, in boardrooms and in courts.<\/p>\n
The other is the importance of solidarity and leveraging networks to support media colleagues both within and across borders. The need to speak out and act has never been as important at a time when hyper nationalism is making states fold in unto themselves. In the case of Afghan journalists, for example, there is a need for intervention on several fronts \u2013 from financial assistance to capacity building and supporting those in exile. The international media community must continue to train the spotlight on the crisis of the media in Afghanistan and extend long term support and solidarity.<\/p>\n
The focus must also remain on Sri Lanka, where the economic crisis is likely to be long drawn out, and media freedoms likely to be compromised as the state attempts to repair the damage. International solidarity at such a time is crucial.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]<\/p>\n
Click here to download pdf of Overview and Special Reports<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Feature Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#e5e5e5″ module_alignment=”center” min_height=”238px” height=”331px” max_height=”486px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|-3px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” top_divider_style=”arrow2″ top_divider_color=”#FFFFFF”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ admin_label=”Stats” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ width=”77.3%” custom_padding=”115px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Media Rights Violations” number=”210″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#999999″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Jailed or Detained” number=”60″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#E09900″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Killings” number=”23″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#FF0000″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=”Fullwidth Slider” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”50px” header_letter_spacing=”0px” background_image=”http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg” background_position=”center” module_alignment=”center” min_height=”427px” custom_padding=”357px||395px|||” animation_style=”fade” auto=”on”][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”] THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.48)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"\n
[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=\"Fullwidth Slider\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"50px\" header_letter_spacing=\"7px\" background_image=\"http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg\" background_position=\"center\" module_alignment=\"center\" min_height=\"590px\" animation_style=\"fade\" auto=\"on\"][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_93J7LL-Dissolution-of-parliament-Nepal-protest-Prakash-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_92U7LM-Mock-funeral-for-sexual-assaults-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_94J2MF-Tashnuva-Anan-Shishir-Bangladesh-transgender-news-host-Munir-Uz-zaman-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/BANG_000_93Z8WT-Bangladesh-protest-Mushtaq-Ahmed-Munir-death-in-custody-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Maldives\/A-Covid-19-press-briefing-by-President-Solih-on-June-23-Credit-President_s-Office-2-scaled.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/AFG000_94J2MK-International-womens-day-Afghanistan-WAKIL-KOHSAR-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/LAW_000_8Z94D9-Afghan-President-Ashraf-Ghani-arrives-in-Herat-January-2021-HOSHANG-HASHIMI-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" min_height=\"1286.7px\" custom_margin=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" min_height=\"131px\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"57px|||||\" border_style_all=\"none\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" min_height=\"65px\" border_width_bottom=\"5px\" border_style_bottom=\"solid\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]Overview<\/strong><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_4\" admin_label=\"quote\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" animation_style=\"fade\"][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"3px|||||\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" width=\"97.3%\" min_height=\"1217px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<\/h1>\nPandemic, the Press and the New Digital Order<\/h3>\n
As the second wave of the Covid pandemic surged across South Asia in early 2021, journalists found themselves in the thick of the storm, without a safety net and scant institutional support. Battling not only the deadly virus, they mounted stiff resistance to states trying to control the narrative and plaster over the horrific reality. Journalists breaking stories of rising deaths, collapsing health systems and unpreparedness and mismanagement at the highest levels of government were silenced, hounded, arrested and penalised.<\/p>\n
Even as journalists also mourned the loss of their colleagues and family members, they continued to work in the most challenging circumstances to publicise the truth. They reported from the frontlines without adequate protective equipment, exposing themselves to infection to tell stories of the suffering in hospitals, in graveyards and crematoria. Many fell ill, many others continue to suffer from the long-term impacts of the Covid syndrome. Hundreds of others succumbed, unsung heroic storytellers of the apocalypse that engulfed them.<\/p>\n
To many others continued to tell one of the biggest stories of our times, while also enduring salary cuts and delays in wage payments, denial of protective personal equipment, medical insurance or reimbursement of massive medical bills to treat Covid contracted in the line of duty. Huge numbers of media workers were also rendered jobless or forced to resign in the wake of economic impacts of Covid-19. reeling under arrests and cases of sedition and terror, unrelenting trolling and abuse online, they wrote on. Some wrote on, even without a job or payment.<\/p>\n
Charges of \u201canti-national\u201d, \u201cagainst national security\u201d were widely used to curb dissent through archaic laws of sedition and colonial era laws of epidemic control. With courts admitting petitions challenging the constitutionality of some of these laws, there is reason to hope for change.<\/p>\n
The raging pandemic, accompanying lockdowns and economic crises were only piled on to existing barriers that the region\u2019s journalists already faced. Physical attacks and intimidation, lack of access to information, control and censorship; sharpened ethnic and religious cleavages; legal repercussions for their stories and an overall precarity of the media. Impunity for crimes against journalists continued, despite small gains. Yet, journalists bore witness and told the stories that needed to be told, with professional integrity, compassion and deep humanity.<\/p>\n
Regional trends<\/h3>\nTightening regulation and digital controls<\/h4>\n
Controlling the flow of information seemed to be an overriding preoccupation of governments across the region. From reigning in the burgeoning independent digital media and clamping down on critical voices on social media, governments and social media platforms fell short of upholding freedom of expression at a critical juncture.<\/p>\n
At a time when the free flow of information was literally a matter of life and death, governments intolerant of critical questions, tended to use the pandemic as a pretext to curb information, and any opinion that was deemed \u201canti-government\u201d. Social media presented a particular anxiety for governments trying to curb dissent, and unfortunately, social media giants did not adequately protect citizen\u2019s right to free speech, instead complying with unreasonable takedown notices from governments.<\/p>\n
Pakistan<\/strong> suffered under the harshest clampdown on dissent by any government. Media rights and freedom of expression took a severe beating, with the government seemingly leaping at the opportunity to deprive the media of both freedom and funds, driving an already beleaguered media industry into deeper crisis.\u00a0 The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) which criminalises free speech and gives overarching powers to law enforcement authorities, was overused in Pakistan to clamp down on free speech. The media, political opponents, activists and members of the public found the boundaries of free speech indiscriminately scrunched in violation of constitutional guarantees.<\/p>\nArbitrary blocking of independent websites, internet and communication shutdowns were regularly deployed to censor the media. This inevitably led to the proliferation of misinformation \u2013 which Pakistan could ill-afford in the midst of not only the pandemic, but civil strife and political upheaval.\u00a0 Cutting off connectivity in politically sensitive areas in an attempt to censor news had other adverse effects during the lockdown, mainly on health and education.<\/p>\n
In Bangladesh<\/strong>, it took the tragic custodial death in February 2021, of writer Mushtaq Ahmed incarcerated for ten months and repeatedly denied bail, to once more shine the spotlight on the draconian Digital Security Act (DSA) which has been widely used against journalists, bloggers and citizens to penalise free speech and critical opinion. The lone Cyber Crimes Tribunal, reeling under a staggering pending case load can barely manage due process in hearing cases, leave aside render justice.<\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, besides the time-honoured tactic of internet shutdowns to cut communications, the newly promulgated Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 gave the government the power to censor, order takedowns and block content without any recourse to appeal. Independent digital platforms termed the rules not just unconstitutional, but a blow to democracy itself, and have challenged this attempt at over-regulation in the highest court in the country. In addition to its attempt to control independent digital media, fast emerging as major players in the media landscape, the Indian government came down strongly on social media expression deemed to be critical of the government\u2019s handling of the pandemic. In the same vein, the new media Policy in Jammu and Kashmir (downgraded from state to centrally administered union territory in April 2019), issued in June 2020, was immediately viewed with disquiet by journalists, given that it empowers government officers to take action on \u201cfake news\u201d or \u201canti-national content\u201d.<\/p>\nAllegations of misinformation and rumour mongering were thrown at journalists and even citizens exposing the horrific ground reality of acute shortage of medical supplies, oxygen, overflowing hospitals and crematoria. Significantly, while content critical of the government was taken down, virulent hate speech against minorities and misogynist speech online thrived in India. Social media platforms Twitter and Facebook too succumbed to takedown requests by the government, failing to stand up for free speech.<\/p>\n
Across the region, governments displayed a remarkable disrespect towards the media, and took steps to increase regulation. In Nepal<\/strong>, the government moved ahead with tougher bills and regulations such as the Media Council Bill, the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, the Information Technology Bill, and the Special Service Bill \u2013 all of which have clauses that could undermine press freedom. The clampdown on social media has been proposed on pretexts of the \u201ccountry\u2019s sovereignty, security, unity or harmony\u201d. The Media Council Bill could erode the autonomy of the media, with government-appointed regulators, a provision that has been vehemently opposed by media rights organisations.<\/p>\nThe international norm of self-regulation by media was also violated in Sri Lanka<\/strong>, where in January 2021, the Cabinet of Ministers proposed to amend the Press Council Law to include electronic and new media and approved a proposal to \u2018structurally reform and reorganise\u2019 the Press Council to cover electronic and new media. The move was criticised by the Professional Web Journalists' Association which argued that the electronic and new media should be not controlled, but self-regulated with a stringent code of ethics developed by the media community itself.<\/p>\nLivelihood in peril<\/h4>\n
The pandemic year was also witness to dramatic loss of jobs in the media, across the region. Over 8,000 of Pakistan\u2019s<\/strong> estimated 20,000 journalists <\/span>lost their jobs in 2020<\/a> alone, and rural and district staff were more likely to be retrenched.<\/span><\/p>\nJournalists, mainly through the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), remained up in arms for most of the year and in early 2021 launched an \u201cenough is enough\u201d campaign across the country to protest job losses, pay cuts, censorship and rising intimidation. The media industry found new external supporters, including the legal community and civil society in institutional and organised partnerships with PFUJ to jointly resist the rising attacks on media freedoms, journalists\u2019 rights and public interest journalism in Pakistan.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, which saw a series of retrenchments from March 2020 onwards, there are no clear numbers of the job losses or salary cuts. <\/span>Estimates<\/a> put the figures in the thousands. Besides layoffs, salary cuts and delays in payments, media houses also threatened to sack staff if they wanted to work from home. The obstinacy of many managements led to staff in some media houses getting infected with the coronavirus en masse. Journalists from the regional press were harder hit, with fewer paying options than their English media counterparts. <\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) took up more than 500 complaints relating to job loss and non-payment of salary in Nepal<\/strong>. A survey conducted by the <\/span>FNJ in September 2020, revealed the desperate state of Nepal\u2019s journalists: the earning of 40 percent of journalists was affected by the pandemic and the nationwide lockdowns and women journalists were more severely impacted. Several media houses in Kathmandu suspended publications, cut down broadcast hours and decreased the size of the newspapers. The revenue of 75 percent of the once vibrant radio sector decreased due to the pandemic.<\/p>\nThe story was no different in Bangladesh<\/strong> where an estimated 1,250 journalists lost their jobs and several thousand faced salary cuts or irregular payments. While media owners blamed the pandemic for the drop in revenue and resultant salary cuts, trade unionists say that irregular payments were a norm of a section of media houses which then grasped at the pandemic as a justification to deny journalists their rights.<\/p>\nThe pandemic crisis however, only added to existing pressures that journalists across the region face. A major threat being the increasing polarisation on communal lines.<\/span><\/p>\nRising Extremism<\/h4>\n
South Asia has ravaged by religious, ethnic and caste divides for decades, but the growing cleavages of the last few years have been unprecedented. With hyper-nationalist parties in power in many countries in the region drawing votes and support from religiously aligned groups, the polity too has been sharply divided. Minorities in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have been particularly vulnerable, in this context of majoritarian politics. These divisions have inevitably affected the media. While some sections have added to the problem by exacerbating divisions and amplifying hate, others have had to struggle to remain independent.<\/p>\n
Existing fault lines were exacerbated by external situations that are likely to impact the whole region. The proposed withdrawal of US-NATO troops from Afghanistan by the coming September is feared to increase the Taliban's influence in Afghanistan<\/strong>, a development that could have a ripple effect in the region in terms of encouraging radicalism. Hard worn democratic and secular gains could be pushed back, with a direct impact on the media and individual journalists. Likewise, growing communalism in India<\/strong>, encouraged by the government in power, has a dangerous spill over effect in the neighbourhood, contributing to more polarisation and the strengthening of extremist groups. The media cannot be immune from attack, even as it attempts to uphold constitutional values, and the rights of women, minorities and the marginalised.<\/p>\nReligion in the Maldives<\/strong> is a no-go topic in public discourse, and the fear of being labelled anti-Islam contributes to the journalists practicing self-censorship of forgoing bylines while reporting on extremism in the country. As part of official control, the Communications Authority of Maldives blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Though social media use is growing, intimidation and deaths threats pose the greatest challenge for free expression online. The yet unsolved murders of journalist Ahmed Rilwan and blogger Yameen Rashid known for their vocal criticism of religious fundamentalism are grim reminders of the risks of speaking out for religious freedom or minority rights. In its World Report 2021, Human Rights Watch accused the government of failing to confront the influence of hard-line Islamist groups. \u201cOnline intimidation of human rights groups continued to have a chilling effect on civil society in 2020,\u201d and reiterated calls to tackle hate speech and violence online.<\/p>\nThe state response to tackling religious extremism however, often has serious implications for freedom of expression and civil rights. In Sri<\/strong> Lanka<\/strong>, the Prevention of Terrorism (De-radicalisation from Holding Violent Extremist Religious Ideology) Regulations were issued in march 2021, expanding on the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). Powers given to authorities to detain and \u2018rehabilitate\u2019 anyone who \u2018by words either spoken or intended to be read or by signs or by visible representations\u2019 causes the commission of violence or \u2018religious, racial or communal disharmony or feelings of ill will or hostility between different communities or racial or religious groups\u2019 is prone to misuse, fear activists. The spate of arrests in cases of hate speech, mostly of Tamil and Muslim minorities further reinforces this apprehension of selective use of power by law enforcement agencies.<\/p>\nWomen journalists in the firing line<\/h4>\n
The rampant vitriol and violence online were particularly targeted at women journalists in the region. Pakistani<\/strong> women journalists had a rough year, facing unrelenting abuse by organised troll armies, many backed by members of the ruling party, prompting them to release a petition taking the government to account. Similar was the case across the border in India<\/strong>, where online abuse took a heavy toll in an already stressful year of the pandemic. Sexist abuse, misogyny and spillover of online to offline stalking and violence became the price that women journalists paid for speaking out.<\/span><\/p>\nThe marginalised existence of women journalists in South Asia\u2019s media community is itself one of the factors contributing to precarity. A report released in early 2020 by the South Asia Women\u2019s Network, showed that women accounted for only 29 per cent of staff in Maldives<\/strong> media organisations. Only five per cent leadership roles were occupied by women. Paradoxically, the enrolment of women in journalism courses in the Maldives was higher than men at 3:1. This data begs the question: where do these professional women vanish? The answer probably lies in another finding of the study: women face immense discrimination, harassment and bullying at the workplace.<\/p>\nNepali<\/strong> women journalists too faced character assassination, body shaming, speculation about sexual links with prominent men, with women journalists from marginalised communities such as Madhesi and Dalit are more intensive attack. Women journalists fought back, and refused to be silenced, speedily blocking abusers, reporting them and also using aliases to move forward and express themselves online.<\/p>\nPatchy access to information<\/h4>\n
Almost all countries in South Asia sought to tighten controls over access to information, denying journalists a basic tool for accurate reporting. In Afghanistan<\/strong>, despite an Access to Information Law passed in 2014 and amended in 2018, there are barriers to information access. The setting up of an independent Information Access Commission with 65 government-level departments to assist in the transfer of information from government offices to the media, is potentially a step towards easing access. However, implementation remains a question, given other moves that restrict access, for example the 2020 restrictions authorising only governors to share information with the media, thus creating huge bottlenecks. Moreover, with the imminent withdrawal of the US-NATO troops in the coming year, the barriers to accessing information regarding the opaque agencies of security, justice and peace will undoubtedly impact credible reporting at this crucial juncture.<\/p>\nIn Bhutan<\/strong>, access to information is still wrapped up in red-tape and complicated bureaucratic procedure in a hierarchical set up, necessitating permissions to record videos or take a photo. Besides media persons, researchers and scholars in Bhutan are also coming up against the same obstacles. Free speech and expression as well as pursuit of research are thus impeded by official barriers.<\/p>\nDespite the passage of the Right to Information Act in the Maldives<\/strong> six years ago, a culture of secrecy persists and journalists are hard put to access information from certain state agencies. A survey by the Human Rights Commission of Maldives released in December 2020 showed that a majority of people were dissatisfied with access to official information and only 36 percent found the right to information law to have been helpful.<\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, the repercussions of the 2019 amendments to the once robust Right to Information Act could be seen during the pandemic when access to information was vital \u2013 access to data on funds, vaccine roll out and health infrastructure was repeatedly blocked by official agencies and the Central Information Commission did little to enable the flow of critical information.<\/p>\nLikewise, Sri Lanka<\/strong> too witnessed the dilution of its Right to Information Commission, which could affect its independent functioning.<\/p>\nWelcome pushback<\/h4>\n
\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Despite the relentless battles on several fronts, while struggling to stay afloat, South Asian journalists valiantly put up a resistance to the onslaught on media rights in all countries of the region. Challenges in court, mobilising and collective action despite the restrictions in mobility and the overwhelming public health crisis, were evidence of a spirited defiance.<\/p>\nThe attempt to control the digital space by governments in several countries in the region was met with a heartening push back. In Pakistan,<\/strong> independent online journalism platforms together formed the Digital Media Alliance of Pakistan (DigiMAP<\/a>) to challenge and resist the state\u2019s increasing authoritarianism on national dialogues initiated by grassroots communities. DigiMAP represents the emerging bold new ecosystem of independent media start-ups that have taken it upon themselves to champion the cause of public interest journalism that the legacy media has been forced to surrender before an increasingly hostile state. DigiMAP also put out a strong statement<\/a> against the new digital regulations.<\/p>\nDespite the burgeoning digital media in India<\/strong> and its vital role in promoting independent journalism, there was until now no single body representing the digital news media. Eleven digital media organisations came together in October 2020 to launch the DIGIPUB News India Foundation \u201cto represent, amplify and evolve best practices to build a robust digital news ecology that is truly world-class, independent and upholds the highest standards of journalism,\u201d One of its first actions was to challenge the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 in court, as an infringement of freedom of expression.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_220324-Danish-Siddiqui.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_324V7C7-Uttar-Pradesh-state-Yogi-Adityanath-after-Bharatiya-Janata-Partys-BJP-win-in-the-state-assembly-elections-SANJAY-KANOJIA-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_210914-Journalists-participated-a-sit-in-demonstration-to-protest-against-the-PMDA-bill-.-Photo-Credit-RIUJ-e1650512739116.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”]<\/p>\n
THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”554.9px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ min_height=”131px” custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”57px|||||” border_style_all=”none”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” min_height=”65px” border_width_bottom=”5px” border_style_bottom=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Overview<\/strong><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nBearing Witness<\/h3>\n
South Asia witnessed major political and economic upheaval this past year, even as the region was slowly emerging from the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic. While 23 journalists lost their lives and others were subjected to more than 60 attacks by the police, armed militia, vigilante mobs, politicians, local mafia and others, the broader political events continued to impact the security of journalists and their ability to carry out their professional duties.<\/p>\n
From the takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban in August 2021, to the massive democratic protests against the Sri Lankan government in April 2022 that led the country into its worst economic crisis since independence in 1948, the media in South Asia has borne witness to some watershed moments in history, taking severe beatings but also standing strong to speak truth to power.<\/p>\n
Afghanistan endured the grimmest of periods, with the hasty withdrawal of NATO troops in the country after two decades of war, accompanied by the inexorable takeover of the country by the Taliban, province by province, leading up to the eventual capitulation of Kabul on August 15, 2021. While targeted killings of journalists in the country declined, routine harassment, intimidation and even torture of independent media have continued unabated. Unsurprisingly, job losses have been dire. At particular risk are those journalists belonging to minority communities and women, who were swiftly restricted or banned from working. Close to 600 journalists have now reportedly fled the country, hoping to build new lives for themselves and continue to tell the stories of their people.<\/p>\n
In December 2021, Bangladesh\u2019s landmark 50 years of independence marking the day that the country\u2019s people achieved liberation, was over-shadowed by the ongoing climate of fear that continues to aggressively curtail freedom of expression nationally.<\/p>\n
Across South Asia, the stifling of free speech overall and the harsh consequences for those who speak out was an overwhelming reality across the region. With the large youthful populations of India, Pakistan and other countries in the region taking to the digital space, government and corporate control over the sphere has emerged as a critical and serious concern for media sustainability.<\/p>\n
In Nepal, parliamentary and provincial elections scheduled for late 2022 are set to determine the government for the next five years and will also shape the future of the legal and regulatory environment for the media. The current trend of media-related laws constricting free speech in Nepal is leading to an environment of self-censorship and one that is being fiercely challenged by Nepal\u2019s defiant and robust media collective.<\/p>\n
