Stories from May, 2024
The latest defamation bill further tightens restrictions on free speech in Pakistan
The Punjab Assembly recently passed the Defamation Bill 2024, which aims at curbing the spread of fake news across print, electronic, and social media platforms against government officials and institutions.
Hong Kong's first domestic security arrest targets Tiananmen activist Chow Hang-tung and her supporters
Ahead of the 35th anniversary of June 4, HK police said the Facebook posts made use of an “upcoming sensitive date” to incite hatred against the central and Hong Kong governments.
Three ways to tackle digital rights in Africa
Instances such as Nigeria's X (Twitter) ban and Senegal's internet restrictions exemplify the extent to which governments are infringing upon citizens' online freedoms.
In Russia, a journalist is detained for ‘apology’ for the Taliban
Nadezhda Kevorkova’s pro-Palestinian information and human rights activities could also have been the reason for her arrest.
Pakistan administered Kashmir faces internet shutdown amidst protests
In May 2024, Pakistan-administered Azad Kashmir witnessed significant unrest, with daily life profoundly impacted by internet shutdowns and the violent suppression of protests by Pakistani security forces.
Activists call for the shutdown of the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office after three alleged spies were arrested in London
One of the three arrested is an employee of HKETO. The suspects were allegedly involved in the spying of Hong Kong activists in the U.K.
Cairo fears a ‘boomerang effect’ of pro-Palestine protests
Egypt's President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi oppresses pro-Palestine protests due to his fears that speaking out about the Palestinian issue during protests might motivate the public to rally against him.
Thai youth activist charged with royal defamation dies in custody
"This is a shocking reminder that Thai authorities are harshly denying pro-democracy activists their freedom in an apparent bid to silence the peaceful expression of dissent."
Guatemalan journalist receives prestigious award from prison
"Jose Zamora symbolizes the democratic crossroads that Guatemala and other Latin American countries are currently facing"
Google blocks access to pro-democracy protest song in Hong Kong after court ruling
In addition to the blocking of 32 YouTube videos, links to the videos on Google Search will no longer visible to users in Hong Kong
Turkey joins the ranks of countries considering a foreign agent law
Turkey, is muling to adopt its own version of the foreign agent law, which has been proposed within the scope of the 9th Judicial Package.
Exiled Russian journalist scores interview with Moldovan president
Like many other opposition figures and media outlets, Yurii Dud is a Russian journalist who continues his work in exile.
Southeast Asian media groups cite need for press freedom in dealing with extreme weather events
Southeast Asian media groups organized panels, protests, and pointed reports about the state of media freedoms in the region.
Online resistance against Nicaragua‘s ‘Peace Law’
Nicaraguan activity on social media is a beacon of resistance against the government's attempts to erase the past.
Government bid to ban ‘Glory to Hong Kong’ protest song approved by appeals court
The judges said that internet platforms are ready to accede to the government’s request if there is a court order.
Pacific groups highlight role of media in addressing climate crisis
"A free press is vital to informing our communities about the environmental challenges we face and holding all accountable for protecting our precious environment."
Tanzania’s new VPN policy leaves LGBTQ+ individuals exposed
Opponents of the Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority's new VPN registration requirement argue that it threatens freedom of expression and other rights enshrined in Tanzania’s Constitution.
Hong Kong ranks low on global press freedom index as watchdog cites ‘unprecedented’ setbacks
Hong Kong placed 135 out of 180 countries and territories in the Reporters Without Borders' 2024 press freedom ranking. While the city's ranking is +5, its score actually has fallen -1.8 points.
On World Press Freedom Day, the planet and Palestine are on the Caribbean's radar
Some regional statements on the occasion of World Press Freedom Day stayed on the climate crisis theme, while others focused on the crisis in the Gaza Strip.
With eyes on Gaza, violations against West Bank journalists multiply
Highlighting the myriad challenges confronting Palestinian journalists under Israeli occupation, now ranking sixth globally for jailed journalists, alongside Iran. These challenges encompass violence, movement restrictions, and psychological strain.
