The Independent Press Council Myanmar (IPCM) has reported that over 200 journalists have been arrested during the nearly four years since the military coup, with 43 journalists still imprisoned across the country as of 25 January 2025.
According to IPCM’s 26 January statement, among the imprisoned journalists, 11 have received sentences ranging from life imprisonment to a minimum of 10 years, while the others are serving sentences between 3 to 10 years.
The report also revealed that seven journalists have died due to the military junta’s arrest, torture, and killing while they were conducting their journalistic duties.
IPCM Chairperson Nan Paw Gay said: “The main challenges ahead for media outlets and journalists are operational sustainability and security. Media organizations may face increasing operational difficulties, and there will likely be more security challenges in reporting news freely and ethically.”
Furthermore, IPCM has called on various organizations to protect and promote freedom of the press and ensure journalists can work independently.
The organization specifically called on all groups, particularly armed organizations, pay special attention to protecting the severely threatened freedom of press, journalists’ access to information, and enhanced protection for media workers.
“The only protection for media professionals is media ethics. Also, we want armed organizations in particular to cooperate in ensuring journalists can work independently and safely, without psychological threats or physical violence,” said IPCM Chairperson Nan Paw Gay.
According to IPCM’s statement, 15 domestic media outlets have had their operating licenses revoked for reporting on the junta’s violence and human rights violations against civilians since the coup.
Moreover, IPCM stated that the military council has unilaterally amended media-related laws and continues to arrest and imprison journalists working ethically under various charges, including the Counter-Terrorism Law.
IPCM condemned the arbitrary arrests, imprisonment, torture, and killing of media professionals and called for accountability from perpetrators in their statement.
Established in December 2023, IPCM has been working to protect journalists’ rights, including their freedom to gather news, by engaging with regional authorities such as the Karen National Union (KNU) in the current conflict situation.
Sent by KIC.