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The media in South Asia has borne witness to some watershed moments in history, taking severe beatings but also standing strong to speak truth to power.\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”SRI LANKA-POLITICS-ECONOMY-PROTEST” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
As Sri Lanka grapples with its worst economic crisis in memory, demonstrations in Colombo and across the Island have demanded the government\u2019s resignation. Credit: Ishara S. Kodikara \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nVirtual Control<\/h3>\n
Controlling the online space was a preoccupation of governments across the region.<\/p>\n
Bangladesh saw a stupendous ninefold increase in 2021 over the previous year, in cases filed under its stringent Digital Security Act (DSA) for alleged online criticism of officials, including the prime minister and the country\u2019s founder. In the face of criticism of the DSA and its propensity to criminalise free speech \u2013 an admission made by Bangladesh\u2019s Law Minister himself \u2013 the authorities promised to enact a Data Protection Act. However, the proposed draft contains vague terminology and gives the government arbitrary power to penalise users of the digital space. \u00a0<\/p>\n
Likewise in Sri Lanka, where the parliament in March 2022 passed the Personal Data Protection Bill, concerns have been expressed about the impact of the new law on media reporting and the severe restrictions on the right to information. Critics say the bill could hamper reporting on issues such as corruption, and new provisions on \u2018official secrecy\u2019 could restrict the public\u2019s right to information. The provision empowering the concerned minister to appoint any government institution as the Data Protection Authority (DPA), raises concerns about the autonomy of the institution.<\/p>\n
In Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers were subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, with ill-defined provisions that allow arbitrary penalties to be slapped on those deemed to have crossed the line.<\/p>\n
In Nepal, bills sitting at the federal and provincial levels and awaiting determination do not bode well for press freedom. The Information Technology Bill, the Nepal Media Council Bill, and the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, are all in the pipeline despite concerns raised by stakeholders about the potential of these proposed laws to criminalise journalism itself.<\/p>\n
In early April, in a win for advocates of free speech and in response to a petition filed by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), the Islamabad High Court declared the problematic amendment to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) null and void.<\/p>\n
The collusion between governments and social media conglomerates was exposed in a series of investigative articles by India-based The Reporters Collective<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0Ad Watch,\u00a0<\/em>and published by Al Jazeera\u00a0in March 2022. The investigation found that the Facebook advertisement platform \u201csystematically undercut political competition\u201d in India, giving the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) an \u201cunfair advantage\u201d over other political competitors in the elections. The analysis was based on an examination of 500,000 political advertisements placed on Facebook and Instagram between February 2019 and November 2020 \u2014 during which India\u2019s 2019 General Elections and nine State Assembly elections were held. It also analysed how these unfairly promoted the BJP\u2019s campaigns on the platform.<\/p>\nGovernment propensity to monitor and regulate their citizens was a running theme for the region. India was one of 50 countries where citizens were subjected to surveillance by the spyware Pegasus manufactured by the Israeli group NSO and sold only to governments.<\/p>\n
The data analysed by The Wire<\/em>, part of the international collaboration between French non-profit Forbidden Stories, Amnesty International and 16 media organisations titled \u201cPegasus Project\u201d and released in July 2021, showed that most were targeted between 2018 and 2019, in the run-up to general elections in India. At least 40 Indian journalists are said to be among 300 others targeted, including a Supreme Court judge.<\/p>\nAllegations by the Opposition in Sri Lanka also raised concerns about the use of Pegasus to spy on journalists in the country. Digital security concerns have now become intrinsically part of overall safety and security concerns for journalists in South Asia.<\/p>\n
Misinformation and fake news during the Covid-19 pandemic, which admittedly created public health concerns, was often used as a justification for government control of the media. In Bhutan, the government tightly controlled the media narrative, often in a heavy-handed manner, regulating what and when to report, in the guise of fighting misinformation. On some occasions, the seeming conflict between the right to health and collective rights and press freedom swung in favour of censorship and control.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
In Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers have been subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_324V7C7-Uttar-Pradesh-state-Yogi-Adityanath-after-Bharatiya-Janata-Partys-BJP-win-in-the-state-assembly-elections-SANJAY-KANOJIA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-POLITICS-VOTE” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Supporters of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrate outside the party office in Lucknow on March 10, 2022, on the day of counting of votes for the Uttar Pradesh state assembly elections. Credit: Sanjay Kanojia \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nDealing with hate speech<\/h3>\n
What is clear is that the media in South Asia is going through severe trials and tribulations, battling deep economic crises as well as political polarisation, all of which threaten media freedom and media\u2019s very existence.<\/p>\n
In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that the online spread of hate and misinformation is a profitable business. When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/p>\n
However, in the guise of preventing misinformation, over regulation of content is compromising media freedom. India\u2019s Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, are an example of that overreach. Unfettered powers and misuse by the government were displayed in the blacking out of channels for alleged \u201csecurity\u201d reasons.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Similar overreach is also feared in Pakistan with the introduction in November 2021 of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act, with the purported aim of providing a defence mechanism for journalists. The controversial Section 6 prohibits journalists from \u201cspreading false information\u201d, and producing material that \u201cadvocates hatred\u201d, or constitutes \u201cincitement to discrimination, hostility or violence\u201d. Such vague definitions have the precise potential for the government to excessively regulate online content.<\/p>\n
In the Maldives, new hate speech provisions were added in November 2021 to the penal code to criminalise accusations of apostasy, unless a person explicitly renounces Islam. A section that prohibits \u201ccriticism of Islam in a public medium with the intention of causing disregard\u201d was amended to also criminalise publicly insulting or disparaging the Quran, God or Prophet Mohamed. The new provision adds to the 2008 Maldives constitution that outlaws speech that is “contrary to any tenet of Islam\u201d.<\/p>\n
The country maintains reservations to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights’ Article 18 on freedom of thought, conscience and religion, while the Communications Authority of Maldives regularly blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Compounded with that, the ongoing fear and threat of attacks by vigilante groups is continuing to encourage self-censorship on digital platforms.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_220324-Danish-Siddiqui.jpg” title_text=”Memorial for Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(0,0,0,0)” min_height=”529px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Candles are placed by colleagues next to a portrait of Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui, who was killed in the crossfire while covering a fierce battle between Afghan security forces and Taliban militants on July 16, 2021. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nStruggle for survival<\/h3>\n
For the media in South Asia, the year was not only one of maintaining high standards of journalistic content, but also one where the sheer struggle to survive was paramount.<\/p>\n
The media in Afghanistan was all but decimated, with more than 300 media outlets shut down, and unable to continue operations due to severe economic unviability and the collapse of much-needed foreign funds after the Taliban claimed control.<\/p>\n
Even in relatively peaceful Bhutan, the media has barely managed to survive. Repeated lockdowns during the pandemic brought to the fore the media\u2019s over reliance on government advertising which continued to decline due to the overall sluggish economy. Austerity measures adopted by most media houses included cutting down on staff and field reporting. They were forced to rely on government hand-outs, a move that directly impacted media freedom. Many senior and trained professionals left the industry and many newsrooms dwindled to just an editor and two or three reporters.<\/p>\n
The lasting effects of the pandemic were seen in the media industry in India where the economic downturn led to loss of advertising revue. Over-dependence on government advertisements was linked to self-censorship and patterning news content to suit the ruling dispensation. The crisis has seen a shift in the revenue models from advertisement-led to paid content, with more and more legacy media instituting paywalls and subscription-driven models.<\/p>\n
The Nepali media too staggered. Under the weight of the economic crisis, journalists\u2019 job security was one of the focus areas of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), which negotiated with media houses, staged protests and used the courts to assert labour rights, with some success.<\/p>\n
Interestingly, the pandemic years saw the growth of niche digital news outlets producing special focus stories and highlighting issues and regions forgotten by the mainstream media. Clearly, the message for media\u2019s sustainability is that readers need to pay for independent news and reportage that accurately reflects ground realities in all their complexity. The newer digital platforms also appear to be building newsrooms that are diverse and inclusive, representing marginalised sections beyond mere tokensim.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_210914-Journalists-participated-a-sit-in-demonstration-to-protest-against-the-PMDA-bill-.-Photo-Credit-RIUJ-e1650512739116.jpg” title_text=”OVER_210914 Journalists participated a ‘sit in’ demonstration to protest against the PMDA bill . Photo Credit RIUJ” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Pakistani journalists participate in a \u2018sit in\u2019 demonstration from September 12-13, 2021, in protest against the proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) bill, which aimed to establish a sole authority to regulate all film, electronic, print and digital media. Credit: RIUJ<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nAway from home<\/h3>\n
The year 2021 was particularly difficult for journalists in Afghanistan and parts of India such as Jammu and Kashmir. Many reporters were silenced due to pressure from the authorities while to many others were forced to leave their homes and even countries due to security reasons.<\/p>\n
The starkest example was that of Afghan journalists, many who were forced to flee their \u00a0homes and families overnight. The unplanned and sudden exodus saw many journalists living for months in camps in third countries, uncertain about their futures. Some in their new homes, while adjusting to new cultures and languages, are still awaiting work-permits and outlets for their journalistic output. Several Afghan women journalists, who left after being targeted by the Taliban, hope to continue to raise issues for Afghan women.<\/p>\n
The repression in Jammu and Kashmir over the past year led several Kashmiri journalists to leave the state. Intimidation, harassment and implication in fake cases has become almost routine, hampering the media from doing its job. The arrest of some of the more vocal journalists sent a chilling message to the media community, which has a tough choice between self-censorship and jail.<\/p>\n
The political crisis in Myanmar had a spill over effect in neighbouring India, which has long been home to exiled Burmese journalists. In April 2021, three journalists who worked with Mizzima, a multimedia news organisation who had taken refuge in the bordering Indian state of Manipur were in danger of being sent back to Myanmar where they would face a jail term or worse. In a show of solidarity, the All Manipur Working Journalists\u2019 Union (AMWJU) took up advocacy on behalf of the journalists to allow them to remain. An Indian court later granted them sanctuary.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-AFGHANISTAN-CONFLICT-PROTEST” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Afghans residing in India protest the Taliban\u2019s military takeover of Afghanistan outside the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) office in New Delhi on August 23, 2021. Across South Asia, displays of international solidarity marked a collective denigration of Afghanistan\u2019s new regime. Credit: Sajjad HUSSAIN \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nHope from the judiciary<\/h3>\n
With governments in the region trampling upon citizens\u2019 rights, the judiciary in many countries stepped in to uphold constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of speech and expression and freedom of the press.<\/p>\n
In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government. In petitions challenging the government\u2019s illegal surveillance, in the wake of the Pegasus investigation in July 2021, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India, NV Ramana said, \u201callegations are serious if the reports are correct\u2026The truth has to come out\u201d.<\/p>\n
In Pakistan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in a landmark ruling in April 2022, struck down criminal defamation in the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act, a decisive order in favour of press freedom. The IHC by converting letters by the PFUJ regarding illegal terminations, irregular salaries and safety issues into petitions, is another positive move towards journalists\u2019 rights.<\/p>\n
In some cases, lower courts pushing for rule of law also came as a welcome step. A local court directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan to ensure filing of investigation reports in court regarding 1,200 pending inquiries relating to online harassment, identity theft, pornography and other offences registered in Karachi.<\/p>\n
In the Maldives, on January 19, 2022, a criminal court found two men guilty of murdering blogger Yameen Rasheed in 2017 and sentenced them to life imprisonment. The police said that the group of radicalised young men\u00a0believed\u00a0that Yameen deserved to be killed for \u201cinsulting Islam\u201d. Although the trial was bumpy, witnesses were intimidated and the authorities\u2019 professionalism was called into question, that an indictment of the perpetrators was reached is a step forward.<\/p>\n
Likewise, the April 13, 2022, verdict of a Dhaka court sentencing to death four of those accused of murdering eminent secular writer Professor Humayun Azad in 2004 provides a hope that the wheels of justice are turning, albeit very slowly.<\/p>\n
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In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9AP846-Nepalese-Students-Union-carry-effigy-of-President-Bidhya-Devi-Bhandari-and-PM-Sharma-Oli-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP-e1650512087636.jpg” title_text=”NEPAL-POLITICS-PROTEST2″ force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Members of the Nepalese Students Union carry an effigy of President Bidhya Devi Bhandri and Prime Minister Sharma Oli on May 25, 2021, after Nepal’s parliament was dissolved for the second time in just five months. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nUN Special Rapporteurs speak<\/h3>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern. Highlighting the harassment of journalists in Jammu and Kashmir, the UN Special Rapporteur on promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan, and Elina Steinert, the vice-chair of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention in June 3, 2021, urged, \u201call necessary interim measures be taken to halt the alleged violations and prevent their re-occurrence and in the event that the investigations support or suggest the allegations to be correct, to ensure the accountability of any person(s) responsible for the alleged violations,\u201d The report cited examples of\u00a0jailed journalists and the use of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and other counter-terror laws on journalists.<\/p>\n
In March 2022, \u00a0UN human rights experts including from the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances<\/a><\/span>, Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions<\/a><\/span>; Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders<\/a><\/span> and the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression<\/a><\/span> called upon Bangladesh to \u201cimmediately cease reprisals against human rights defenders and relatives of forcibly disappeared persons for their activism and co-operation with international human rights bodies and UN mechanisms.\u201d This statement was issued following the threats and intimidation of civil society and human rights defender after the announcement of sanctions imposed by the United States of America against top Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) officials on December 10, 2021.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/p>\nRight to information<\/h3>\n
Access to information has always been a thorny issue in the region, with most governments refusing to be transparent or accountable. The arrest of Bangladeshi journalist Rozina Islam in April 2021 under the Official Secrets Actis was a stark example of how a journalist seeking to investigate suspected corruption into the country\u2019s health ministry was not only denied access to information but was also penalised for it.<\/p>\n
Even in the Maldives, where its Right to Information Act ranks 16th out of 128 RTI laws in the world, things are not smooth: the country\u2019s third Information Commissioner took up his post in September 2021, nearly seven months after the former commissioner resigned.<\/span><\/p>\nIn Pakistan, a <\/span>February 2022, amendment to the cybercrimes law, PECA also threatened the right to information. But a progressive ruling by the Islamabad High Court declared the entire ordinance unconstitutional, thus protecting the Right to Information guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9XE9MK-mural-to-spread-awareness-on-Covid-19-in-Mumbai-on-January-29-2022-Punit-PARANJPE-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-HEALTH-VIRUS” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
India\u2019s intense struggle with Covid-19 is evident as pedestrians pass a mural depicting Mexican painter Frida Kahlo wearing a facemask in Mumbai on January 29, 2022. Credit: Punit Paranjpe \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nGender inequity<\/h3>\n
The sharp decline in gender equity was nowhere starker than in Afghanistan, where women journalists were denied their right to work and be active in the public sphere. The forced retreat has undone two decades of work in enhancing gender equity in the Afghan media.<\/p>\n
The November 2021 regulation issued by the Taliban government with 11 \u2018rules\u2019, urging the media to refrain from broadcasting TV programs and dramas which featured women meant that women have almost disappeared from public view, except in roles and attire approved by the Taliban. Women journalists, like all professional Afghan women, were prohibited from driving alone, their mobility tied to the presence of a male family member.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile outspoken women journalists in Pakistan faced intense online harassment, including being trolled by even senior government officials who joined the online intimidation and bullying.<\/p>\n
In India, the battle to push women out of the online space was unrelenting. Vicious online abuse, trolling, death and rape threats were particularly severe for Dalit and Muslim women who were regularly silenced and abused. In July 2021, an online \u2018auction\u2019 of prominent Muslim women, including journalists called \u2018Sulli deals\u2019 and once more in early 2022 called \u2018Bulli Bai\u2019 (\u2018Sulli\u2019 and \u2018Bulli\u2019 are derogatory slang for Muslim women) was launched. The Internet Freedom Foundation called the fake online auction of almost 100 Muslim women a \u201cblatant violation of their data security and privacy rights.\u201d These online apps on the GitHub platform, profiling Muslim women activists, journalists, analysts, artists and researchers were taken down after vigorous protests.<\/p>\n
The good news is that for every violation of women journalists\u2019 rights, there has been an equally strong resistance.<\/p>\n
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Bangladeshi Hindus stage a demonstration in Dhaka on October 18, 2021 to protest against the fresh religious violence against Hindus in the country. Credit: Munir Uz Zaman \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”4px||9px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” custom_margin=”1px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\n<\/h3>\nWay forward<\/h3>\n
The bleak post-pandemic year has held many lessons for the media in the region. The first is that of sustainability and survival, and the need to diversify and remain relevant. Simultaneously it is also about lobbying for journalists\u2019 rights \u2013 on the streets, in boardrooms and in courts.<\/p>\n
The other is the importance of solidarity and leveraging networks to support media colleagues both within and across borders. The need to speak out and act has never been as important at a time when hyper nationalism is making states fold in unto themselves. In the case of Afghan journalists, for example, there is a need for intervention on several fronts \u2013 from financial assistance to capacity building and supporting those in exile. The international media community must continue to train the spotlight on the crisis of the media in Afghanistan and extend long term support and solidarity.<\/p>\n
The focus must also remain on Sri Lanka, where the economic crisis is likely to be long drawn out, and media freedoms likely to be compromised as the state attempts to repair the damage. International solidarity at such a time is crucial.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]<\/p>\n
Click here to download pdf of Overview and Special Reports<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Feature Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#e5e5e5″ module_alignment=”center” min_height=”238px” height=”331px” max_height=”486px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|-3px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” top_divider_style=”arrow2″ top_divider_color=”#FFFFFF”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ admin_label=”Stats” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ width=”77.3%” custom_padding=”115px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Media Rights Violations” number=”210″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#999999″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Jailed or Detained” number=”60″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#E09900″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Killings” number=”23″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#FF0000″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=”Fullwidth Slider” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”50px” header_letter_spacing=”0px” background_image=”http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg” background_position=”center” module_alignment=”center” min_height=”427px” custom_padding=”357px||395px|||” animation_style=”fade” auto=”on”][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”] THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.48)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"\n
[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=\"Fullwidth Slider\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"50px\" header_letter_spacing=\"7px\" background_image=\"http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg\" background_position=\"center\" module_alignment=\"center\" min_height=\"590px\" animation_style=\"fade\" auto=\"on\"][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_93J7LL-Dissolution-of-parliament-Nepal-protest-Prakash-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_92U7LM-Mock-funeral-for-sexual-assaults-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_94J2MF-Tashnuva-Anan-Shishir-Bangladesh-transgender-news-host-Munir-Uz-zaman-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/BANG_000_93Z8WT-Bangladesh-protest-Mushtaq-Ahmed-Munir-death-in-custody-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Maldives\/A-Covid-19-press-briefing-by-President-Solih-on-June-23-Credit-President_s-Office-2-scaled.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/AFG000_94J2MK-International-womens-day-Afghanistan-WAKIL-KOHSAR-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/LAW_000_8Z94D9-Afghan-President-Ashraf-Ghani-arrives-in-Herat-January-2021-HOSHANG-HASHIMI-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" min_height=\"1286.7px\" custom_margin=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" min_height=\"131px\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"57px|||||\" border_style_all=\"none\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" min_height=\"65px\" border_width_bottom=\"5px\" border_style_bottom=\"solid\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]Overview<\/strong><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_4\" admin_label=\"quote\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" animation_style=\"fade\"][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"3px|||||\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" width=\"97.3%\" min_height=\"1217px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<\/h1>\nPandemic, the Press and the New Digital Order<\/h3>\n
As the second wave of the Covid pandemic surged across South Asia in early 2021, journalists found themselves in the thick of the storm, without a safety net and scant institutional support. Battling not only the deadly virus, they mounted stiff resistance to states trying to control the narrative and plaster over the horrific reality. Journalists breaking stories of rising deaths, collapsing health systems and unpreparedness and mismanagement at the highest levels of government were silenced, hounded, arrested and penalised.<\/p>\n
Even as journalists also mourned the loss of their colleagues and family members, they continued to work in the most challenging circumstances to publicise the truth. They reported from the frontlines without adequate protective equipment, exposing themselves to infection to tell stories of the suffering in hospitals, in graveyards and crematoria. Many fell ill, many others continue to suffer from the long-term impacts of the Covid syndrome. Hundreds of others succumbed, unsung heroic storytellers of the apocalypse that engulfed them.<\/p>\n
