Inter American Press Association

The Inter American Press Association (IAPA) expresses deep concern over a threat of digital censorship affecting the newspaper Listín Diario in the Dominican Republic, apparently in retaliation for publishing information of public interest related to a judicial case involving alleged corruption.

“This ruling represents a victory for press freedom in Panama and sets a precedent reinforcing the essential role of journalism in holding those in power accountable. We applaud the Supreme Court for upholding the principle that public interest must prevail over attempts to silence the media through civil lawsuits” – IAPA

“Across the hemisphere, we see how journalists and media outlets face a hostile reality: from physical violence to judicial harassment, from economic censorship to public stigmatization. Authoritarian governments and weakened democracies are increasingly resorting to repressive tactics to silence independent voices.”

In 2016, a year before her death, Breach began receiving threats and pressures due to her reports on violent displacements in the Sierra Tarahumara and her investigations into the connections between drug trafficking groups and local politicians.

The highest authority of the Armed Forces initiated actions against 12 media outlets in order to force them to reveal their sources.

The legal action against “El Heraldo” was apparently initiated in retaliation for the publication of a series of reports.

Restrictions are caused by the Executive’s tendency to stigmatize and attempt to intimidate critical journalism, creating a climate of tension that affects media work and promotes fear and self-censorship.

Journalists Markenzy Nathoux from Boston Caribbean Network and radio Lavi FM, and Jimmy Jean from Moun Afè Bon TV were killed in the attack.