On May 3, Secretary of State Antony Blinken held a briefing on the state of world press freedom. During the meeting, he told specific stories of assaults on the press in Russia and Burma. Blinken specifically urged “Russia to cease the abuse of repressive laws to target nonviolent organizations and individuals as well as journalists.” He outlined three action steps the US is taking to combat assaults on the press: (1) “taking urgent steps to help protect journalists in conflict areas,” (2) “raise the profile of cases of journalists who are being targeted for their work—using every platform and diplomatic engagement that we have,” and (3) helping independent media in financial peril…[by] providing direct financial assistance to at-risk outlets. Blinken emphasized that “a vibrant free press, an informed citizenry are key for any nation and its future.” Read more.
Members of the News/Media Alliance staff have contributed to this post.