To many others continued to tell one of the biggest stories of our times, while also enduring salary cuts and delays in wage payments, denial of protective personal equipment, medical insurance or reimbursement of massive medical bills to treat Covid contracted in the line of duty. Huge numbers of media workers were also rendered jobless or forced to resign in the wake of economic impacts of Covid-19. reeling under arrests and cases of sedition and terror, unrelenting trolling and abuse online, they wrote on. Some wrote on, even without a job or payment.<\/p>\n
Charges of \u201canti-national\u201d, \u201cagainst national security\u201d were widely used to curb dissent through archaic laws of sedition and colonial era laws of epidemic control. With courts admitting petitions challenging the constitutionality of some of these laws, there is reason to hope for change.<\/p>\n
The raging pandemic, accompanying lockdowns and economic crises were only piled on to existing barriers that the region\u2019s journalists already faced. Physical attacks and intimidation, lack of access to information, control and censorship; sharpened ethnic and religious cleavages; legal repercussions for their stories and an overall precarity of the media. Impunity for crimes against journalists continued, despite small gains. Yet, journalists bore witness and told the stories that needed to be told, with professional integrity, compassion and deep humanity.<\/p>\n
Regional trends<\/h3>\nTightening regulation and digital controls<\/h4>\n
Controlling the flow of information seemed to be an overriding preoccupation of governments across the region. From reigning in the burgeoning independent digital media and clamping down on critical voices on social media, governments and social media platforms fell short of upholding freedom of expression at a critical juncture.<\/p>\n
At a time when the free flow of information was literally a matter of life and death, governments intolerant of critical questions, tended to use the pandemic as a pretext to curb information, and any opinion that was deemed \u201canti-government\u201d. Social media presented a particular anxiety for governments trying to curb dissent, and unfortunately, social media giants did not adequately protect citizen\u2019s right to free speech, instead complying with unreasonable takedown notices from governments.<\/p>\n
Pakistan<\/strong> suffered under the harshest clampdown on dissent by any government. Media rights and freedom of expression took a severe beating, with the government seemingly leaping at the opportunity to deprive the media of both freedom and funds, driving an already beleaguered media industry into deeper crisis.\u00a0 The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) which criminalises free speech and gives overarching powers to law enforcement authorities, was overused in Pakistan to clamp down on free speech. The media, political opponents, activists and members of the public found the boundaries of free speech indiscriminately scrunched in violation of constitutional guarantees.<\/p>\nArbitrary blocking of independent websites, internet and communication shutdowns were regularly deployed to censor the media. This inevitably led to the proliferation of misinformation \u2013 which Pakistan could ill-afford in the midst of not only the pandemic, but civil strife and political upheaval.\u00a0 Cutting off connectivity in politically sensitive areas in an attempt to censor news had other adverse effects during the lockdown, mainly on health and education.<\/p>\n
In Bangladesh<\/strong>, it took the tragic custodial death in February 2021, of writer Mushtaq Ahmed incarcerated for ten months and repeatedly denied bail, to once more shine the spotlight on the draconian Digital Security Act (DSA) which has been widely used against journalists, bloggers and citizens to penalise free speech and critical opinion. The lone Cyber Crimes Tribunal, reeling under a staggering pending case load can barely manage due process in hearing cases, leave aside render justice.<\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, besides the time-honoured tactic of internet shutdowns to cut communications, the newly promulgated Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 gave the government the power to censor, order takedowns and block content without any recourse to appeal. Independent digital platforms termed the rules not just unconstitutional, but a blow to democracy itself, and have challenged this attempt at over-regulation in the highest court in the country. In addition to its attempt to control independent digital media, fast emerging as major players in the media landscape, the Indian government came down strongly on social media expression deemed to be critical of the government\u2019s handling of the pandemic. In the same vein, the new media Policy in Jammu and Kashmir (downgraded from state to centrally administered union territory in April 2019), issued in June 2020, was immediately viewed with disquiet by journalists, given that it empowers government officers to take action on \u201cfake news\u201d or \u201canti-national content\u201d.<\/p>\nAllegations of misinformation and rumour mongering were thrown at journalists and even citizens exposing the horrific ground reality of acute shortage of medical supplies, oxygen, overflowing hospitals and crematoria. Significantly, while content critical of the government was taken down, virulent hate speech against minorities and misogynist speech online thrived in India. Social media platforms Twitter and Facebook too succumbed to takedown requests by the government, failing to stand up for free speech.<\/p>\n
Across the region, governments displayed a remarkable disrespect towards the media, and took steps to increase regulation. In Nepal<\/strong>, the government moved ahead with tougher bills and regulations such as the Media Council Bill, the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, the Information Technology Bill, and the Special Service Bill \u2013 all of which have clauses that could undermine press freedom. The clampdown on social media has been proposed on pretexts of the \u201ccountry\u2019s sovereignty, security, unity or harmony\u201d. The Media Council Bill could erode the autonomy of the media, with government-appointed regulators, a provision that has been vehemently opposed by media rights organisations.<\/p>\nThe international norm of self-regulation by media was also violated in Sri Lanka<\/strong>, where in January 2021, the Cabinet of Ministers proposed to amend the Press Council Law to include electronic and new media and approved a proposal to \u2018structurally reform and reorganise\u2019 the Press Council to cover electronic and new media. The move was criticised by the Professional Web Journalists' Association which argued that the electronic and new media should be not controlled, but self-regulated with a stringent code of ethics developed by the media community itself.<\/p>\nLivelihood in peril<\/h4>\n
The pandemic year was also witness to dramatic loss of jobs in the media, across the region. Over 8,000 of Pakistan\u2019s<\/strong> estimated 20,000 journalists <\/span>lost their jobs in 2020<\/a> alone, and rural and district staff were more likely to be retrenched.<\/span><\/p>\nJournalists, mainly through the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), remained up in arms for most of the year and in early 2021 launched an \u201cenough is enough\u201d campaign across the country to protest job losses, pay cuts, censorship and rising intimidation. The media industry found new external supporters, including the legal community and civil society in institutional and organised partnerships with PFUJ to jointly resist the rising attacks on media freedoms, journalists\u2019 rights and public interest journalism in Pakistan.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, which saw a series of retrenchments from March 2020 onwards, there are no clear numbers of the job losses or salary cuts. <\/span>Estimates<\/a> put the figures in the thousands. Besides layoffs, salary cuts and delays in payments, media houses also threatened to sack staff if they wanted to work from home. The obstinacy of many managements led to staff in some media houses getting infected with the coronavirus en masse. Journalists from the regional press were harder hit, with fewer paying options than their English media counterparts. <\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) took up more than 500 complaints relating to job loss and non-payment of salary in Nepal<\/strong>. A survey conducted by the <\/span>FNJ in September 2020, revealed the desperate state of Nepal\u2019s journalists: the earning of 40 percent of journalists was affected by the pandemic and the nationwide lockdowns and women journalists were more severely impacted. Several media houses in Kathmandu suspended publications, cut down broadcast hours and decreased the size of the newspapers. The revenue of 75 percent of the once vibrant radio sector decreased due to the pandemic.<\/p>\nThe story was no different in Bangladesh<\/strong> where an estimated 1,250 journalists lost their jobs and several thousand faced salary cuts or irregular payments. While media owners blamed the pandemic for the drop in revenue and resultant salary cuts, trade unionists say that irregular payments were a norm of a section of media houses which then grasped at the pandemic as a justification to deny journalists their rights.<\/p>\nThe pandemic crisis however, only added to existing pressures that journalists across the region face. A major threat being the increasing polarisation on communal lines.<\/span><\/p>\nRising Extremism<\/h4>\n
South Asia has ravaged by religious, ethnic and caste divides for decades, but the growing cleavages of the last few years have been unprecedented. With hyper-nationalist parties in power in many countries in the region drawing votes and support from religiously aligned groups, the polity too has been sharply divided. Minorities in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have been particularly vulnerable, in this context of majoritarian politics. These divisions have inevitably affected the media. While some sections have added to the problem by exacerbating divisions and amplifying hate, others have had to struggle to remain independent.<\/p>\n
Existing fault lines were exacerbated by external situations that are likely to impact the whole region. The proposed withdrawal of US-NATO troops from Afghanistan by the coming September is feared to increase the Taliban's influence in Afghanistan<\/strong>, a development that could have a ripple effect in the region in terms of encouraging radicalism. Hard worn democratic and secular gains could be pushed back, with a direct impact on the media and individual journalists. Likewise, growing communalism in India<\/strong>, encouraged by the government in power, has a dangerous spill over effect in the neighbourhood, contributing to more polarisation and the strengthening of extremist groups. The media cannot be immune from attack, even as it attempts to uphold constitutional values, and the rights of women, minorities and the marginalised.<\/p>\nReligion in the Maldives<\/strong> is a no-go topic in public discourse, and the fear of being labelled anti-Islam contributes to the journalists practicing self-censorship of forgoing bylines while reporting on extremism in the country. As part of official control, the Communications Authority of Maldives blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Though social media use is growing, intimidation and deaths threats pose the greatest challenge for free expression online. The yet unsolved murders of journalist Ahmed Rilwan and blogger Yameen Rashid known for their vocal criticism of religious fundamentalism are grim reminders of the risks of speaking out for religious freedom or minority rights. In its World Report 2021, Human Rights Watch accused the government of failing to confront the influence of hard-line Islamist groups. \u201cOnline intimidation of human rights groups continued to have a chilling effect on civil society in 2020,\u201d and reiterated calls to tackle hate speech and violence online.<\/p>\nThe state response to tackling religious extremism however, often has serious implications for freedom of expression and civil rights. In Sri<\/strong> Lanka<\/strong>, the Prevention of Terrorism (De-radicalisation from Holding Violent Extremist Religious Ideology) Regulations were issued in march 2021, expanding on the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). Powers given to authorities to detain and \u2018rehabilitate\u2019 anyone who \u2018by words either spoken or intended to be read or by signs or by visible representations\u2019 causes the commission of violence or \u2018religious, racial or communal disharmony or feelings of ill will or hostility between different communities or racial or religious groups\u2019 is prone to misuse, fear activists. The spate of arrests in cases of hate speech, mostly of Tamil and Muslim minorities further reinforces this apprehension of selective use of power by law enforcement agencies.<\/p>\nWomen journalists in the firing line<\/h4>\n
The rampant vitriol and violence online were particularly targeted at women journalists in the region. Pakistani<\/strong> women journalists had a rough year, facing unrelenting abuse by organised troll armies, many backed by members of the ruling party, prompting them to release a petition taking the government to account. Similar was the case across the border in India<\/strong>, where online abuse took a heavy toll in an already stressful year of the pandemic. Sexist abuse, misogyny and spillover of online to offline stalking and violence became the price that women journalists paid for speaking out.<\/span><\/p>\nThe marginalised existence of women journalists in South Asia\u2019s media community is itself one of the factors contributing to precarity. A report released in early 2020 by the South Asia Women\u2019s Network, showed that women accounted for only 29 per cent of staff in Maldives<\/strong> media organisations. Only five per cent leadership roles were occupied by women. Paradoxically, the enrolment of women in journalism courses in the Maldives was higher than men at 3:1. This data begs the question: where do these professional women vanish? The answer probably lies in another finding of the study: women face immense discrimination, harassment and bullying at the workplace.<\/p>\nNepali<\/strong> women journalists too faced character assassination, body shaming, speculation about sexual links with prominent men, with women journalists from marginalised communities such as Madhesi and Dalit are more intensive attack. Women journalists fought back, and refused to be silenced, speedily blocking abusers, reporting them and also using aliases to move forward and express themselves online.<\/p>\nPatchy access to information<\/h4>\n
Almost all countries in South Asia sought to tighten controls over access to information, denying journalists a basic tool for accurate reporting. In Afghanistan<\/strong>, despite an Access to Information Law passed in 2014 and amended in 2018, there are barriers to information access. The setting up of an independent Information Access Commission with 65 government-level departments to assist in the transfer of information from government offices to the media, is potentially a step towards easing access. However, implementation remains a question, given other moves that restrict access, for example the 2020 restrictions authorising only governors to share information with the media, thus creating huge bottlenecks. Moreover, with the imminent withdrawal of the US-NATO troops in the coming year, the barriers to accessing information regarding the opaque agencies of security, justice and peace will undoubtedly impact credible reporting at this crucial juncture.<\/p>\nIn Bhutan<\/strong>, access to information is still wrapped up in red-tape and complicated bureaucratic procedure in a hierarchical set up, necessitating permissions to record videos or take a photo. Besides media persons, researchers and scholars in Bhutan are also coming up against the same obstacles. Free speech and expression as well as pursuit of research are thus impeded by official barriers.<\/p>\nDespite the passage of the Right to Information Act in the Maldives<\/strong> six years ago, a culture of secrecy persists and journalists are hard put to access information from certain state agencies. A survey by the Human Rights Commission of Maldives released in December 2020 showed that a majority of people were dissatisfied with access to official information and only 36 percent found the right to information law to have been helpful.<\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, the repercussions of the 2019 amendments to the once robust Right to Information Act could be seen during the pandemic when access to information was vital \u2013 access to data on funds, vaccine roll out and health infrastructure was repeatedly blocked by official agencies and the Central Information Commission did little to enable the flow of critical information.<\/p>\nLikewise, Sri Lanka<\/strong> too witnessed the dilution of its Right to Information Commission, which could affect its independent functioning.<\/p>\nWelcome pushback<\/h4>\n
\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Despite the relentless battles on several fronts, while struggling to stay afloat, South Asian journalists valiantly put up a resistance to the onslaught on media rights in all countries of the region. Challenges in court, mobilising and collective action despite the restrictions in mobility and the overwhelming public health crisis, were evidence of a spirited defiance.<\/p>\nThe attempt to control the digital space by governments in several countries in the region was met with a heartening push back. In Pakistan,<\/strong> independent online journalism platforms together formed the Digital Media Alliance of Pakistan (DigiMAP<\/a>) to challenge and resist the state\u2019s increasing authoritarianism on national dialogues initiated by grassroots communities. DigiMAP represents the emerging bold new ecosystem of independent media start-ups that have taken it upon themselves to champion the cause of public interest journalism that the legacy media has been forced to surrender before an increasingly hostile state. DigiMAP also put out a strong statement<\/a> against the new digital regulations.<\/p>\nDespite the burgeoning digital media in India<\/strong> and its vital role in promoting independent journalism, there was until now no single body representing the digital news media. Eleven digital media organisations came together in October 2020 to launch the DIGIPUB News India Foundation \u201cto represent, amplify and evolve best practices to build a robust digital news ecology that is truly world-class, independent and upholds the highest standards of journalism,\u201d One of its first actions was to challenge the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 in court, as an infringement of freedom of expression.<\/p>\n
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THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA<\/span><\/h1>\n[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” min_height=”554.9px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false”][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ min_height=”131px” custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”57px|||||” border_style_all=”none”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” min_height=”65px” border_width_bottom=”5px” border_style_bottom=”solid” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Overview<\/strong><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nBearing Witness<\/h3>\n
South Asia witnessed major political and economic upheaval this past year, even as the region was slowly emerging from the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic. While 23 journalists lost their lives and others were subjected to more than 60 attacks by the police, armed militia, vigilante mobs, politicians, local mafia and others, the broader political events continued to impact the security of journalists and their ability to carry out their professional duties.<\/p>\n
From the takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban in August 2021, to the massive democratic protests against the Sri Lankan government in April 2022 that led the country into its worst economic crisis since independence in 1948, the media in South Asia has borne witness to some watershed moments in history, taking severe beatings but also standing strong to speak truth to power.<\/p>\n
Afghanistan endured the grimmest of periods, with the hasty withdrawal of NATO troops in the country after two decades of war, accompanied by the inexorable takeover of the country by the Taliban, province by province, leading up to the eventual capitulation of Kabul on August 15, 2021. While targeted killings of journalists in the country declined, routine harassment, intimidation and even torture of independent media have continued unabated. Unsurprisingly, job losses have been dire. At particular risk are those journalists belonging to minority communities and women, who were swiftly restricted or banned from working. Close to 600 journalists have now reportedly fled the country, hoping to build new lives for themselves and continue to tell the stories of their people.<\/p>\n
In December 2021, Bangladesh\u2019s landmark 50 years of independence marking the day that the country\u2019s people achieved liberation, was over-shadowed by the ongoing climate of fear that continues to aggressively curtail freedom of expression nationally.<\/p>\n
Across South Asia, the stifling of free speech overall and the harsh consequences for those who speak out was an overwhelming reality across the region. With the large youthful populations of India, Pakistan and other countries in the region taking to the digital space, government and corporate control over the sphere has emerged as a critical and serious concern for media sustainability.<\/p>\n
In Nepal, parliamentary and provincial elections scheduled for late 2022 are set to determine the government for the next five years and will also shape the future of the legal and regulatory environment for the media. The current trend of media-related laws constricting free speech in Nepal is leading to an environment of self-censorship and one that is being fiercely challenged by Nepal\u2019s defiant and robust media collective.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
The media in South Asia has borne witness to some watershed moments in history, taking severe beatings but also standing strong to speak truth to power.\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”SRI LANKA-POLITICS-ECONOMY-PROTEST” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
As Sri Lanka grapples with its worst economic crisis in memory, demonstrations in Colombo and across the Island have demanded the government\u2019s resignation. Credit: Ishara S. Kodikara \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nVirtual Control<\/h3>\n
Controlling the online space was a preoccupation of governments across the region.<\/p>\n
Bangladesh saw a stupendous ninefold increase in 2021 over the previous year, in cases filed under its stringent Digital Security Act (DSA) for alleged online criticism of officials, including the prime minister and the country\u2019s founder. In the face of criticism of the DSA and its propensity to criminalise free speech \u2013 an admission made by Bangladesh\u2019s Law Minister himself \u2013 the authorities promised to enact a Data Protection Act. However, the proposed draft contains vague terminology and gives the government arbitrary power to penalise users of the digital space. \u00a0<\/p>\n
Likewise in Sri Lanka, where the parliament in March 2022 passed the Personal Data Protection Bill, concerns have been expressed about the impact of the new law on media reporting and the severe restrictions on the right to information. Critics say the bill could hamper reporting on issues such as corruption, and new provisions on \u2018official secrecy\u2019 could restrict the public\u2019s right to information. The provision empowering the concerned minister to appoint any government institution as the Data Protection Authority (DPA), raises concerns about the autonomy of the institution.<\/p>\n
In Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers were subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, with ill-defined provisions that allow arbitrary penalties to be slapped on those deemed to have crossed the line.<\/p>\n
In Nepal, bills sitting at the federal and provincial levels and awaiting determination do not bode well for press freedom. The Information Technology Bill, the Nepal Media Council Bill, and the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, are all in the pipeline despite concerns raised by stakeholders about the potential of these proposed laws to criminalise journalism itself.<\/p>\n
In early April, in a win for advocates of free speech and in response to a petition filed by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), the Islamabad High Court declared the problematic amendment to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) null and void.<\/p>\n
The collusion between governments and social media conglomerates was exposed in a series of investigative articles by India-based The Reporters Collective<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0Ad Watch,\u00a0<\/em>and published by Al Jazeera\u00a0in March 2022. The investigation found that the Facebook advertisement platform \u201csystematically undercut political competition\u201d in India, giving the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) an \u201cunfair advantage\u201d over other political competitors in the elections. The analysis was based on an examination of 500,000 political advertisements placed on Facebook and Instagram between February 2019 and November 2020 \u2014 during which India\u2019s 2019 General Elections and nine State Assembly elections were held. It also analysed how these unfairly promoted the BJP\u2019s campaigns on the platform.<\/p>\nGovernment propensity to monitor and regulate their citizens was a running theme for the region. India was one of 50 countries where citizens were subjected to surveillance by the spyware Pegasus manufactured by the Israeli group NSO and sold only to governments.<\/p>\n
The data analysed by The Wire<\/em>, part of the international collaboration between French non-profit Forbidden Stories, Amnesty International and 16 media organisations titled \u201cPegasus Project\u201d and released in July 2021, showed that most were targeted between 2018 and 2019, in the run-up to general elections in India. At least 40 Indian journalists are said to be among 300 others targeted, including a Supreme Court judge.<\/p>\nAllegations by the Opposition in Sri Lanka also raised concerns about the use of Pegasus to spy on journalists in the country. Digital security concerns have now become intrinsically part of overall safety and security concerns for journalists in South Asia.<\/p>\n
Misinformation and fake news during the Covid-19 pandemic, which admittedly created public health concerns, was often used as a justification for government control of the media. In Bhutan, the government tightly controlled the media narrative, often in a heavy-handed manner, regulating what and when to report, in the guise of fighting misinformation. On some occasions, the seeming conflict between the right to health and collective rights and press freedom swung in favour of censorship and control.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
In Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers have been subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_324V7C7-Uttar-Pradesh-state-Yogi-Adityanath-after-Bharatiya-Janata-Partys-BJP-win-in-the-state-assembly-elections-SANJAY-KANOJIA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-POLITICS-VOTE” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Supporters of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrate outside the party office in Lucknow on March 10, 2022, on the day of counting of votes for the Uttar Pradesh state assembly elections. Credit: Sanjay Kanojia \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nDealing with hate speech<\/h3>\n
