As the coronavirus pandemic rages on, governments in several countries are reacting ham-handedly to media accounts critical of their responses and nearly 40 journalists have reportedly been arrested or charged.
The United Nations and International Press Institute say cases have been registered against journalists including arrests in regions including the Asia-Pacific, the Americas, Europe, the Middle East and Africa, for stories critical of government responses to the pandemic or for questioning the accuracy of official numbers of COVID-19 cases and deaths.
According to IPI, the actual number of media violations and arrests is probably far higher.
The Institute says since the start of the outbreak there have been more than 130 alleged violations of basic press freedom.
IPI registers 10 journalists arrested, detained in Asia/Pacific region in connection to their work reporting on #COVID19
“Rrestrictive measures” imposed on media as well as the “arrest and intimidation” of journalists, is hindering the free flow information, which remains “vital in fighting Covid-19,” she says.
UN Human Rights Chief is alarmed at the hostile environment some political leaders have created towards the media: free flow of information about #COVID19 is vital.
"Credible, accurate reporting is a lifeline for us all" – @mbachelet.
“Some States have used the outbreak of the new coronavirus as a pretext to restrict information and stifle criticism”, she said.
“A free media is always essential, but we have never depended on it more than we do during this pandemic, when so many people are isolated and fearing for their health and livelihoods”.
The human rights defender also notes that some political leaders have created a hostile environment, which compromises the safety and ability of journalists and media workers to do their job.
“This is no time to blame the messenger”, Bachelet said in a statement.
“Rather than threatening journalists or stifling criticism, States should encourage healthy debate concerning the pandemic and its consequences.”
Iftikhar Ali is a veteran Pakistani journalist, former president of UN Correspondents Association, and a recipient of the Pride of Performance civil award
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