(FLIP/IFEX) – The following is a 3 May 2003 FLIP press release: World Press Freedom Day Press freedom: because we have the right to be informed. Thus far in 2003, another violation against the press occurs every third day. Today, on 3 May, World Press Freedom Day, we commemorate the closure of the Hora Cero […]
(FLIP/IFEX) – The following is a 3 May 2003 FLIP press release:
World Press Freedom Day
Press freedom: because we have the right to be informed.
Thus far in 2003, another violation against the press occurs every third day.
Today, on 3 May, World Press Freedom Day, we commemorate the closure of the Hora Cero programme, the only news programme that was still being broadcast on the A public television station, the silencing of the media in Arauca and the 45 Colombian journalists who have been attacked so far this year by those who do not want society to be informed.
Four journalists were recently assassinated for carrying out their profession. Three were killed in the last month: José Emeterio Rivas in Barrancabermeja, Guillermo Bravo in Neiva and Jaime Rengifo in Maicao. The fourth journalist, Luis Eduardo Alfonso, was killed on 18 March in Arauca.
In addition, there were four kidnappings that involved 10 journalists and 24 threats were issued and resulted in four journalists leaving the country. Seven other reporters were assaulted or prevented from carrying out their profession.
These numbers do not include the assassination of two other journalists. The motive for their murder remains unclear. Also not included are a number of threats and attacks that were not reported because of fear, and incidents that occurred in regions in the country Colombian are used to knowing little about.
These violations are brought before a justice system that has failed to achieve results when it comes to identifying and punishing those responsible for committing these acts.
On the occasion of World Press Freedom Day, the Foundation for Press Freedom, the Antonio Nariño Project and the Press and Society Institute (Instituto Prensa y Sociedad) invite Colombians and the Colombian government to reflect on and respond to the difficult situation in Colombia for freedom of the press, expression and opinion.
Journalists face great difficulties in exercising their profession. Even more alarming, however, is the fact that democracy in Colombia is under grave threat. A society that cannot access information nor express itself cannot adequately participate in and take decisions on matters of public interest.