What is clear is that the media in South Asia is going through severe trials and tribulations, battling deep economic crises as well as political polarisation, all of which threaten media freedom and media\u2019s very existence.<\/p>\n
In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that the online spread of hate and misinformation is a profitable business. When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/p>\n
However, in the guise of preventing misinformation, over regulation of content is compromising media freedom. India\u2019s Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, are an example of that overreach. Unfettered powers and misuse by the government were displayed in the blacking out of channels for alleged \u201csecurity\u201d reasons.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Similar overreach is also feared in Pakistan with the introduction in November 2021 of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act, with the purported aim of providing a defence mechanism for journalists. The controversial Section 6 prohibits journalists from \u201cspreading false information\u201d, and producing material that \u201cadvocates hatred\u201d, or constitutes \u201cincitement to discrimination, hostility or violence\u201d. Such vague definitions have the precise potential for the government to excessively regulate online content.<\/p>\n
In the Maldives, new hate speech provisions were added in November 2021 to the penal code to criminalise accusations of apostasy, unless a person explicitly renounces Islam. A section that prohibits \u201ccriticism of Islam in a public medium with the intention of causing disregard\u201d was amended to also criminalise publicly insulting or disparaging the Quran, God or Prophet Mohamed. The new provision adds to the 2008 Maldives constitution that outlaws speech that is “contrary to any tenet of Islam\u201d.<\/p>\n
The country maintains reservations to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights’ Article 18 on freedom of thought, conscience and religion, while the Communications Authority of Maldives regularly blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Compounded with that, the ongoing fear and threat of attacks by vigilante groups is continuing to encourage self-censorship on digital platforms.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_220324-Danish-Siddiqui.jpg” title_text=”Memorial for Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(0,0,0,0)” min_height=”529px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Candles are placed by colleagues next to a portrait of Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui, who was killed in the crossfire while covering a fierce battle between Afghan security forces and Taliban militants on July 16, 2021. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nStruggle for survival<\/h3>\n
For the media in South Asia, the year was not only one of maintaining high standards of journalistic content, but also one where the sheer struggle to survive was paramount.<\/p>\n
The media in Afghanistan was all but decimated, with more than 300 media outlets shut down, and unable to continue operations due to severe economic unviability and the collapse of much-needed foreign funds after the Taliban claimed control.<\/p>\n
Even in relatively peaceful Bhutan, the media has barely managed to survive. Repeated lockdowns during the pandemic brought to the fore the media\u2019s over reliance on government advertising which continued to decline due to the overall sluggish economy. Austerity measures adopted by most media houses included cutting down on staff and field reporting. They were forced to rely on government hand-outs, a move that directly impacted media freedom. Many senior and trained professionals left the industry and many newsrooms dwindled to just an editor and two or three reporters.<\/p>\n
The lasting effects of the pandemic were seen in the media industry in India where the economic downturn led to loss of advertising revue. Over-dependence on government advertisements was linked to self-censorship and patterning news content to suit the ruling dispensation. The crisis has seen a shift in the revenue models from advertisement-led to paid content, with more and more legacy media instituting paywalls and subscription-driven models.<\/p>\n
The Nepali media too staggered. Under the weight of the economic crisis, journalists\u2019 job security was one of the focus areas of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), which negotiated with media houses, staged protests and used the courts to assert labour rights, with some success.<\/p>\n
Interestingly, the pandemic years saw the growth of niche digital news outlets producing special focus stories and highlighting issues and regions forgotten by the mainstream media. Clearly, the message for media\u2019s sustainability is that readers need to pay for independent news and reportage that accurately reflects ground realities in all their complexity. The newer digital platforms also appear to be building newsrooms that are diverse and inclusive, representing marginalised sections beyond mere tokensim.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_210914-Journalists-participated-a-sit-in-demonstration-to-protest-against-the-PMDA-bill-.-Photo-Credit-RIUJ-e1650512739116.jpg” title_text=”OVER_210914 Journalists participated a ‘sit in’ demonstration to protest against the PMDA bill . Photo Credit RIUJ” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Pakistani journalists participate in a \u2018sit in\u2019 demonstration from September 12-13, 2021, in protest against the proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) bill, which aimed to establish a sole authority to regulate all film, electronic, print and digital media. Credit: RIUJ<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nAway from home<\/h3>\n
The year 2021 was particularly difficult for journalists in Afghanistan and parts of India such as Jammu and Kashmir. Many reporters were silenced due to pressure from the authorities while to many others were forced to leave their homes and even countries due to security reasons.<\/p>\n
The starkest example was that of Afghan journalists, many who were forced to flee their \u00a0homes and families overnight. The unplanned and sudden exodus saw many journalists living for months in camps in third countries, uncertain about their futures. Some in their new homes, while adjusting to new cultures and languages, are still awaiting work-permits and outlets for their journalistic output. Several Afghan women journalists, who left after being targeted by the Taliban, hope to continue to raise issues for Afghan women.<\/p>\n
The repression in Jammu and Kashmir over the past year led several Kashmiri journalists to leave the state. Intimidation, harassment and implication in fake cases has become almost routine, hampering the media from doing its job. The arrest of some of the more vocal journalists sent a chilling message to the media community, which has a tough choice between self-censorship and jail.<\/p>\n
The political crisis in Myanmar had a spill over effect in neighbouring India, which has long been home to exiled Burmese journalists. In April 2021, three journalists who worked with Mizzima, a multimedia news organisation who had taken refuge in the bordering Indian state of Manipur were in danger of being sent back to Myanmar where they would face a jail term or worse. In a show of solidarity, the All Manipur Working Journalists\u2019 Union (AMWJU) took up advocacy on behalf of the journalists to allow them to remain. An Indian court later granted them sanctuary.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-AFGHANISTAN-CONFLICT-PROTEST” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Afghans residing in India protest the Taliban\u2019s military takeover of Afghanistan outside the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) office in New Delhi on August 23, 2021. Across South Asia, displays of international solidarity marked a collective denigration of Afghanistan\u2019s new regime. Credit: Sajjad HUSSAIN \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nHope from the judiciary<\/h3>\n
With governments in the region trampling upon citizens\u2019 rights, the judiciary in many countries stepped in to uphold constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of speech and expression and freedom of the press.<\/p>\n
In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government. In petitions challenging the government\u2019s illegal surveillance, in the wake of the Pegasus investigation in July 2021, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India, NV Ramana said, \u201callegations are serious if the reports are correct\u2026The truth has to come out\u201d.<\/p>\n
In Pakistan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in a landmark ruling in April 2022, struck down criminal defamation in the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act, a decisive order in favour of press freedom. The IHC by converting letters by the PFUJ regarding illegal terminations, irregular salaries and safety issues into petitions, is another positive move towards journalists\u2019 rights.<\/p>\n
In some cases, lower courts pushing for rule of law also came as a welcome step. A local court directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan to ensure filing of investigation reports in court regarding 1,200 pending inquiries relating to online harassment, identity theft, pornography and other offences registered in Karachi.<\/p>\n
In the Maldives, on January 19, 2022, a criminal court found two men guilty of murdering blogger Yameen Rasheed in 2017 and sentenced them to life imprisonment. The police said that the group of radicalised young men\u00a0believed\u00a0that Yameen deserved to be killed for \u201cinsulting Islam\u201d. Although the trial was bumpy, witnesses were intimidated and the authorities\u2019 professionalism was called into question, that an indictment of the perpetrators was reached is a step forward.<\/p>\n
Likewise, the April 13, 2022, verdict of a Dhaka court sentencing to death four of those accused of murdering eminent secular writer Professor Humayun Azad in 2004 provides a hope that the wheels of justice are turning, albeit very slowly.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9AP846-Nepalese-Students-Union-carry-effigy-of-President-Bidhya-Devi-Bhandari-and-PM-Sharma-Oli-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP-e1650512087636.jpg” title_text=”NEPAL-POLITICS-PROTEST2″ force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Members of the Nepalese Students Union carry an effigy of President Bidhya Devi Bhandri and Prime Minister Sharma Oli on May 25, 2021, after Nepal’s parliament was dissolved for the second time in just five months. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nUN Special Rapporteurs speak<\/h3>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern. Highlighting the harassment of journalists in Jammu and Kashmir, the UN Special Rapporteur on promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan, and Elina Steinert, the vice-chair of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention in June 3, 2021, urged, \u201call necessary interim measures be taken to halt the alleged violations and prevent their re-occurrence and in the event that the investigations support or suggest the allegations to be correct, to ensure the accountability of any person(s) responsible for the alleged violations,\u201d The report cited examples of\u00a0jailed journalists and the use of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and other counter-terror laws on journalists.<\/p>\n
In March 2022, \u00a0UN human rights experts including from the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances<\/a><\/span>, Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions<\/a><\/span>; Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders<\/a><\/span> and the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression<\/a><\/span> called upon Bangladesh to \u201cimmediately cease reprisals against human rights defenders and relatives of forcibly disappeared persons for their activism and co-operation with international human rights bodies and UN mechanisms.\u201d This statement was issued following the threats and intimidation of civil society and human rights defender after the announcement of sanctions imposed by the United States of America against top Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) officials on December 10, 2021.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/p>\nRight to information<\/h3>\n
Access to information has always been a thorny issue in the region, with most governments refusing to be transparent or accountable. The arrest of Bangladeshi journalist Rozina Islam in April 2021 under the Official Secrets Actis was a stark example of how a journalist seeking to investigate suspected corruption into the country\u2019s health ministry was not only denied access to information but was also penalised for it.<\/p>\n
Even in the Maldives, where its Right to Information Act ranks 16th out of 128 RTI laws in the world, things are not smooth: the country\u2019s third Information Commissioner took up his post in September 2021, nearly seven months after the former commissioner resigned.<\/span><\/p>\nIn Pakistan, a <\/span>February 2022, amendment to the cybercrimes law, PECA also threatened the right to information. But a progressive ruling by the Islamabad High Court declared the entire ordinance unconstitutional, thus protecting the Right to Information guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9XE9MK-mural-to-spread-awareness-on-Covid-19-in-Mumbai-on-January-29-2022-Punit-PARANJPE-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-HEALTH-VIRUS” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
India\u2019s intense struggle with Covid-19 is evident as pedestrians pass a mural depicting Mexican painter Frida Kahlo wearing a facemask in Mumbai on January 29, 2022. Credit: Punit Paranjpe \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nGender inequity<\/h3>\n
The sharp decline in gender equity was nowhere starker than in Afghanistan, where women journalists were denied their right to work and be active in the public sphere. The forced retreat has undone two decades of work in enhancing gender equity in the Afghan media.<\/p>\n
The November 2021 regulation issued by the Taliban government with 11 \u2018rules\u2019, urging the media to refrain from broadcasting TV programs and dramas which featured women meant that women have almost disappeared from public view, except in roles and attire approved by the Taliban. Women journalists, like all professional Afghan women, were prohibited from driving alone, their mobility tied to the presence of a male family member.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile outspoken women journalists in Pakistan faced intense online harassment, including being trolled by even senior government officials who joined the online intimidation and bullying.<\/p>\n
In India, the battle to push women out of the online space was unrelenting. Vicious online abuse, trolling, death and rape threats were particularly severe for Dalit and Muslim women who were regularly silenced and abused. In July 2021, an online \u2018auction\u2019 of prominent Muslim women, including journalists called \u2018Sulli deals\u2019 and once more in early 2022 called \u2018Bulli Bai\u2019 (\u2018Sulli\u2019 and \u2018Bulli\u2019 are derogatory slang for Muslim women) was launched. The Internet Freedom Foundation called the fake online auction of almost 100 Muslim women a \u201cblatant violation of their data security and privacy rights.\u201d These online apps on the GitHub platform, profiling Muslim women activists, journalists, analysts, artists and researchers were taken down after vigorous protests.<\/p>\n
The good news is that for every violation of women journalists\u2019 rights, there has been an equally strong resistance.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9PW2H6-Bangladeshi-Hindus-stage-a-demonstration-in-Dhaka-in-October-2021-Munir-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg” title_text=”BANGLADESH-RELIGION-HINDUISM-PROTEST” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Bangladeshi Hindus stage a demonstration in Dhaka on October 18, 2021 to protest against the fresh religious violence against Hindus in the country. Credit: Munir Uz Zaman \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”4px||9px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” custom_margin=”1px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\n<\/h3>\nWay forward<\/h3>\n
The bleak post-pandemic year has held many lessons for the media in the region. The first is that of sustainability and survival, and the need to diversify and remain relevant. Simultaneously it is also about lobbying for journalists\u2019 rights \u2013 on the streets, in boardrooms and in courts.<\/p>\n
The other is the importance of solidarity and leveraging networks to support media colleagues both within and across borders. The need to speak out and act has never been as important at a time when hyper nationalism is making states fold in unto themselves. In the case of Afghan journalists, for example, there is a need for intervention on several fronts \u2013 from financial assistance to capacity building and supporting those in exile. The international media community must continue to train the spotlight on the crisis of the media in Afghanistan and extend long term support and solidarity.<\/p>\n
The focus must also remain on Sri Lanka, where the economic crisis is likely to be long drawn out, and media freedoms likely to be compromised as the state attempts to repair the damage. International solidarity at such a time is crucial.<\/p>\n
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Click here to download pdf of Overview and Special Reports<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Feature Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#e5e5e5″ module_alignment=”center” min_height=”238px” height=”331px” max_height=”486px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|-3px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” top_divider_style=”arrow2″ top_divider_color=”#FFFFFF”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ admin_label=”Stats” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ width=”77.3%” custom_padding=”115px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Media Rights Violations” number=”210″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#999999″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Jailed or Detained” number=”60″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#E09900″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Killings” number=”23″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#FF0000″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=”Fullwidth Slider” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”50px” header_letter_spacing=”0px” background_image=”http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg” background_position=”center” module_alignment=”center” min_height=”427px” custom_padding=”357px||395px|||” animation_style=”fade” auto=”on”][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”] THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.48)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"\n
[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=\"Fullwidth Slider\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"50px\" header_letter_spacing=\"7px\" background_image=\"http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg\" background_position=\"center\" module_alignment=\"center\" min_height=\"590px\" animation_style=\"fade\" auto=\"on\"][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_93J7LL-Dissolution-of-parliament-Nepal-protest-Prakash-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_92U7LM-Mock-funeral-for-sexual-assaults-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_94J2MF-Tashnuva-Anan-Shishir-Bangladesh-transgender-news-host-Munir-Uz-zaman-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/BANG_000_93Z8WT-Bangladesh-protest-Mushtaq-Ahmed-Munir-death-in-custody-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Maldives\/A-Covid-19-press-briefing-by-President-Solih-on-June-23-Credit-President_s-Office-2-scaled.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/AFG000_94J2MK-International-womens-day-Afghanistan-WAKIL-KOHSAR-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/LAW_000_8Z94D9-Afghan-President-Ashraf-Ghani-arrives-in-Herat-January-2021-HOSHANG-HASHIMI-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" min_height=\"1286.7px\" custom_margin=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" min_height=\"131px\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"57px|||||\" border_style_all=\"none\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" min_height=\"65px\" border_width_bottom=\"5px\" border_style_bottom=\"solid\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]Overview<\/strong><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_4\" admin_label=\"quote\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" animation_style=\"fade\"][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"3px|||||\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" width=\"97.3%\" min_height=\"1217px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<\/h1>\nPandemic, the Press and the New Digital Order<\/h3>\n
As the second wave of the Covid pandemic surged across South Asia in early 2021, journalists found themselves in the thick of the storm, without a safety net and scant institutional support. Battling not only the deadly virus, they mounted stiff resistance to states trying to control the narrative and plaster over the horrific reality. Journalists breaking stories of rising deaths, collapsing health systems and unpreparedness and mismanagement at the highest levels of government were silenced, hounded, arrested and penalised.<\/p>\n
Even as journalists also mourned the loss of their colleagues and family members, they continued to work in the most challenging circumstances to publicise the truth. They reported from the frontlines without adequate protective equipment, exposing themselves to infection to tell stories of the suffering in hospitals, in graveyards and crematoria. Many fell ill, many others continue to suffer from the long-term impacts of the Covid syndrome. Hundreds of others succumbed, unsung heroic storytellers of the apocalypse that engulfed them.<\/p>\n
To many others continued to tell one of the biggest stories of our times, while also enduring salary cuts and delays in wage payments, denial of protective personal equipment, medical insurance or reimbursement of massive medical bills to treat Covid contracted in the line of duty. Huge numbers of media workers were also rendered jobless or forced to resign in the wake of economic impacts of Covid-19. reeling under arrests and cases of sedition and terror, unrelenting trolling and abuse online, they wrote on. Some wrote on, even without a job or payment.<\/p>\n
Charges of \u201canti-national\u201d, \u201cagainst national security\u201d were widely used to curb dissent through archaic laws of sedition and colonial era laws of epidemic control. With courts admitting petitions challenging the constitutionality of some of these laws, there is reason to hope for change.<\/p>\n
The raging pandemic, accompanying lockdowns and economic crises were only piled on to existing barriers that the region\u2019s journalists already faced. Physical attacks and intimidation, lack of access to information, control and censorship; sharpened ethnic and religious cleavages; legal repercussions for their stories and an overall precarity of the media. Impunity for crimes against journalists continued, despite small gains. Yet, journalists bore witness and told the stories that needed to be told, with professional integrity, compassion and deep humanity.<\/p>\n
Regional trends<\/h3>\nTightening regulation and digital controls<\/h4>\n
Controlling the flow of information seemed to be an overriding preoccupation of governments across the region. From reigning in the burgeoning independent digital media and clamping down on critical voices on social media, governments and social media platforms fell short of upholding freedom of expression at a critical juncture.<\/p>\n
At a time when the free flow of information was literally a matter of life and death, governments intolerant of critical questions, tended to use the pandemic as a pretext to curb information, and any opinion that was deemed \u201canti-government\u201d. Social media presented a particular anxiety for governments trying to curb dissent, and unfortunately, social media giants did not adequately protect citizen\u2019s right to free speech, instead complying with unreasonable takedown notices from governments.<\/p>\n
Pakistan<\/strong> suffered under the harshest clampdown on dissent by any government. Media rights and freedom of expression took a severe beating, with the government seemingly leaping at the opportunity to deprive the media of both freedom and funds, driving an already beleaguered media industry into deeper crisis.\u00a0 The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) which criminalises free speech and gives overarching powers to law enforcement authorities, was overused in Pakistan to clamp down on free speech. The media, political opponents, activists and members of the public found the boundaries of free speech indiscriminately scrunched in violation of constitutional guarantees.<\/p>\nArbitrary blocking of independent websites, internet and communication shutdowns were regularly deployed to censor the media. This inevitably led to the proliferation of misinformation \u2013 which Pakistan could ill-afford in the midst of not only the pandemic, but civil strife and political upheaval.\u00a0 Cutting off connectivity in politically sensitive areas in an attempt to censor news had other adverse effects during the lockdown, mainly on health and education.<\/p>\n
In Bangladesh<\/strong>, it took the tragic custodial death in February 2021, of writer Mushtaq Ahmed incarcerated for ten months and repeatedly denied bail, to once more shine the spotlight on the draconian Digital Security Act (DSA) which has been widely used against journalists, bloggers and citizens to penalise free speech and critical opinion. The lone Cyber Crimes Tribunal, reeling under a staggering pending case load can barely manage due process in hearing cases, leave aside render justice.<\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, besides the time-honoured tactic of internet shutdowns to cut communications, the newly promulgated Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 gave the government the power to censor, order takedowns and block content without any recourse to appeal. Independent digital platforms termed the rules not just unconstitutional, but a blow to democracy itself, and have challenged this attempt at over-regulation in the highest court in the country. In addition to its attempt to control independent digital media, fast emerging as major players in the media landscape, the Indian government came down strongly on social media expression deemed to be critical of the government\u2019s handling of the pandemic. In the same vein, the new media Policy in Jammu and Kashmir (downgraded from state to centrally administered union territory in April 2019), issued in June 2020, was immediately viewed with disquiet by journalists, given that it empowers government officers to take action on \u201cfake news\u201d or \u201canti-national content\u201d.<\/p>\nAllegations of misinformation and rumour mongering were thrown at journalists and even citizens exposing the horrific ground reality of acute shortage of medical supplies, oxygen, overflowing hospitals and crematoria. Significantly, while content critical of the government was taken down, virulent hate speech against minorities and misogynist speech online thrived in India. Social media platforms Twitter and Facebook too succumbed to takedown requests by the government, failing to stand up for free speech.<\/p>\n
