ARTICLE 19

The authorities have done little to guarantee press freedom, as investigations into recent attacks have not advanced and no one has been detained.

The organisation found the legislation to be lacking significant provisions that would ensure that the rights to privacy and freedom of expression and information are appropriately balanced.

Paul Chambers’ conviction was quashed following a Divisional Court ruling that a Tweet in which Chambers jokingly threatened to blow up an airport was not objectively “menacing”.

In 2011, Intigam Aliyev was arrested at the Istanbul airport, beaten by guards and deported to Azerbaijan; six months later he learned that Turkish officials had opened a case against him.

ARTICLE 19 is pleased the bill intends to respect international standards for freedom of expression, but points out that improvements are still needed to safeguard the media’s independence.

The report highlights cases of artists around the world whose right to freedom of expression has been curtailed and abused, and seeks to more effectively promote and defend freedom to create.

ARTICLE 19 is concerned over a spate of assaults on and threats against journalists and is calling on the authorities to take immediate action to protect them.

Hiram González Machi said that in previous break-ins the criminals had stolen valuable items. This time, however, nothing was taken; the only evidence was damage to his property and the threat “Reporter, you’re going to die.”