Journalists from Burma Create Independent Press Council
By Network Media Group
Friday, December 29, 2023
Media groups from Burma convened to establish the Independent Press Council Myanmar (IPCM) with the goal of championing media freedom and safeguarding journalists.
Nan Paw Gay, the Chair of IPCM, criticized the press media council under the military regime, noting its lack of independence, representation, and protection for journalists. “After the military coup, many journalists were arrested and sentenced to prison for various charges. The military council has threatened the lives of journalists, but the press media council didn’t do anything to help them,” she stated.
She emphasized their refusal to collaborate under the oppressive State Administration Council (SAC) and their commitment to working for the welfare of journalists in Burma, considering it their duty. “For the Burmese media community, we have a common ground to implement media freedom, security, and the protection of journalists, draw up and practice media ethics, and cooperate with international media groups.”
IPCM intends to gather data about incarcerated journalists to bring global attention to their plight and advocate for their release. Nan Paw Gay also mentioned plans to create reports highlighting the challenges faced by the media under the coup.
As of mid-December, the Assistance Association for Political Prisoners reported that the military regime had jailed 61 journalists across the country. IPCM has called for their immediate release.
Burma ranked 177 out of 180 countries on the Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index.
In its inaugural meeting last week in Thailand, IPCM saw the participation of 77 journalists from 37 media outlets within and outside Burma. The journalists elected members of the central executive committee, including the chair and other leaders during the meeting. They also outlined the organisational structure and constitution and discussed future plans.