Across the region, governments displayed a remarkable disrespect towards the media, and took steps to increase regulation. In Nepal<\/strong>, the government moved ahead with tougher bills and regulations such as the Media Council Bill, the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, the Information Technology Bill, and the Special Service Bill \u2013 all of which have clauses that could undermine press freedom. The clampdown on social media has been proposed on pretexts of the \u201ccountry\u2019s sovereignty, security, unity or harmony\u201d. The Media Council Bill could erode the autonomy of the media, with government-appointed regulators, a provision that has been vehemently opposed by media rights organisations.<\/p>\nThe international norm of self-regulation by media was also violated in Sri Lanka<\/strong>, where in January 2021, the Cabinet of Ministers proposed to amend the Press Council Law to include electronic and new media and approved a proposal to \u2018structurally reform and reorganise\u2019 the Press Council to cover electronic and new media. The move was criticised by the Professional Web Journalists' Association which argued that the electronic and new media should be not controlled, but self-regulated with a stringent code of ethics developed by the media community itself.<\/p>\nLivelihood in peril<\/h4>\n
The pandemic year was also witness to dramatic loss of jobs in the media, across the region. Over 8,000 of Pakistan\u2019s<\/strong> estimated 20,000 journalists <\/span>lost their jobs in 2020<\/a> alone, and rural and district staff were more likely to be retrenched.<\/span><\/p>\nJournalists, mainly through the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), remained up in arms for most of the year and in early 2021 launched an \u201cenough is enough\u201d campaign across the country to protest job losses, pay cuts, censorship and rising intimidation. The media industry found new external supporters, including the legal community and civil society in institutional and organised partnerships with PFUJ to jointly resist the rising attacks on media freedoms, journalists\u2019 rights and public interest journalism in Pakistan.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, which saw a series of retrenchments from March 2020 onwards, there are no clear numbers of the job losses or salary cuts. <\/span>Estimates<\/a> put the figures in the thousands. Besides layoffs, salary cuts and delays in payments, media houses also threatened to sack staff if they wanted to work from home. The obstinacy of many managements led to staff in some media houses getting infected with the coronavirus en masse. Journalists from the regional press were harder hit, with fewer paying options than their English media counterparts. <\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) took up more than 500 complaints relating to job loss and non-payment of salary in Nepal<\/strong>. A survey conducted by the <\/span>FNJ in September 2020, revealed the desperate state of Nepal\u2019s journalists: the earning of 40 percent of journalists was affected by the pandemic and the nationwide lockdowns and women journalists were more severely impacted. Several media houses in Kathmandu suspended publications, cut down broadcast hours and decreased the size of the newspapers. The revenue of 75 percent of the once vibrant radio sector decreased due to the pandemic.<\/p>\nThe story was no different in Bangladesh<\/strong> where an estimated 1,250 journalists lost their jobs and several thousand faced salary cuts or irregular payments. While media owners blamed the pandemic for the drop in revenue and resultant salary cuts, trade unionists say that irregular payments were a norm of a section of media houses which then grasped at the pandemic as a justification to deny journalists their rights.<\/p>\nThe pandemic crisis however, only added to existing pressures that journalists across the region face. A major threat being the increasing polarisation on communal lines.<\/span><\/p>\nRising Extremism<\/h4>\n
South Asia has ravaged by religious, ethnic and caste divides for decades, but the growing cleavages of the last few years have been unprecedented. With hyper-nationalist parties in power in many countries in the region drawing votes and support from religiously aligned groups, the polity too has been sharply divided. Minorities in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have been particularly vulnerable, in this context of majoritarian politics. These divisions have inevitably affected the media. While some sections have added to the problem by exacerbating divisions and amplifying hate, others have had to struggle to remain independent.<\/p>\n
Existing fault lines were exacerbated by external situations that are likely to impact the whole region. The proposed withdrawal of US-NATO troops from Afghanistan by the coming September is feared to increase the Taliban's influence in Afghanistan<\/strong>, a development that could have a ripple effect in the region in terms of encouraging radicalism. Hard worn democratic and secular gains could be pushed back, with a direct impact on the media and individual journalists. Likewise, growing communalism in India<\/strong>, encouraged by the government in power, has a dangerous spill over effect in the neighbourhood, contributing to more polarisation and the strengthening of extremist groups. The media cannot be immune from attack, even as it attempts to uphold constitutional values, and the rights of women, minorities and the marginalised.<\/p>\nReligion in the Maldives<\/strong> is a no-go topic in public discourse, and the fear of being labelled anti-Islam contributes to the journalists practicing self-censorship of forgoing bylines while reporting on extremism in the country. As part of official control, the Communications Authority of Maldives blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Though social media use is growing, intimidation and deaths threats pose the greatest challenge for free expression online. The yet unsolved murders of journalist Ahmed Rilwan and blogger Yameen Rashid known for their vocal criticism of religious fundamentalism are grim reminders of the risks of speaking out for religious freedom or minority rights. In its World Report 2021, Human Rights Watch accused the government of failing to confront the influence of hard-line Islamist groups. \u201cOnline intimidation of human rights groups continued to have a chilling effect on civil society in 2020,\u201d and reiterated calls to tackle hate speech and violence online.<\/p>\nThe state response to tackling religious extremism however, often has serious implications for freedom of expression and civil rights. In Sri<\/strong> Lanka<\/strong>, the Prevention of Terrorism (De-radicalisation from Holding Violent Extremist Religious Ideology) Regulations were issued in march 2021, expanding on the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). Powers given to authorities to detain and \u2018rehabilitate\u2019 anyone who \u2018by words either spoken or intended to be read or by signs or by visible representations\u2019 causes the commission of violence or \u2018religious, racial or communal disharmony or feelings of ill will or hostility between different communities or racial or religious groups\u2019 is prone to misuse, fear activists. The spate of arrests in cases of hate speech, mostly of Tamil and Muslim minorities further reinforces this apprehension of selective use of power by law enforcement agencies.<\/p>\nWomen journalists in the firing line<\/h4>\n
The rampant vitriol and violence online were particularly targeted at women journalists in the region. Pakistani<\/strong> women journalists had a rough year, facing unrelenting abuse by organised troll armies, many backed by members of the ruling party, prompting them to release a petition taking the government to account. Similar was the case across the border in India<\/strong>, where online abuse took a heavy toll in an already stressful year of the pandemic. Sexist abuse, misogyny and spillover of online to offline stalking and violence became the price that women journalists paid for speaking out.<\/span><\/p>\nThe marginalised existence of women journalists in South Asia\u2019s media community is itself one of the factors contributing to precarity. A report released in early 2020 by the South Asia Women\u2019s Network, showed that women accounted for only 29 per cent of staff in Maldives<\/strong> media organisations. Only five per cent leadership roles were occupied by women. Paradoxically, the enrolment of women in journalism courses in the Maldives was higher than men at 3:1. This data begs the question: where do these professional women vanish? The answer probably lies in another finding of the study: women face immense discrimination, harassment and bullying at the workplace.<\/p>\nNepali<\/strong> women journalists too faced character assassination, body shaming, speculation about sexual links with prominent men, with women journalists from marginalised communities such as Madhesi and Dalit are more intensive attack. Women journalists fought back, and refused to be silenced, speedily blocking abusers, reporting them and also using aliases to move forward and express themselves online.<\/p>\nPatchy access to information<\/h4>\n
Almost all countries in South Asia sought to tighten controls over access to information, denying journalists a basic tool for accurate reporting. In Afghanistan<\/strong>, despite an Access to Information Law passed in 2014 and amended in 2018, there are barriers to information access. The setting up of an independent Information Access Commission with 65 government-level departments to assist in the transfer of information from government offices to the media, is potentially a step towards easing access. However, implementation remains a question, given other moves that restrict access, for example the 2020 restrictions authorising only governors to share information with the media, thus creating huge bottlenecks. Moreover, with the imminent withdrawal of the US-NATO troops in the coming year, the barriers to accessing information regarding the opaque agencies of security, justice and peace will undoubtedly impact credible reporting at this crucial juncture.<\/p>\nIn Bhutan<\/strong>, access to information is still wrapped up in red-tape and complicated bureaucratic procedure in a hierarchical set up, necessitating permissions to record videos or take a photo. Besides media persons, researchers and scholars in Bhutan are also coming up against the same obstacles. Free speech and expression as well as pursuit of research are thus impeded by official barriers.<\/p>\nDespite the passage of the Right to Information Act in the Maldives<\/strong> six years ago, a culture of secrecy persists and journalists are hard put to access information from certain state agencies. A survey by the Human Rights Commission of Maldives released in December 2020 showed that a majority of people were dissatisfied with access to official information and only 36 percent found the right to information law to have been helpful.<\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, the repercussions of the 2019 amendments to the once robust Right to Information Act could be seen during the pandemic when access to information was vital \u2013 access to data on funds, vaccine roll out and health infrastructure was repeatedly blocked by official agencies and the Central Information Commission did little to enable the flow of critical information.<\/p>\nLikewise, Sri Lanka<\/strong> too witnessed the dilution of its Right to Information Commission, which could affect its independent functioning.<\/p>\nWelcome pushback<\/h4>\n
\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Despite the relentless battles on several fronts, while struggling to stay afloat, South Asian journalists valiantly put up a resistance to the onslaught on media rights in all countries of the region. Challenges in court, mobilising and collective action despite the restrictions in mobility and the overwhelming public health crisis, were evidence of a spirited defiance.<\/p>\nThe attempt to control the digital space by governments in several countries in the region was met with a heartening push back. In Pakistan,<\/strong> independent online journalism platforms together formed the Digital Media Alliance of Pakistan (DigiMAP<\/a>) to challenge and resist the state\u2019s increasing authoritarianism on national dialogues initiated by grassroots communities. DigiMAP represents the emerging bold new ecosystem of independent media start-ups that have taken it upon themselves to champion the cause of public interest journalism that the legacy media has been forced to surrender before an increasingly hostile state. DigiMAP also put out a strong statement<\/a> against the new digital regulations.<\/p>\nDespite the burgeoning digital media in India<\/strong> and its vital role in promoting independent journalism, there was until now no single body representing the digital news media. Eleven digital media organisations came together in October 2020 to launch the DIGIPUB News India Foundation \u201cto represent, amplify and evolve best practices to build a robust digital news ecology that is truly world-class, independent and upholds the highest standards of journalism,\u201d One of its first actions was to challenge the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 in court, as an infringement of freedom of expression.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nBearing Witness<\/h3>\n
South Asia witnessed major political and economic upheaval this past year, even as the region was slowly emerging from the grip of the Covid-19 pandemic. While 23 journalists lost their lives and others were subjected to more than 60 attacks by the police, armed militia, vigilante mobs, politicians, local mafia and others, the broader political events continued to impact the security of journalists and their ability to carry out their professional duties.<\/p>\n
From the takeover of Afghanistan by the Taliban in August 2021, to the massive democratic protests against the Sri Lankan government in April 2022 that led the country into its worst economic crisis since independence in 1948, the media in South Asia has borne witness to some watershed moments in history, taking severe beatings but also standing strong to speak truth to power.<\/p>\n
Afghanistan endured the grimmest of periods, with the hasty withdrawal of NATO troops in the country after two decades of war, accompanied by the inexorable takeover of the country by the Taliban, province by province, leading up to the eventual capitulation of Kabul on August 15, 2021. While targeted killings of journalists in the country declined, routine harassment, intimidation and even torture of independent media have continued unabated. Unsurprisingly, job losses have been dire. At particular risk are those journalists belonging to minority communities and women, who were swiftly restricted or banned from working. Close to 600 journalists have now reportedly fled the country, hoping to build new lives for themselves and continue to tell the stories of their people.<\/p>\n
In December 2021, Bangladesh\u2019s landmark 50 years of independence marking the day that the country\u2019s people achieved liberation, was over-shadowed by the ongoing climate of fear that continues to aggressively curtail freedom of expression nationally.<\/p>\n
Across South Asia, the stifling of free speech overall and the harsh consequences for those who speak out was an overwhelming reality across the region. With the large youthful populations of India, Pakistan and other countries in the region taking to the digital space, government and corporate control over the sphere has emerged as a critical and serious concern for media sustainability.<\/p>\n
In Nepal, parliamentary and provincial elections scheduled for late 2022 are set to determine the government for the next five years and will also shape the future of the legal and regulatory environment for the media. The current trend of media-related laws constricting free speech in Nepal is leading to an environment of self-censorship and one that is being fiercely challenged by Nepal\u2019s defiant and robust media collective.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
The media in South Asia has borne witness to some watershed moments in history, taking severe beatings but also standing strong to speak truth to power.\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”SRI LANKA-POLITICS-ECONOMY-PROTEST” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
As Sri Lanka grapples with its worst economic crisis in memory, demonstrations in Colombo and across the Island have demanded the government\u2019s resignation. Credit: Ishara S. Kodikara \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\nVirtual Control<\/h3>\n
Controlling the online space was a preoccupation of governments across the region.<\/p>\n
Bangladesh saw a stupendous ninefold increase in 2021 over the previous year, in cases filed under its stringent Digital Security Act (DSA) for alleged online criticism of officials, including the prime minister and the country\u2019s founder. In the face of criticism of the DSA and its propensity to criminalise free speech \u2013 an admission made by Bangladesh\u2019s Law Minister himself \u2013 the authorities promised to enact a Data Protection Act. However, the proposed draft contains vague terminology and gives the government arbitrary power to penalise users of the digital space. \u00a0<\/p>\n
Likewise in Sri Lanka, where the parliament in March 2022 passed the Personal Data Protection Bill, concerns have been expressed about the impact of the new law on media reporting and the severe restrictions on the right to information. Critics say the bill could hamper reporting on issues such as corruption, and new provisions on \u2018official secrecy\u2019 could restrict the public\u2019s right to information. The provision empowering the concerned minister to appoint any government institution as the Data Protection Authority (DPA), raises concerns about the autonomy of the institution.<\/p>\n
In Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers were subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice, with ill-defined provisions that allow arbitrary penalties to be slapped on those deemed to have crossed the line.<\/p>\n
In Nepal, bills sitting at the federal and provincial levels and awaiting determination do not bode well for press freedom. The Information Technology Bill, the Nepal Media Council Bill, and the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, are all in the pipeline despite concerns raised by stakeholders about the potential of these proposed laws to criminalise journalism itself.<\/p>\n
In early April, in a win for advocates of free speech and in response to a petition filed by the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), the Islamabad High Court declared the problematic amendment to the Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) null and void.<\/p>\n
The collusion between governments and social media conglomerates was exposed in a series of investigative articles by India-based The Reporters Collective<\/em>\u00a0and\u00a0Ad Watch,\u00a0<\/em>and published by Al Jazeera\u00a0in March 2022. The investigation found that the Facebook advertisement platform \u201csystematically undercut political competition\u201d in India, giving the ruling Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) an \u201cunfair advantage\u201d over other political competitors in the elections. The analysis was based on an examination of 500,000 political advertisements placed on Facebook and Instagram between February 2019 and November 2020 \u2014 during which India\u2019s 2019 General Elections and nine State Assembly elections were held. It also analysed how these unfairly promoted the BJP\u2019s campaigns on the platform.<\/p>\nGovernment propensity to monitor and regulate their citizens was a running theme for the region. India was one of 50 countries where citizens were subjected to surveillance by the spyware Pegasus manufactured by the Israeli group NSO and sold only to governments.<\/p>\n
The data analysed by The Wire<\/em>, part of the international collaboration between French non-profit Forbidden Stories, Amnesty International and 16 media organisations titled \u201cPegasus Project\u201d and released in July 2021, showed that most were targeted between 2018 and 2019, in the run-up to general elections in India. At least 40 Indian journalists are said to be among 300 others targeted, including a Supreme Court judge.<\/p>\nAllegations by the Opposition in Sri Lanka also raised concerns about the use of Pegasus to spy on journalists in the country. Digital security concerns have now become intrinsically part of overall safety and security concerns for journalists in South Asia.<\/p>\n
Misinformation and fake news during the Covid-19 pandemic, which admittedly created public health concerns, was often used as a justification for government control of the media. In Bhutan, the government tightly controlled the media narrative, often in a heavy-handed manner, regulating what and when to report, in the guise of fighting misinformation. On some occasions, the seeming conflict between the right to health and collective rights and press freedom swung in favour of censorship and control.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
In Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers have been subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_324V7C7-Uttar-Pradesh-state-Yogi-Adityanath-after-Bharatiya-Janata-Partys-BJP-win-in-the-state-assembly-elections-SANJAY-KANOJIA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-POLITICS-VOTE” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Supporters of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrate outside the party office in Lucknow on March 10, 2022, on the day of counting of votes for the Uttar Pradesh state assembly elections. Credit: Sanjay Kanojia \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nDealing with hate speech<\/h3>\n
What is clear is that the media in South Asia is going through severe trials and tribulations, battling deep economic crises as well as political polarisation, all of which threaten media freedom and media\u2019s very existence.<\/p>\n
In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that the online spread of hate and misinformation is a profitable business. When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/p>\n
However, in the guise of preventing misinformation, over regulation of content is compromising media freedom. India\u2019s Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, are an example of that overreach. Unfettered powers and misuse by the government were displayed in the blacking out of channels for alleged \u201csecurity\u201d reasons.\u00a0<\/p>\n
Similar overreach is also feared in Pakistan with the introduction in November 2021 of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act, with the purported aim of providing a defence mechanism for journalists. The controversial Section 6 prohibits journalists from \u201cspreading false information\u201d, and producing material that \u201cadvocates hatred\u201d, or constitutes \u201cincitement to discrimination, hostility or violence\u201d. Such vague definitions have the precise potential for the government to excessively regulate online content.<\/p>\n
In the Maldives, new hate speech provisions were added in November 2021 to the penal code to criminalise accusations of apostasy, unless a person explicitly renounces Islam. A section that prohibits \u201ccriticism of Islam in a public medium with the intention of causing disregard\u201d was amended to also criminalise publicly insulting or disparaging the Quran, God or Prophet Mohamed. The new provision adds to the 2008 Maldives constitution that outlaws speech that is “contrary to any tenet of Islam\u201d.<\/p>\n
The country maintains reservations to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights’ Article 18 on freedom of thought, conscience and religion, while the Communications Authority of Maldives regularly blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Compounded with that, the ongoing fear and threat of attacks by vigilante groups is continuing to encourage self-censorship on digital platforms.<\/p>\n
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When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_220324-Danish-Siddiqui.jpg” title_text=”Memorial for Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(0,0,0,0)” min_height=”529px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Candles are placed by colleagues next to a portrait of Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui, who was killed in the crossfire while covering a fierce battle between Afghan security forces and Taliban militants on July 16, 2021. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nStruggle for survival<\/h3>\n
For the media in South Asia, the year was not only one of maintaining high standards of journalistic content, but also one where the sheer struggle to survive was paramount.<\/p>\n
The media in Afghanistan was all but decimated, with more than 300 media outlets shut down, and unable to continue operations due to severe economic unviability and the collapse of much-needed foreign funds after the Taliban claimed control.<\/p>\n
Even in relatively peaceful Bhutan, the media has barely managed to survive. Repeated lockdowns during the pandemic brought to the fore the media\u2019s over reliance on government advertising which continued to decline due to the overall sluggish economy. Austerity measures adopted by most media houses included cutting down on staff and field reporting. They were forced to rely on government hand-outs, a move that directly impacted media freedom. Many senior and trained professionals left the industry and many newsrooms dwindled to just an editor and two or three reporters.<\/p>\n
The lasting effects of the pandemic were seen in the media industry in India where the economic downturn led to loss of advertising revue. Over-dependence on government advertisements was linked to self-censorship and patterning news content to suit the ruling dispensation. The crisis has seen a shift in the revenue models from advertisement-led to paid content, with more and more legacy media instituting paywalls and subscription-driven models.<\/p>\n
The Nepali media too staggered. Under the weight of the economic crisis, journalists\u2019 job security was one of the focus areas of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), which negotiated with media houses, staged protests and used the courts to assert labour rights, with some success.<\/p>\n
Interestingly, the pandemic years saw the growth of niche digital news outlets producing special focus stories and highlighting issues and regions forgotten by the mainstream media. Clearly, the message for media\u2019s sustainability is that readers need to pay for independent news and reportage that accurately reflects ground realities in all their complexity. The newer digital platforms also appear to be building newsrooms that are diverse and inclusive, representing marginalised sections beyond mere tokensim.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_210914-Journalists-participated-a-sit-in-demonstration-to-protest-against-the-PMDA-bill-.-Photo-Credit-RIUJ-e1650512739116.jpg” title_text=”OVER_210914 Journalists participated a ‘sit in’ demonstration to protest against the PMDA bill . Photo Credit RIUJ” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Pakistani journalists participate in a \u2018sit in\u2019 demonstration from September 12-13, 2021, in protest against the proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) bill, which aimed to establish a sole authority to regulate all film, electronic, print and digital media. Credit: RIUJ<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nAway from home<\/h3>\n
