We have seen the continued political attacks from the some on the right on journalists in American politics. They are an easy target by politicians who try to get followers not to listen to independent journalists. However, the annual World Press Freedom Review shows reporters continue to serve their critical function in the world under intense threats and coercion. Last year, 102 journalists were killed.
While that figure is down slightly by eight from the year before, the group notes that it is in fact a worse year because there was no single conflict that claimed a large number of lives. It was the result of worldwide threats against journalists that claimed so many lives.
The most dangerous area remains Asia, where 40 reporters were slain, followed by Latin America where 32 were killed. The single most dangerous country is Pakistan.
As politicians attack journalists, we need to remember that few of these demagogs would place themselves in such danger. These journalists often live in continual threat of attack but continued to seek and speak the truth.
Source: Mail
“These journalists often live in continual threat of attack but continued to seek and speak the truth.”
As we all should…
“As politicians attack journalists, we need to remember that few of these demagogs would place themselves in such danger. These journalists often live in continual threat of attack but continued to seek and speak the truth.”
Well said, Professor. It reminds me of when the right attacked Lara Logan … it’s easy to criticize and condemn those for doing what the one’s sitting comfortably in air conditioned studios and offices are too cowardly to do themselves.
Iran presses Syria over missing journalist
Foreign minister “demands” Syrian government look into case of missing Al Jazeera English journalist Dorothy Parvaz.
02 May 2011
http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2011/05/201152182235900733.html
While there are many really good journalists roaming the world, too many unfortunately are little more than company stooges reporting the distortions rather than the facts. While the good ethical ones should be cherished, they are unfortunately those who suffer the brunt of the attacks, for obvious reasons.
Amen to Mike S.’s comment. We need some of these brave journalists here in the states that are willing to go after the torture crowd and the bought and sold Supreme Court.