Access to information, escape from China, revival of broadcast and resilient media voices
IFEX members across Asia-Pacific celebrated the International Day for Universal Access to Information by releasing statements, organizing assemblies and trainings, and partnering with various institutions and stakeholders that seek to rally greater public awareness and support for the people’s right to information (RTI). Reporters Without Borders (RSF) supported the work of Circle 19, an independent global group supporting the right to information in China. The group’s name refers to Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as well as China’s “May Fourth movement” in 1919, which advocated for progressive reforms, including freedom of information. They believe that “the right to information is a central element of Chinese culture and that its implementation has been, and remains to this day, a constant demand of the Chinese people.” The Afghanistan Journalists Center (AFJC) identified at least 13 directives issued by the Taliban over the past two years, which have severely restricted the work of media in Afghanistan. These directives range from banning the employment of women in the media sector, outlawing news coverage of protests, and censoring the broadcast of international news programs. Because of the dire situation, AFJC has implemented several programs aimed at promoting access to information while evading the repressive rules of the Taliban. AFJC shared their experience in an interview with Global Voices.
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