The year 2021 was particularly difficult for journalists in Afghanistan and parts of India such as Jammu and Kashmir. Many reporters were silenced due to pressure from the authorities while to many others were forced to leave their homes and even countries due to security reasons.<\/p>\n
The starkest example was that of Afghan journalists, many who were forced to flee their \u00a0homes and families overnight. The unplanned and sudden exodus saw many journalists living for months in camps in third countries, uncertain about their futures. Some in their new homes, while adjusting to new cultures and languages, are still awaiting work-permits and outlets for their journalistic output. Several Afghan women journalists, who left after being targeted by the Taliban, hope to continue to raise issues for Afghan women.<\/p>\n
The repression in Jammu and Kashmir over the past year led several Kashmiri journalists to leave the state. Intimidation, harassment and implication in fake cases has become almost routine, hampering the media from doing its job. The arrest of some of the more vocal journalists sent a chilling message to the media community, which has a tough choice between self-censorship and jail.<\/p>\n
The political crisis in Myanmar had a spill over effect in neighbouring India, which has long been home to exiled Burmese journalists. In April 2021, three journalists who worked with Mizzima, a multimedia news organisation who had taken refuge in the bordering Indian state of Manipur were in danger of being sent back to Myanmar where they would face a jail term or worse. In a show of solidarity, the All Manipur Working Journalists\u2019 Union (AMWJU) took up advocacy on behalf of the journalists to allow them to remain. An Indian court later granted them sanctuary.<\/span><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-AFGHANISTAN-CONFLICT-PROTEST” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Afghans residing in India protest the Taliban\u2019s military takeover of Afghanistan outside the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) office in New Delhi on August 23, 2021. Across South Asia, displays of international solidarity marked a collective denigration of Afghanistan\u2019s new regime. Credit: Sajjad HUSSAIN \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nHope from the judiciary<\/h3>\n
With governments in the region trampling upon citizens\u2019 rights, the judiciary in many countries stepped in to uphold constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of speech and expression and freedom of the press.<\/p>\n
In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government. In petitions challenging the government\u2019s illegal surveillance, in the wake of the Pegasus investigation in July 2021, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India, NV Ramana said, \u201callegations are serious if the reports are correct\u2026The truth has to come out\u201d.<\/p>\n
In Pakistan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in a landmark ruling in April 2022, struck down criminal defamation in the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act, a decisive order in favour of press freedom. The IHC by converting letters by the PFUJ regarding illegal terminations, irregular salaries and safety issues into petitions, is another positive move towards journalists\u2019 rights.<\/p>\n
In some cases, lower courts pushing for rule of law also came as a welcome step. A local court directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan to ensure filing of investigation reports in court regarding 1,200 pending inquiries relating to online harassment, identity theft, pornography and other offences registered in Karachi.<\/p>\n
In the Maldives, on January 19, 2022, a criminal court found two men guilty of murdering blogger Yameen Rasheed in 2017 and sentenced them to life imprisonment. The police said that the group of radicalised young men\u00a0believed\u00a0that Yameen deserved to be killed for \u201cinsulting Islam\u201d. Although the trial was bumpy, witnesses were intimidated and the authorities\u2019 professionalism was called into question, that an indictment of the perpetrators was reached is a step forward.<\/p>\n
Likewise, the April 13, 2022, verdict of a Dhaka court sentencing to death four of those accused of murdering eminent secular writer Professor Humayun Azad in 2004 provides a hope that the wheels of justice are turning, albeit very slowly.<\/p>\n
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In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9AP846-Nepalese-Students-Union-carry-effigy-of-President-Bidhya-Devi-Bhandari-and-PM-Sharma-Oli-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP-e1650512087636.jpg” title_text=”NEPAL-POLITICS-PROTEST2″ force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
Members of the Nepalese Students Union carry an effigy of President Bidhya Devi Bhandri and Prime Minister Sharma Oli on May 25, 2021, after Nepal’s parliament was dissolved for the second time in just five months. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nUN Special Rapporteurs speak<\/h3>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern. Highlighting the harassment of journalists in Jammu and Kashmir, the UN Special Rapporteur on promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan, and Elina Steinert, the vice-chair of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention in June 3, 2021, urged, \u201call necessary interim measures be taken to halt the alleged violations and prevent their re-occurrence and in the event that the investigations support or suggest the allegations to be correct, to ensure the accountability of any person(s) responsible for the alleged violations,\u201d The report cited examples of\u00a0jailed journalists and the use of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and other counter-terror laws on journalists.<\/p>\n
In March 2022, \u00a0UN human rights experts including from the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances<\/a><\/span>, Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions<\/a><\/span>; Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders<\/a><\/span> and the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression<\/a><\/span> called upon Bangladesh to \u201cimmediately cease reprisals against human rights defenders and relatives of forcibly disappeared persons for their activism and co-operation with international human rights bodies and UN mechanisms.\u201d This statement was issued following the threats and intimidation of civil society and human rights defender after the announcement of sanctions imposed by the United States of America against top Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) officials on December 10, 2021.<\/p>\n<\/span><\/p>\nRight to information<\/h3>\n
Access to information has always been a thorny issue in the region, with most governments refusing to be transparent or accountable. The arrest of Bangladeshi journalist Rozina Islam in April 2021 under the Official Secrets Actis was a stark example of how a journalist seeking to investigate suspected corruption into the country\u2019s health ministry was not only denied access to information but was also penalised for it.<\/p>\n
Even in the Maldives, where its Right to Information Act ranks 16th out of 128 RTI laws in the world, things are not smooth: the country\u2019s third Information Commissioner took up his post in September 2021, nearly seven months after the former commissioner resigned.<\/span><\/p>\nIn Pakistan, a <\/span>February 2022, amendment to the cybercrimes law, PECA also threatened the right to information. But a progressive ruling by the Islamabad High Court declared the entire ordinance unconstitutional, thus protecting the Right to Information guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan.<\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern.<\/span><\/h2>\n[\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9XE9MK-mural-to-spread-awareness-on-Covid-19-in-Mumbai-on-January-29-2022-Punit-PARANJPE-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-HEALTH-VIRUS” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
India\u2019s intense struggle with Covid-19 is evident as pedestrians pass a mural depicting Mexican painter Frida Kahlo wearing a facemask in Mumbai on January 29, 2022. Credit: Punit Paranjpe \/ AFP<\/p>\n
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<\/h1>\nGender inequity<\/h3>\n
The sharp decline in gender equity was nowhere starker than in Afghanistan, where women journalists were denied their right to work and be active in the public sphere. The forced retreat has undone two decades of work in enhancing gender equity in the Afghan media.<\/p>\n
The November 2021 regulation issued by the Taliban government with 11 \u2018rules\u2019, urging the media to refrain from broadcasting TV programs and dramas which featured women meant that women have almost disappeared from public view, except in roles and attire approved by the Taliban. Women journalists, like all professional Afghan women, were prohibited from driving alone, their mobility tied to the presence of a male family member.<\/p>\n
Meanwhile outspoken women journalists in Pakistan faced intense online harassment, including being trolled by even senior government officials who joined the online intimidation and bullying.<\/p>\n
In India, the battle to push women out of the online space was unrelenting. Vicious online abuse, trolling, death and rape threats were particularly severe for Dalit and Muslim women who were regularly silenced and abused. In July 2021, an online \u2018auction\u2019 of prominent Muslim women, including journalists called \u2018Sulli deals\u2019 and once more in early 2022 called \u2018Bulli Bai\u2019 (\u2018Sulli\u2019 and \u2018Bulli\u2019 are derogatory slang for Muslim women) was launched. The Internet Freedom Foundation called the fake online auction of almost 100 Muslim women a \u201cblatant violation of their data security and privacy rights.\u201d These online apps on the GitHub platform, profiling Muslim women activists, journalists, analysts, artists and researchers were taken down after vigorous protests.<\/p>\n
The good news is that for every violation of women journalists\u2019 rights, there has been an equally strong resistance.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9PW2H6-Bangladeshi-Hindus-stage-a-demonstration-in-Dhaka-in-October-2021-Munir-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg” title_text=”BANGLADESH-RELIGION-HINDUISM-PROTEST” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n
Bangladeshi Hindus stage a demonstration in Dhaka on October 18, 2021 to protest against the fresh religious violence against Hindus in the country. Credit: Munir Uz Zaman \/ AFP<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”4px||9px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” custom_margin=”1px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n
<\/h1>\n<\/h3>\nWay forward<\/h3>\n
The bleak post-pandemic year has held many lessons for the media in the region. The first is that of sustainability and survival, and the need to diversify and remain relevant. Simultaneously it is also about lobbying for journalists\u2019 rights \u2013 on the streets, in boardrooms and in courts.<\/p>\n
The other is the importance of solidarity and leveraging networks to support media colleagues both within and across borders. The need to speak out and act has never been as important at a time when hyper nationalism is making states fold in unto themselves. In the case of Afghan journalists, for example, there is a need for intervention on several fronts \u2013 from financial assistance to capacity building and supporting those in exile. The international media community must continue to train the spotlight on the crisis of the media in Afghanistan and extend long term support and solidarity.<\/p>\n
The focus must also remain on Sri Lanka, where the economic crisis is likely to be long drawn out, and media freedoms likely to be compromised as the state attempts to repair the damage. International solidarity at such a time is crucial.<\/p>\n
[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]<\/p>\n
Click here to download pdf of Overview and Special Reports<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Feature Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#e5e5e5″ module_alignment=”center” min_height=”238px” height=”331px” max_height=”486px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|-3px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” top_divider_style=”arrow2″ top_divider_color=”#FFFFFF”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ admin_label=”Stats” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ width=”77.3%” custom_padding=”115px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Media Rights Violations” number=”210″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#999999″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Jailed or Detained” number=”60″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#E09900″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Killings” number=”23″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#FF0000″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
[et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=”Fullwidth Slider” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”50px” header_letter_spacing=”0px” background_image=”http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg” background_position=”center” module_alignment=”center” min_height=”427px” custom_padding=”357px||395px|||” animation_style=”fade” auto=”on”][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”] THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.48)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"\n
[et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" fullwidth=\"on\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\"][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=\"Fullwidth Slider\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"50px\" header_letter_spacing=\"7px\" background_image=\"http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg\" background_position=\"center\" module_alignment=\"center\" min_height=\"590px\" animation_style=\"fade\" auto=\"on\"][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_93J7LL-Dissolution-of-parliament-Nepal-protest-Prakash-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_92U7LM-Mock-funeral-for-sexual-assaults-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_94J2MF-Tashnuva-Anan-Shishir-Bangladesh-transgender-news-host-Munir-Uz-zaman-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/BANG_000_93Z8WT-Bangladesh-protest-Mushtaq-Ahmed-Munir-death-in-custody-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Maldives\/A-Covid-19-press-briefing-by-President-Solih-on-June-23-Credit-President_s-Office-2-scaled.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/AFG000_94J2MK-International-womens-day-Afghanistan-WAKIL-KOHSAR-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/LAW_000_8Z94D9-Afghan-President-Ashraf-Ghani-arrives-in-Herat-January-2021-HOSHANG-HASHIMI-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" min_height=\"1286.7px\" custom_margin=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" min_height=\"131px\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"57px|||||\" border_style_all=\"none\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" min_height=\"65px\" border_width_bottom=\"5px\" border_style_bottom=\"solid\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]Overview<\/strong><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_4\" admin_label=\"quote\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" animation_style=\"fade\"][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"3px|||||\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" width=\"97.3%\" min_height=\"1217px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]<\/h1>\nPandemic, the Press and the New Digital Order<\/h3>\n
As the second wave of the Covid pandemic surged across South Asia in early 2021, journalists found themselves in the thick of the storm, without a safety net and scant institutional support. Battling not only the deadly virus, they mounted stiff resistance to states trying to control the narrative and plaster over the horrific reality. Journalists breaking stories of rising deaths, collapsing health systems and unpreparedness and mismanagement at the highest levels of government were silenced, hounded, arrested and penalised.<\/p>\n
Even as journalists also mourned the loss of their colleagues and family members, they continued to work in the most challenging circumstances to publicise the truth. They reported from the frontlines without adequate protective equipment, exposing themselves to infection to tell stories of the suffering in hospitals, in graveyards and crematoria. Many fell ill, many others continue to suffer from the long-term impacts of the Covid syndrome. Hundreds of others succumbed, unsung heroic storytellers of the apocalypse that engulfed them.<\/p>\n
To many others continued to tell one of the biggest stories of our times, while also enduring salary cuts and delays in wage payments, denial of protective personal equipment, medical insurance or reimbursement of massive medical bills to treat Covid contracted in the line of duty. Huge numbers of media workers were also rendered jobless or forced to resign in the wake of economic impacts of Covid-19. reeling under arrests and cases of sedition and terror, unrelenting trolling and abuse online, they wrote on. Some wrote on, even without a job or payment.<\/p>\n
Charges of \u201canti-national\u201d, \u201cagainst national security\u201d were widely used to curb dissent through archaic laws of sedition and colonial era laws of epidemic control. With courts admitting petitions challenging the constitutionality of some of these laws, there is reason to hope for change.<\/p>\n
The raging pandemic, accompanying lockdowns and economic crises were only piled on to existing barriers that the region\u2019s journalists already faced. Physical attacks and intimidation, lack of access to information, control and censorship; sharpened ethnic and religious cleavages; legal repercussions for their stories and an overall precarity of the media. Impunity for crimes against journalists continued, despite small gains. Yet, journalists bore witness and told the stories that needed to be told, with professional integrity, compassion and deep humanity.<\/p>\n
Regional trends<\/h3>\nTightening regulation and digital controls<\/h4>\n
Controlling the flow of information seemed to be an overriding preoccupation of governments across the region. From reigning in the burgeoning independent digital media and clamping down on critical voices on social media, governments and social media platforms fell short of upholding freedom of expression at a critical juncture.<\/p>\n
At a time when the free flow of information was literally a matter of life and death, governments intolerant of critical questions, tended to use the pandemic as a pretext to curb information, and any opinion that was deemed \u201canti-government\u201d. Social media presented a particular anxiety for governments trying to curb dissent, and unfortunately, social media giants did not adequately protect citizen\u2019s right to free speech, instead complying with unreasonable takedown notices from governments.<\/p>\n
Pakistan<\/strong> suffered under the harshest clampdown on dissent by any government. Media rights and freedom of expression took a severe beating, with the government seemingly leaping at the opportunity to deprive the media of both freedom and funds, driving an already beleaguered media industry into deeper crisis.\u00a0 The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) which criminalises free speech and gives overarching powers to law enforcement authorities, was overused in Pakistan to clamp down on free speech. The media, political opponents, activists and members of the public found the boundaries of free speech indiscriminately scrunched in violation of constitutional guarantees.<\/p>\nArbitrary blocking of independent websites, internet and communication shutdowns were regularly deployed to censor the media. This inevitably led to the proliferation of misinformation \u2013 which Pakistan could ill-afford in the midst of not only the pandemic, but civil strife and political upheaval.\u00a0 Cutting off connectivity in politically sensitive areas in an attempt to censor news had other adverse effects during the lockdown, mainly on health and education.<\/p>\n
In Bangladesh<\/strong>, it took the tragic custodial death in February 2021, of writer Mushtaq Ahmed incarcerated for ten months and repeatedly denied bail, to once more shine the spotlight on the draconian Digital Security Act (DSA) which has been widely used against journalists, bloggers and citizens to penalise free speech and critical opinion. The lone Cyber Crimes Tribunal, reeling under a staggering pending case load can barely manage due process in hearing cases, leave aside render justice.<\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, besides the time-honoured tactic of internet shutdowns to cut communications, the newly promulgated Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 gave the government the power to censor, order takedowns and block content without any recourse to appeal. Independent digital platforms termed the rules not just unconstitutional, but a blow to democracy itself, and have challenged this attempt at over-regulation in the highest court in the country. In addition to its attempt to control independent digital media, fast emerging as major players in the media landscape, the Indian government came down strongly on social media expression deemed to be critical of the government\u2019s handling of the pandemic. In the same vein, the new media Policy in Jammu and Kashmir (downgraded from state to centrally administered union territory in April 2019), issued in June 2020, was immediately viewed with disquiet by journalists, given that it empowers government officers to take action on \u201cfake news\u201d or \u201canti-national content\u201d.<\/p>\nAllegations of misinformation and rumour mongering were thrown at journalists and even citizens exposing the horrific ground reality of acute shortage of medical supplies, oxygen, overflowing hospitals and crematoria. Significantly, while content critical of the government was taken down, virulent hate speech against minorities and misogynist speech online thrived in India. Social media platforms Twitter and Facebook too succumbed to takedown requests by the government, failing to stand up for free speech.<\/p>\n
Across the region, governments displayed a remarkable disrespect towards the media, and took steps to increase regulation. In Nepal<\/strong>, the government moved ahead with tougher bills and regulations such as the Media Council Bill, the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, the Information Technology Bill, and the Special Service Bill \u2013 all of which have clauses that could undermine press freedom. The clampdown on social media has been proposed on pretexts of the \u201ccountry\u2019s sovereignty, security, unity or harmony\u201d. The Media Council Bill could erode the autonomy of the media, with government-appointed regulators, a provision that has been vehemently opposed by media rights organisations.<\/p>\nThe international norm of self-regulation by media was also violated in Sri Lanka<\/strong>, where in January 2021, the Cabinet of Ministers proposed to amend the Press Council Law to include electronic and new media and approved a proposal to \u2018structurally reform and reorganise\u2019 the Press Council to cover electronic and new media. The move was criticised by the Professional Web Journalists' Association which argued that the electronic and new media should be not controlled, but self-regulated with a stringent code of ethics developed by the media community itself.<\/p>\nLivelihood in peril<\/h4>\n
The pandemic year was also witness to dramatic loss of jobs in the media, across the region. Over 8,000 of Pakistan\u2019s<\/strong> estimated 20,000 journalists <\/span>lost their jobs in 2020<\/a> alone, and rural and district staff were more likely to be retrenched.<\/span><\/p>\nJournalists, mainly through the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), remained up in arms for most of the year and in early 2021 launched an \u201cenough is enough\u201d campaign across the country to protest job losses, pay cuts, censorship and rising intimidation. The media industry found new external supporters, including the legal community and civil society in institutional and organised partnerships with PFUJ to jointly resist the rising attacks on media freedoms, journalists\u2019 rights and public interest journalism in Pakistan.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, which saw a series of retrenchments from March 2020 onwards, there are no clear numbers of the job losses or salary cuts. <\/span>Estimates<\/a> put the figures in the thousands. Besides layoffs, salary cuts and delays in payments, media houses also threatened to sack staff if they wanted to work from home. The obstinacy of many managements led to staff in some media houses getting infected with the coronavirus en masse. Journalists from the regional press were harder hit, with fewer paying options than their English media counterparts. <\/span><\/p>\n\u00a0<\/span>The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) took up more than 500 complaints relating to job loss and non-payment of salary in Nepal<\/strong>. A survey conducted by the <\/span>FNJ in September 2020, revealed the desperate state of Nepal\u2019s journalists: the earning of 40 percent of journalists was affected by the pandemic and the nationwide lockdowns and women journalists were more severely impacted. Several media houses in Kathmandu suspended publications, cut down broadcast hours and decreased the size of the newspapers. The revenue of 75 percent of the once vibrant radio sector decreased due to the pandemic.<\/p>\nThe story was no different in Bangladesh<\/strong> where an estimated 1,250 journalists lost their jobs and several thousand faced salary cuts or irregular payments. While media owners blamed the pandemic for the drop in revenue and resultant salary cuts, trade unionists say that irregular payments were a norm of a section of media houses which then grasped at the pandemic as a justification to deny journalists their rights.<\/p>\nThe pandemic crisis however, only added to existing pressures that journalists across the region face. A major threat being the increasing polarisation on communal lines.<\/span><\/p>\nRising Extremism<\/h4>\n
South Asia has ravaged by religious, ethnic and caste divides for decades, but the growing cleavages of the last few years have been unprecedented. With hyper-nationalist parties in power in many countries in the region drawing votes and support from religiously aligned groups, the polity too has been sharply divided. Minorities in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have been particularly vulnerable, in this context of majoritarian politics. These divisions have inevitably affected the media. While some sections have added to the problem by exacerbating divisions and amplifying hate, others have had to struggle to remain independent.<\/p>\n
Existing fault lines were exacerbated by external situations that are likely to impact the whole region. The proposed withdrawal of US-NATO troops from Afghanistan by the coming September is feared to increase the Taliban's influence in Afghanistan<\/strong>, a development that could have a ripple effect in the region in terms of encouraging radicalism. Hard worn democratic and secular gains could be pushed back, with a direct impact on the media and individual journalists. Likewise, growing communalism in India<\/strong>, encouraged by the government in power, has a dangerous spill over effect in the neighbourhood, contributing to more polarisation and the strengthening of extremist groups. The media cannot be immune from attack, even as it attempts to uphold constitutional values, and the rights of women, minorities and the marginalised.<\/p>\nReligion in the Maldives<\/strong> is a no-go topic in public discourse, and the fear of being labelled anti-Islam contributes to the journalists practicing self-censorship of forgoing bylines while reporting on extremism in the country. As part of official control, the Communications Authority of Maldives blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Though social media use is growing, intimidation and deaths threats pose the greatest challenge for free expression online. The yet unsolved murders of journalist Ahmed Rilwan and blogger Yameen Rashid known for their vocal criticism of religious fundamentalism are grim reminders of the risks of speaking out for religious freedom or minority rights. In its World Report 2021, Human Rights Watch accused the government of failing to confront the influence of hard-line Islamist groups. \u201cOnline intimidation of human rights groups continued to have a chilling effect on civil society in 2020,\u201d and reiterated calls to tackle hate speech and violence online.<\/p>\nThe state response to tackling religious extremism however, often has serious implications for freedom of expression and civil rights. In Sri<\/strong> Lanka<\/strong>, the Prevention of Terrorism (De-radicalisation from Holding Violent Extremist Religious Ideology) Regulations were issued in march 2021, expanding on the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). Powers given to authorities to detain and \u2018rehabilitate\u2019 anyone who \u2018by words either spoken or intended to be read or by signs or by visible representations\u2019 causes the commission of violence or \u2018religious, racial or communal disharmony or feelings of ill will or hostility between different communities or racial or religious groups\u2019 is prone to misuse, fear activists. The spate of arrests in cases of hate speech, mostly of Tamil and Muslim minorities further reinforces this apprehension of selective use of power by law enforcement agencies.<\/p>\nWomen journalists in the firing line<\/h4>\n
The rampant vitriol and violence online were particularly targeted at women journalists in the region. Pakistani<\/strong> women journalists had a rough year, facing unrelenting abuse by organised troll armies, many backed by members of the ruling party, prompting them to release a petition taking the government to account. Similar was the case across the border in India<\/strong>, where online abuse took a heavy toll in an already stressful year of the pandemic. Sexist abuse, misogyny and spillover of online to offline stalking and violence became the price that women journalists paid for speaking out.<\/span><\/p>\nThe marginalised existence of women journalists in South Asia\u2019s media community is itself one of the factors contributing to precarity. A report released in early 2020 by the South Asia Women\u2019s Network, showed that women accounted for only 29 per cent of staff in Maldives<\/strong> media organisations. Only five per cent leadership roles were occupied by women. Paradoxically, the enrolment of women in journalism courses in the Maldives was higher than men at 3:1. This data begs the question: where do these professional women vanish? The answer probably lies in another finding of the study: women face immense discrimination, harassment and bullying at the workplace.<\/p>\nNepali<\/strong> women journalists too faced character assassination, body shaming, speculation about sexual links with prominent men, with women journalists from marginalised communities such as Madhesi and Dalit are more intensive attack. Women journalists fought back, and refused to be silenced, speedily blocking abusers, reporting them and also using aliases to move forward and express themselves online.<\/p>\nPatchy access to information<\/h4>\n
Almost all countries in South Asia sought to tighten controls over access to information, denying journalists a basic tool for accurate reporting. In Afghanistan<\/strong>, despite an Access to Information Law passed in 2014 and amended in 2018, there are barriers to information access. The setting up of an independent Information Access Commission with 65 government-level departments to assist in the transfer of information from government offices to the media, is potentially a step towards easing access. However, implementation remains a question, given other moves that restrict access, for example the 2020 restrictions authorising only governors to share information with the media, thus creating huge bottlenecks. Moreover, with the imminent withdrawal of the US-NATO troops in the coming year, the barriers to accessing information regarding the opaque agencies of security, justice and peace will undoubtedly impact credible reporting at this crucial juncture.<\/p>\nIn Bhutan<\/strong>, access to information is still wrapped up in red-tape and complicated bureaucratic procedure in a hierarchical set up, necessitating permissions to record videos or take a photo. Besides media persons, researchers and scholars in Bhutan are also coming up against the same obstacles. Free speech and expression as well as pursuit of research are thus impeded by official barriers.<\/p>\nDespite the passage of the Right to Information Act in the Maldives<\/strong> six years ago, a culture of secrecy persists and journalists are hard put to access information from certain state agencies. A survey by the Human Rights Commission of Maldives released in December 2020 showed that a majority of people were dissatisfied with access to official information and only 36 percent found the right to information law to have been helpful.<\/p>\nIn India<\/strong>, the repercussions of the 2019 amendments to the once robust Right to Information Act could be seen during the pandemic when access to information was vital \u2013 access to data on funds, vaccine roll out and health infrastructure was repeatedly blocked by official agencies and the Central Information Commission did little to enable the flow of critical information.<\/p>\nLikewise, Sri Lanka<\/strong> too witnessed the dilution of its Right to Information Commission, which could affect its independent functioning.<\/p>\nWelcome pushback<\/h4>\n
\u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Despite the relentless battles on several fronts, while struggling to stay afloat, South Asian journalists valiantly put up a resistance to the onslaught on media rights in all countries of the region. Challenges in court, mobilising and collective action despite the restrictions in mobility and the overwhelming public health crisis, were evidence of a spirited defiance.<\/p>\nThe attempt to control the digital space by governments in several countries in the region was met with a heartening push back. In Pakistan,<\/strong> independent online journalism platforms together formed the Digital Media Alliance of Pakistan (DigiMAP<\/a>) to challenge and resist the state\u2019s increasing authoritarianism on national dialogues initiated by grassroots communities. DigiMAP represents the emerging bold new ecosystem of independent media start-ups that have taken it upon themselves to champion the cause of public interest journalism that the legacy media has been forced to surrender before an increasingly hostile state. DigiMAP also put out a strong statement<\/a> against the new digital regulations.<\/p>\nDespite the burgeoning digital media in India<\/strong> and its vital role in promoting independent journalism, there was until now no single body representing the digital news media. Eleven digital media organisations came together in October 2020 to launch the DIGIPUB News India Foundation \u201cto represent, amplify and evolve best practices to build a robust digital news ecology that is truly world-class, independent and upholds the highest standards of journalism,\u201d One of its first actions was to challenge the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 in court, as an infringement of freedom of expression.<\/p>\n
Virtual Control<\/h3>\n
Government propensity to monitor and regulate their citizens was a running theme for the region. India was one of 50 countries where citizens were subjected to surveillance by the spyware Pegasus manufactured by the Israeli group NSO and sold only to governments.<\/p>\n
The data analysed by The Wire<\/em>, part of the international collaboration between French non-profit Forbidden Stories, Amnesty International and 16 media organisations titled \u201cPegasus Project\u201d and released in July 2021, showed that most were targeted between 2018 and 2019, in the run-up to general elections in India. At least 40 Indian journalists are said to be among 300 others targeted, including a Supreme Court judge.<\/p>\n Allegations by the Opposition in Sri Lanka also raised concerns about the use of Pegasus to spy on journalists in the country. Digital security concerns have now become intrinsically part of overall safety and security concerns for journalists in South Asia.<\/p>\n Misinformation and fake news during the Covid-19 pandemic, which admittedly created public health concerns, was often used as a justification for government control of the media. In Bhutan, the government tightly controlled the media narrative, often in a heavy-handed manner, regulating what and when to report, in the guise of fighting misinformation. On some occasions, the seeming conflict between the right to health and collective rights and press freedom swung in favour of censorship and control.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_324V7C7-Uttar-Pradesh-state-Yogi-Adityanath-after-Bharatiya-Janata-Partys-BJP-win-in-the-state-assembly-elections-SANJAY-KANOJIA-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-POLITICS-VOTE” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Supporters of India’s Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP) celebrate outside the party office in Lucknow on March 10, 2022, on the day of counting of votes for the Uttar Pradesh state assembly elections. Credit: Sanjay Kanojia \/ AFP<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n What is clear is that the media in South Asia is going through severe trials and tribulations, battling deep economic crises as well as political polarisation, all of which threaten media freedom and media\u2019s very existence.<\/p>\n In recent years, it has become increasingly clear that the online spread of hate and misinformation is a profitable business. When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/p>\n However, in the guise of preventing misinformation, over regulation of content is compromising media freedom. India\u2019s Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code Rules, 2021, are an example of that overreach. Unfettered powers and misuse by the government were displayed in the blacking out of channels for alleged \u201csecurity\u201d reasons.\u00a0<\/p>\n Similar overreach is also feared in Pakistan with the introduction in November 2021 of the Protection of Journalists and Media Professionals Act, with the purported aim of providing a defence mechanism for journalists. The controversial Section 6 prohibits journalists from \u201cspreading false information\u201d, and producing material that \u201cadvocates hatred\u201d, or constitutes \u201cincitement to discrimination, hostility or violence\u201d. Such vague definitions have the precise potential for the government to excessively regulate online content.<\/p>\n In the Maldives, new hate speech provisions were added in November 2021 to the penal code to criminalise accusations of apostasy, unless a person explicitly renounces Islam. A section that prohibits \u201ccriticism of Islam in a public medium with the intention of causing disregard\u201d was amended to also criminalise publicly insulting or disparaging the Quran, God or Prophet Mohamed. The new provision adds to the 2008 Maldives constitution that outlaws speech that is “contrary to any tenet of Islam\u201d.<\/p>\n The country maintains reservations to the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights’ Article 18 on freedom of thought, conscience and religion, while the Communications Authority of Maldives regularly blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Compounded with that, the ongoing fear and threat of attacks by vigilante groups is continuing to encourage self-censorship on digital platforms.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_220324-Danish-Siddiqui.jpg” title_text=”Memorial for Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” background_color=”RGBA(0,0,0,0)” min_height=”529px”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Candles are placed by colleagues next to a portrait of Reuters journalist Danish Siddiqui, who was killed in the crossfire while covering a fierce battle between Afghan security forces and Taliban militants on July 16, 2021. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n For the media in South Asia, the year was not only one of maintaining high standards of journalistic content, but also one where the sheer struggle to survive was paramount.<\/p>\n The media in Afghanistan was all but decimated, with more than 300 media outlets shut down, and unable to continue operations due to severe economic unviability and the collapse of much-needed foreign funds after the Taliban claimed control.<\/p>\n Even in relatively peaceful Bhutan, the media has barely managed to survive. Repeated lockdowns during the pandemic brought to the fore the media\u2019s over reliance on government advertising which continued to decline due to the overall sluggish economy. Austerity measures adopted by most media houses included cutting down on staff and field reporting. They were forced to rely on government hand-outs, a move that directly impacted media freedom. Many senior and trained professionals left the industry and many newsrooms dwindled to just an editor and two or three reporters.<\/p>\n The lasting effects of the pandemic were seen in the media industry in India where the economic downturn led to loss of advertising revue. Over-dependence on government advertisements was linked to self-censorship and patterning news content to suit the ruling dispensation. The crisis has seen a shift in the revenue models from advertisement-led to paid content, with more and more legacy media instituting paywalls and subscription-driven models.<\/p>\n The Nepali media too staggered. Under the weight of the economic crisis, journalists\u2019 job security was one of the focus areas of the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ), which negotiated with media houses, staged protests and used the courts to assert labour rights, with some success.<\/p>\n Interestingly, the pandemic years saw the growth of niche digital news outlets producing special focus stories and highlighting issues and regions forgotten by the mainstream media. Clearly, the message for media\u2019s sustainability is that readers need to pay for independent news and reportage that accurately reflects ground realities in all their complexity. The newer digital platforms also appear to be building newsrooms that are diverse and inclusive, representing marginalised sections beyond mere tokensim.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_210914-Journalists-participated-a-sit-in-demonstration-to-protest-against-the-PMDA-bill-.-Photo-Credit-RIUJ-e1650512739116.jpg” title_text=”OVER_210914 Journalists participated a ‘sit in’ demonstration to protest against the PMDA bill . Photo Credit RIUJ” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Pakistani journalists participate in a \u2018sit in\u2019 demonstration from September 12-13, 2021, in protest against the proposed Pakistan Media Development Authority (PMDA) bill, which aimed to establish a sole authority to regulate all film, electronic, print and digital media. Credit: RIUJ<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”7px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The year 2021 was particularly difficult for journalists in Afghanistan and parts of India such as Jammu and Kashmir. Many reporters were silenced due to pressure from the authorities while to many others were forced to leave their homes and even countries due to security reasons.<\/p>\n The starkest example was that of Afghan journalists, many who were forced to flee their \u00a0homes and families overnight. The unplanned and sudden exodus saw many journalists living for months in camps in third countries, uncertain about their futures. Some in their new homes, while adjusting to new cultures and languages, are still awaiting work-permits and outlets for their journalistic output. Several Afghan women journalists, who left after being targeted by the Taliban, hope to continue to raise issues for Afghan women.<\/p>\n The repression in Jammu and Kashmir over the past year led several Kashmiri journalists to leave the state. Intimidation, harassment and implication in fake cases has become almost routine, hampering the media from doing its job. The arrest of some of the more vocal journalists sent a chilling message to the media community, which has a tough choice between self-censorship and jail.<\/p>\n The political crisis in Myanmar had a spill over effect in neighbouring India, which has long been home to exiled Burmese journalists. In April 2021, three journalists who worked with Mizzima, a multimedia news organisation who had taken refuge in the bordering Indian state of Manipur were in danger of being sent back to Myanmar where they would face a jail term or worse. In a show of solidarity, the All Manipur Working Journalists\u2019 Union (AMWJU) took up advocacy on behalf of the journalists to allow them to remain. An Indian court later granted them sanctuary.<\/span><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-AFGHANISTAN-CONFLICT-PROTEST” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Afghans residing in India protest the Taliban\u2019s military takeover of Afghanistan outside the UN Refugee Agency (UNHCR) office in New Delhi on August 23, 2021. Across South Asia, displays of international solidarity marked a collective denigration of Afghanistan\u2019s new regime. Credit: Sajjad HUSSAIN \/ AFP<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n With governments in the region trampling upon citizens\u2019 rights, the judiciary in many countries stepped in to uphold constitutionally guaranteed rights to freedom of speech and expression and freedom of the press.<\/p>\n In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government. In petitions challenging the government\u2019s illegal surveillance, in the wake of the Pegasus investigation in July 2021, the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of India, NV Ramana said, \u201callegations are serious if the reports are correct\u2026The truth has to come out\u201d.<\/p>\n In Pakistan, the Islamabad High Court (IHC) in a landmark ruling in April 2022, struck down criminal defamation in the Pakistan Electronic Crimes Act, a decisive order in favour of press freedom. The IHC by converting letters by the PFUJ regarding illegal terminations, irregular salaries and safety issues into petitions, is another positive move towards journalists\u2019 rights.<\/p>\n In some cases, lower courts pushing for rule of law also came as a welcome step. A local court directed the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA) of Pakistan to ensure filing of investigation reports in court regarding 1,200 pending inquiries relating to online harassment, identity theft, pornography and other offences registered in Karachi.<\/p>\n In the Maldives, on January 19, 2022, a criminal court found two men guilty of murdering blogger Yameen Rasheed in 2017 and sentenced them to life imprisonment. The police said that the group of radicalised young men\u00a0believed\u00a0that Yameen deserved to be killed for \u201cinsulting Islam\u201d. Although the trial was bumpy, witnesses were intimidated and the authorities\u2019 professionalism was called into question, that an indictment of the perpetrators was reached is a step forward.<\/p>\n Likewise, the April 13, 2022, verdict of a Dhaka court sentencing to death four of those accused of murdering eminent secular writer Professor Humayun Azad in 2004 provides a hope that the wheels of justice are turning, albeit very slowly.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9AP846-Nepalese-Students-Union-carry-effigy-of-President-Bidhya-Devi-Bhandari-and-PM-Sharma-Oli-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP-e1650512087636.jpg” title_text=”NEPAL-POLITICS-PROTEST2″ force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Members of the Nepalese Students Union carry an effigy of President Bidhya Devi Bhandri and Prime Minister Sharma Oli on May 25, 2021, after Nepal’s parliament was dissolved for the second time in just five months. Credit: Prakash Mathema \/ AFP<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern. Highlighting the harassment of journalists in Jammu and Kashmir, the UN Special Rapporteur on promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression, Irene Khan, and Elina Steinert, the vice-chair of the Working Group on Arbitrary Detention in June 3, 2021, urged, \u201call necessary interim measures be taken to halt the alleged violations and prevent their re-occurrence and in the event that the investigations support or suggest the allegations to be correct, to ensure the accountability of any person(s) responsible for the alleged violations,\u201d The report cited examples of\u00a0jailed journalists and the use of the Unlawful Activities Prevention Act and other counter-terror laws on journalists.<\/p>\n In March 2022, \u00a0UN human rights experts including from the UN Working Group on Enforced or Involuntary Disappearances<\/a><\/span>, Special Rapporteur on extrajudicial, summary or arbitrary executions<\/a><\/span>; Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights defenders<\/a><\/span> and the Special Rapporteur on the right to freedom of opinion and expression<\/a><\/span> called upon Bangladesh to \u201cimmediately cease reprisals against human rights defenders and relatives of forcibly disappeared persons for their activism and co-operation with international human rights bodies and UN mechanisms.\u201d This statement was issued following the threats and intimidation of civil society and human rights defender after the announcement of sanctions imposed by the United States of America against top Rapid Action Battalion (RAB) officials on December 10, 2021.<\/p>\n <\/span><\/p>\n Access to information has always been a thorny issue in the region, with most governments refusing to be transparent or accountable. The arrest of Bangladeshi journalist Rozina Islam in April 2021 under the Official Secrets Actis was a stark example of how a journalist seeking to investigate suspected corruption into the country\u2019s health ministry was not only denied access to information but was also penalised for it.<\/p>\n Even in the Maldives, where its Right to Information Act ranks 16th out of 128 RTI laws in the world, things are not smooth: the country\u2019s third Information Commissioner took up his post in September 2021, nearly seven months after the former commissioner resigned.<\/span><\/p>\n In Pakistan, a <\/span>February 2022, amendment to the cybercrimes law, PECA also threatened the right to information. But a progressive ruling by the Islamabad High Court declared the entire ordinance unconstitutional, thus protecting the Right to Information guaranteed by the Constitution of Pakistan.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][et_pb_blurb admin_label=”Blurb” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_margin=”13px||-14px|-25px||” animation_style=”fade”]<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_blurb][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9XE9MK-mural-to-spread-awareness-on-Covid-19-in-Mumbai-on-January-29-2022-Punit-PARANJPE-AFP.jpg” title_text=”INDIA-HEALTH-VIRUS” force_fullwidth=”on” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”||5px|||”][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n India\u2019s intense struggle with Covid-19 is evident as pedestrians pass a mural depicting Mexican painter Frida Kahlo wearing a facemask in Mumbai on January 29, 2022. Credit: Punit Paranjpe \/ AFP<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”text” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_margin=”|auto|1px|auto|false|false” custom_padding=”3px|||||”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” custom_padding=”||0px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The sharp decline in gender equity was nowhere starker than in Afghanistan, where women journalists were denied their right to work and be active in the public sphere. The forced retreat has undone two decades of work in enhancing gender equity in the Afghan media.<\/p>\n The November 2021 regulation issued by the Taliban government with 11 \u2018rules\u2019, urging the media to refrain from broadcasting TV programs and dramas which featured women meant that women have almost disappeared from public view, except in roles and attire approved by the Taliban. Women journalists, like all professional Afghan women, were prohibited from driving alone, their mobility tied to the presence of a male family member.<\/p>\n Meanwhile outspoken women journalists in Pakistan faced intense online harassment, including being trolled by even senior government officials who joined the online intimidation and bullying.<\/p>\n In India, the battle to push women out of the online space was unrelenting. Vicious online abuse, trolling, death and rape threats were particularly severe for Dalit and Muslim women who were regularly silenced and abused. In July 2021, an online \u2018auction\u2019 of prominent Muslim women, including journalists called \u2018Sulli deals\u2019 and once more in early 2022 called \u2018Bulli Bai\u2019 (\u2018Sulli\u2019 and \u2018Bulli\u2019 are derogatory slang for Muslim women) was launched. The Internet Freedom Foundation called the fake online auction of almost 100 Muslim women a \u201cblatant violation of their data security and privacy rights.\u201d These online apps on the GitHub platform, profiling Muslim women activists, journalists, analysts, artists and researchers were taken down after vigorous protests.<\/p>\n The good news is that for every violation of women journalists\u2019 rights, there has been an equally strong resistance.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ admin_label=”quote” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#FFFFFF” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” animation_style=”fade”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_image src=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9PW2H6-Bangladeshi-Hindus-stage-a-demonstration-in-Dhaka-in-October-2021-Munir-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg” title_text=”BANGLADESH-RELIGION-HINDUISM-PROTEST” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” hover_enabled=”0″ sticky_enabled=”0″][\/et_pb_image][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”6671dcc6-349c-4400-ae04-612e8c6d39b3″ hover_enabled=”0″ global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_enabled=”0″]<\/p>\n Bangladeshi Hindus stage a demonstration in Dhaka on October 18, 2021 to protest against the fresh religious violence against Hindus in the country. Credit: Munir Uz Zaman \/ AFP<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=”3_4,1_4″ admin_label=”Row” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” custom_padding=”4px||9px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][et_pb_column type=”3_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”52px” width=”97.3%” min_height=”273px” custom_margin=”1px|||||” global_colors_info=”{}”]<\/p>\n The bleak post-pandemic year has held many lessons for the media in the region. The first is that of sustainability and survival, and the need to diversify and remain relevant. Simultaneously it is also about lobbying for journalists\u2019 rights \u2013 on the streets, in boardrooms and in courts.<\/p>\n The other is the importance of solidarity and leveraging networks to support media colleagues both within and across borders. The need to speak out and act has never been as important at a time when hyper nationalism is making states fold in unto themselves. In the case of Afghan journalists, for example, there is a need for intervention on several fronts \u2013 from financial assistance to capacity building and supporting those in exile. The international media community must continue to train the spotlight on the crisis of the media in Afghanistan and extend long term support and solidarity.<\/p>\n The focus must also remain on Sri Lanka, where the economic crisis is likely to be long drawn out, and media freedoms likely to be compromised as the state attempts to repair the damage. International solidarity at such a time is crucial.<\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_column type=”4_4″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_text _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”]<\/p>\n Click here to download pdf of Overview and Special Reports<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n [\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ admin_label=”Feature Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ background_color=”#e5e5e5″ module_alignment=”center” min_height=”238px” height=”331px” max_height=”486px” custom_margin=”0px|0px|-3px|0px|false|false” custom_padding=”0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false” top_divider_style=”arrow2″ top_divider_color=”#FFFFFF”][et_pb_row column_structure=”1_3,1_3,1_3″ admin_label=”Stats” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ width=”77.3%” custom_padding=”115px||||false|false”][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”3.25″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Media Rights Violations” number=”210″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#999999″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Jailed or Detained” number=”60″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#E09900″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=”1_3″ admin_label=”Column” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ custom_padding=”|||” custom_padding__hover=”|||”][et_pb_number_counter title=”Killings” number=”23″ percent_sign=”off” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ title_font=”Oswald|300|||||||” title_line_height=”1.2em” number_font=”Oswald|700|||||||” number_text_color=”#FF0000″ number_font_size=”84px” width=”67.9%” custom_margin=”||-3px|||” global_colors_info=”{}”][\/et_pb_number_counter][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][\/et_pb_section]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":" [et_pb_section fb_built=”1″ fullwidth=”on” admin_label=”Section” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default”][et_pb_fullwidth_slider admin_label=”Fullwidth Slider” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”50px” header_letter_spacing=”0px” background_image=”http:\/\/x7t.a3b.myftpupload.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/OV_000_8RX38L-Amritsar-protest-against-agriculture-reform-bills-NARINDER-NANU-AFP.jpg” background_position=”center” module_alignment=”center” min_height=”427px” custom_padding=”357px||395px|||” animation_style=”fade” auto=”on”][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.24)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/sapfr.softnep.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_9LJ22M-Afghans-in-demonstration-outside-UNHCR-Sajjad-HUSSAIN-AFP-e1650512175608.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” global_colors_info=”{}” sticky_transition=”on”] THE STORY OF SOUTH ASIA [\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=”SOLIDARITY AND SURVIVAL” use_bg_overlay=”on” bg_overlay_color=”rgba(0,0,0,0.48)” _builder_version=”4.9.4″ _module_preset=”default” header_font_size=”58px” header_letter_spacing=”4px” body_font_size=”30px” background_color=”#FFFFFF” background_enable_color=”on” background_image=”http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR21-22\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/OVER_000_32877YH-Sri-Lankan-lawyers-demonstrate-against-the-economic-crisis-Ishara-S.-KODIKARA-AFP.jpg” background_enable_image=”on” […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":0,"parent":0,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"\n As the second wave of the Covid pandemic surged across South Asia in early 2021, journalists found themselves in the thick of the storm, without a safety net and scant institutional support. Battling not only the deadly virus, they mounted stiff resistance to states trying to control the narrative and plaster over the horrific reality. Journalists breaking stories of rising deaths, collapsing health systems and unpreparedness and mismanagement at the highest levels of government were silenced, hounded, arrested and penalised.<\/p>\n Even as journalists also mourned the loss of their colleagues and family members, they continued to work in the most challenging circumstances to publicise the truth. They reported from the frontlines without adequate protective equipment, exposing themselves to infection to tell stories of the suffering in hospitals, in graveyards and crematoria. Many fell ill, many others continue to suffer from the long-term impacts of the Covid syndrome. Hundreds of others succumbed, unsung heroic storytellers of the apocalypse that engulfed them.<\/p>\n To many others continued to tell one of the biggest stories of our times, while also enduring salary cuts and delays in wage payments, denial of protective personal equipment, medical insurance or reimbursement of massive medical bills to treat Covid contracted in the line of duty. Huge numbers of media workers were also rendered jobless or forced to resign in the wake of economic impacts of Covid-19. reeling under arrests and cases of sedition and terror, unrelenting trolling and abuse online, they wrote on. Some wrote on, even without a job or payment.<\/p>\n Charges of \u201canti-national\u201d, \u201cagainst national security\u201d were widely used to curb dissent through archaic laws of sedition and colonial era laws of epidemic control. With courts admitting petitions challenging the constitutionality of some of these laws, there is reason to hope for change.<\/p>\n The raging pandemic, accompanying lockdowns and economic crises were only piled on to existing barriers that the region\u2019s journalists already faced. Physical attacks and intimidation, lack of access to information, control and censorship; sharpened ethnic and religious cleavages; legal repercussions for their stories and an overall precarity of the media. Impunity for crimes against journalists continued, despite small gains. Yet, journalists bore witness and told the stories that needed to be told, with professional integrity, compassion and deep humanity.<\/p>\n Controlling the flow of information seemed to be an overriding preoccupation of governments across the region. From reigning in the burgeoning independent digital media and clamping down on critical voices on social media, governments and social media platforms fell short of upholding freedom of expression at a critical juncture.<\/p>\n At a time when the free flow of information was literally a matter of life and death, governments intolerant of critical questions, tended to use the pandemic as a pretext to curb information, and any opinion that was deemed \u201canti-government\u201d. Social media presented a particular anxiety for governments trying to curb dissent, and unfortunately, social media giants did not adequately protect citizen\u2019s right to free speech, instead complying with unreasonable takedown notices from governments.<\/p>\n Pakistan<\/strong> suffered under the harshest clampdown on dissent by any government. Media rights and freedom of expression took a severe beating, with the government seemingly leaping at the opportunity to deprive the media of both freedom and funds, driving an already beleaguered media industry into deeper crisis.\u00a0 The Prevention of Electronic Crimes Act (PECA) which criminalises free speech and gives overarching powers to law enforcement authorities, was overused in Pakistan to clamp down on free speech. The media, political opponents, activists and members of the public found the boundaries of free speech indiscriminately scrunched in violation of constitutional guarantees.<\/p>\n Arbitrary blocking of independent websites, internet and communication shutdowns were regularly deployed to censor the media. This inevitably led to the proliferation of misinformation \u2013 which Pakistan could ill-afford in the midst of not only the pandemic, but civil strife and political upheaval.\u00a0 Cutting off connectivity in politically sensitive areas in an attempt to censor news had other adverse effects during the lockdown, mainly on health and education.<\/p>\n In Bangladesh<\/strong>, it took the tragic custodial death in February 2021, of writer Mushtaq Ahmed incarcerated for ten months and repeatedly denied bail, to once more shine the spotlight on the draconian Digital Security Act (DSA) which has been widely used against journalists, bloggers and citizens to penalise free speech and critical opinion. The lone Cyber Crimes Tribunal, reeling under a staggering pending case load can barely manage due process in hearing cases, leave aside render justice.<\/p>\n In India<\/strong>, besides the time-honoured tactic of internet shutdowns to cut communications, the newly promulgated Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules 2021 gave the government the power to censor, order takedowns and block content without any recourse to appeal. Independent digital platforms termed the rules not just unconstitutional, but a blow to democracy itself, and have challenged this attempt at over-regulation in the highest court in the country. In addition to its attempt to control independent digital media, fast emerging as major players in the media landscape, the Indian government came down strongly on social media expression deemed to be critical of the government\u2019s handling of the pandemic. In the same vein, the new media Policy in Jammu and Kashmir (downgraded from state to centrally administered union territory in April 2019), issued in June 2020, was immediately viewed with disquiet by journalists, given that it empowers government officers to take action on \u201cfake news\u201d or \u201canti-national content\u201d.<\/p>\n Allegations of misinformation and rumour mongering were thrown at journalists and even citizens exposing the horrific ground reality of acute shortage of medical supplies, oxygen, overflowing hospitals and crematoria. Significantly, while content critical of the government was taken down, virulent hate speech against minorities and misogynist speech online thrived in India. Social media platforms Twitter and Facebook too succumbed to takedown requests by the government, failing to stand up for free speech.<\/p>\n Across the region, governments displayed a remarkable disrespect towards the media, and took steps to increase regulation. In Nepal<\/strong>, the government moved ahead with tougher bills and regulations such as the Media Council Bill, the Public Service Broadcasting Bill, the Information Technology Bill, and the Special Service Bill \u2013 all of which have clauses that could undermine press freedom. The clampdown on social media has been proposed on pretexts of the \u201ccountry\u2019s sovereignty, security, unity or harmony\u201d. The Media Council Bill could erode the autonomy of the media, with government-appointed regulators, a provision that has been vehemently opposed by media rights organisations.<\/p>\n The international norm of self-regulation by media was also violated in Sri Lanka<\/strong>, where in January 2021, the Cabinet of Ministers proposed to amend the Press Council Law to include electronic and new media and approved a proposal to \u2018structurally reform and reorganise\u2019 the Press Council to cover electronic and new media. The move was criticised by the Professional Web Journalists' Association which argued that the electronic and new media should be not controlled, but self-regulated with a stringent code of ethics developed by the media community itself.<\/p>\n The pandemic year was also witness to dramatic loss of jobs in the media, across the region. Over 8,000 of Pakistan\u2019s<\/strong> estimated 20,000 journalists <\/span>lost their jobs in 2020<\/a> alone, and rural and district staff were more likely to be retrenched.<\/span><\/p>\n Journalists, mainly through the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), remained up in arms for most of the year and in early 2021 launched an \u201cenough is enough\u201d campaign across the country to protest job losses, pay cuts, censorship and rising intimidation. The media industry found new external supporters, including the legal community and civil society in institutional and organised partnerships with PFUJ to jointly resist the rising attacks on media freedoms, journalists\u2019 rights and public interest journalism in Pakistan.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n In India<\/strong>, which saw a series of retrenchments from March 2020 onwards, there are no clear numbers of the job losses or salary cuts. <\/span>Estimates<\/a> put the figures in the thousands. Besides layoffs, salary cuts and delays in payments, media houses also threatened to sack staff if they wanted to work from home. The obstinacy of many managements led to staff in some media houses getting infected with the coronavirus en masse. Journalists from the regional press were harder hit, with fewer paying options than their English media counterparts. <\/span><\/p>\n \u00a0<\/span>The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) took up more than 500 complaints relating to job loss and non-payment of salary in Nepal<\/strong>. A survey conducted by the <\/span>FNJ in September 2020, revealed the desperate state of Nepal\u2019s journalists: the earning of 40 percent of journalists was affected by the pandemic and the nationwide lockdowns and women journalists were more severely impacted. Several media houses in Kathmandu suspended publications, cut down broadcast hours and decreased the size of the newspapers. The revenue of 75 percent of the once vibrant radio sector decreased due to the pandemic.<\/p>\n The story was no different in Bangladesh<\/strong> where an estimated 1,250 journalists lost their jobs and several thousand faced salary cuts or irregular payments. While media owners blamed the pandemic for the drop in revenue and resultant salary cuts, trade unionists say that irregular payments were a norm of a section of media houses which then grasped at the pandemic as a justification to deny journalists their rights.<\/p>\n The pandemic crisis however, only added to existing pressures that journalists across the region face. A major threat being the increasing polarisation on communal lines.<\/span><\/p>\n South Asia has ravaged by religious, ethnic and caste divides for decades, but the growing cleavages of the last few years have been unprecedented. With hyper-nationalist parties in power in many countries in the region drawing votes and support from religiously aligned groups, the polity too has been sharply divided. Minorities in India, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Bangladesh have been particularly vulnerable, in this context of majoritarian politics. These divisions have inevitably affected the media. While some sections have added to the problem by exacerbating divisions and amplifying hate, others have had to struggle to remain independent.<\/p>\n Existing fault lines were exacerbated by external situations that are likely to impact the whole region. The proposed withdrawal of US-NATO troops from Afghanistan by the coming September is feared to increase the Taliban's influence in Afghanistan<\/strong>, a development that could have a ripple effect in the region in terms of encouraging radicalism. Hard worn democratic and secular gains could be pushed back, with a direct impact on the media and individual journalists. Likewise, growing communalism in India<\/strong>, encouraged by the government in power, has a dangerous spill over effect in the neighbourhood, contributing to more polarisation and the strengthening of extremist groups. The media cannot be immune from attack, even as it attempts to uphold constitutional values, and the rights of women, minorities and the marginalised.<\/p>\n Religion in the Maldives<\/strong> is a no-go topic in public discourse, and the fear of being labelled anti-Islam contributes to the journalists practicing self-censorship of forgoing bylines while reporting on extremism in the country. As part of official control, the Communications Authority of Maldives blocks websites with anti-Islamic content upon request by ministries and other agencies. Though social media use is growing, intimidation and deaths threats pose the greatest challenge for free expression online. The yet unsolved murders of journalist Ahmed Rilwan and blogger Yameen Rashid known for their vocal criticism of religious fundamentalism are grim reminders of the risks of speaking out for religious freedom or minority rights. In its World Report 2021, Human Rights Watch accused the government of failing to confront the influence of hard-line Islamist groups. \u201cOnline intimidation of human rights groups continued to have a chilling effect on civil society in 2020,\u201d and reiterated calls to tackle hate speech and violence online.<\/p>\n The state response to tackling religious extremism however, often has serious implications for freedom of expression and civil rights. In Sri<\/strong> Lanka<\/strong>, the Prevention of Terrorism (De-radicalisation from Holding Violent Extremist Religious Ideology) Regulations were issued in march 2021, expanding on the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA). Powers given to authorities to detain and \u2018rehabilitate\u2019 anyone who \u2018by words either spoken or intended to be read or by signs or by visible representations\u2019 causes the commission of violence or \u2018religious, racial or communal disharmony or feelings of ill will or hostility between different communities or racial or religious groups\u2019 is prone to misuse, fear activists. The spate of arrests in cases of hate speech, mostly of Tamil and Muslim minorities further reinforces this apprehension of selective use of power by law enforcement agencies.<\/p>\n The rampant vitriol and violence online were particularly targeted at women journalists in the region. Pakistani<\/strong> women journalists had a rough year, facing unrelenting abuse by organised troll armies, many backed by members of the ruling party, prompting them to release a petition taking the government to account. Similar was the case across the border in India<\/strong>, where online abuse took a heavy toll in an already stressful year of the pandemic. Sexist abuse, misogyny and spillover of online to offline stalking and violence became the price that women journalists paid for speaking out.<\/span><\/p>\n The marginalised existence of women journalists in South Asia\u2019s media community is itself one of the factors contributing to precarity. A report released in early 2020 by the South Asia Women\u2019s Network, showed that women accounted for only 29 per cent of staff in Maldives<\/strong> media organisations. Only five per cent leadership roles were occupied by women. Paradoxically, the enrolment of women in journalism courses in the Maldives was higher than men at 3:1. This data begs the question: where do these professional women vanish? The answer probably lies in another finding of the study: women face immense discrimination, harassment and bullying at the workplace.<\/p>\n Nepali<\/strong> women journalists too faced character assassination, body shaming, speculation about sexual links with prominent men, with women journalists from marginalised communities such as Madhesi and Dalit are more intensive attack. Women journalists fought back, and refused to be silenced, speedily blocking abusers, reporting them and also using aliases to move forward and express themselves online.<\/p>\n Almost all countries in South Asia sought to tighten controls over access to information, denying journalists a basic tool for accurate reporting. In Afghanistan<\/strong>, despite an Access to Information Law passed in 2014 and amended in 2018, there are barriers to information access. The setting up of an independent Information Access Commission with 65 government-level departments to assist in the transfer of information from government offices to the media, is potentially a step towards easing access. However, implementation remains a question, given other moves that restrict access, for example the 2020 restrictions authorising only governors to share information with the media, thus creating huge bottlenecks. Moreover, with the imminent withdrawal of the US-NATO troops in the coming year, the barriers to accessing information regarding the opaque agencies of security, justice and peace will undoubtedly impact credible reporting at this crucial juncture.<\/p>\n In Bhutan<\/strong>, access to information is still wrapped up in red-tape and complicated bureaucratic procedure in a hierarchical set up, necessitating permissions to record videos or take a photo. Besides media persons, researchers and scholars in Bhutan are also coming up against the same obstacles. Free speech and expression as well as pursuit of research are thus impeded by official barriers.<\/p>\n Despite the passage of the Right to Information Act in the Maldives<\/strong> six years ago, a culture of secrecy persists and journalists are hard put to access information from certain state agencies. A survey by the Human Rights Commission of Maldives released in December 2020 showed that a majority of people were dissatisfied with access to official information and only 36 percent found the right to information law to have been helpful.<\/p>\n In India<\/strong>, the repercussions of the 2019 amendments to the once robust Right to Information Act could be seen during the pandemic when access to information was vital \u2013 access to data on funds, vaccine roll out and health infrastructure was repeatedly blocked by official agencies and the Central Information Commission did little to enable the flow of critical information.<\/p>\n Likewise, Sri Lanka<\/strong> too witnessed the dilution of its Right to Information Commission, which could affect its independent functioning.<\/p>\n \u00a0<\/em><\/strong>Despite the relentless battles on several fronts, while struggling to stay afloat, South Asian journalists valiantly put up a resistance to the onslaught on media rights in all countries of the region. Challenges in court, mobilising and collective action despite the restrictions in mobility and the overwhelming public health crisis, were evidence of a spirited defiance.<\/p>\n The attempt to control the digital space by governments in several countries in the region was met with a heartening push back. In Pakistan,<\/strong> independent online journalism platforms together formed the Digital Media Alliance of Pakistan (DigiMAP<\/a>) to challenge and resist the state\u2019s increasing authoritarianism on national dialogues initiated by grassroots communities. DigiMAP represents the emerging bold new ecosystem of independent media start-ups that have taken it upon themselves to champion the cause of public interest journalism that the legacy media has been forced to surrender before an increasingly hostile state. DigiMAP also put out a strong statement<\/a> against the new digital regulations.<\/p>\n Despite the burgeoning digital media in India<\/strong> and its vital role in promoting independent journalism, there was until now no single body representing the digital news media. Eleven digital media organisations came together in October 2020 to launch the DIGIPUB News India Foundation \u201cto represent, amplify and evolve best practices to build a robust digital news ecology that is truly world-class, independent and upholds the highest standards of journalism,\u201d One of its first actions was to challenge the Information Technology (Intermediary Guidelines and Digital Media Ethics Code) Rules, 2021 in court, as an infringement of freedom of expression.<\/p>\nIn Afghanistan, amidst all the turmoil, journalists and media workers have been subjected to severe psychological pressure from the Taliban\u2019s Ministry of the Propagation of Virtue and the Prevention of Vice.<\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/h1>\n
Dealing with hate speech<\/h3>\n
When increased attention to certain forms of content results in greater revenue, in accordance with the model of digital capitalism, and algorithms are designed to harvest attention, there is a very real threat of misinformation.<\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/h1>\n
Struggle for survival<\/h3>\n
<\/h1>\n
Away from home<\/h3>\n
<\/h1>\n
Hope from the judiciary<\/h3>\n
In landmark cases dealing with defamation and sedition, the Supreme Court of India unwaveringly upheld citizens\u2019 right to critique the government.<\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/h1>\n
UN Special Rapporteurs speak<\/h3>\n
Right to information<\/h3>\n
Even as the situation for journalists declined in many countries, United Nations Special Rapporteurs stepped in to express concern.<\/span><\/h2>\n
<\/h1>\n
Gender inequity<\/h3>\n
<\/h1>\n
<\/h3>\n
Way forward<\/h3>\n
The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/NEP_000_92U7LM-Mock-funeral-for-sexual-assaults-PRAKASH-MATHEMA-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]
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The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/BANG_000_93Z8WT-Bangladesh-protest-Mushtaq-Ahmed-Munir-death-in-custody-UZ-ZAMAN-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]
The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/Maldives\/A-Covid-19-press-briefing-by-President-Solih-on-June-23-Credit-President_s-Office-2-scaled.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]
The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/AFG000_94J2MK-International-womens-day-Afghanistan-WAKIL-KOHSAR-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]
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The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][et_pb_slide heading=\"Truth in a time of contagion\" use_bg_overlay=\"on\" bg_overlay_color=\"rgba(0,0,0,0.43)\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" body_font_size=\"30px\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" background_enable_color=\"on\" background_image=\"http:\/\/samsn.ifj.org\/SAPFR\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/04\/LAW_000_8Z94D9-Afghan-President-Ashraf-Ghani-arrives-in-Herat-January-2021-HOSHANG-HASHIMI-AFP.jpg\" background_enable_image=\"on\" global_colors_info=\"{}\" sticky_transition=\"on\"]
The Viral Frontline<\/span><\/h1>[\/et_pb_slide][\/et_pb_fullwidth_slider][\/et_pb_section][et_pb_section fb_built=\"1\" admin_label=\"Section\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" min_height=\"1286.7px\" custom_margin=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\"][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" min_height=\"131px\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"57px|||||\" border_style_all=\"none\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" min_height=\"65px\" border_width_bottom=\"5px\" border_style_bottom=\"solid\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]
Overview<\/strong><\/h2>[\/et_pb_text][\/et_pb_column][et_pb_column type=\"1_4\" admin_label=\"quote\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" background_color=\"#FFFFFF\" custom_padding=\"0px|0px|0px|0px|false|false\" animation_style=\"fade\"][\/et_pb_column][\/et_pb_row][et_pb_row column_structure=\"3_4,1_4\" admin_label=\"text\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_margin=\"|auto|1px|auto|false|false\" custom_padding=\"3px|||||\"][et_pb_column type=\"3_4\" admin_label=\"Column\" _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" custom_padding=\"|||\" custom_padding__hover=\"|||\"][et_pb_text _builder_version=\"4.9.4\" _module_preset=\"default\" header_font_size=\"52px\" width=\"97.3%\" min_height=\"1217px\" global_colors_info=\"{}\"]
<\/h1>\n
Pandemic, the Press and the New Digital Order<\/h3>\n
Regional trends<\/h3>\n
Tightening regulation and digital controls<\/h4>\n
Livelihood in peril<\/h4>\n
Rising Extremism<\/h4>\n
Women journalists in the firing line<\/h4>\n
Patchy access to information<\/h4>\n
Welcome pushback<\/h4>\n
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<\/p>\n