Around 55 journalists are currently in detention or serving jail sentences as the junta continues to impose harsh media restrictions.
This statement was originally published on eng.mizzima.com on 13 March 2025.
This report details the ongoing challenges faced by independent journalists and media workers in Myanmar following the 2021 military coup.
While arrests have decreased since the immediate aftermath of the coup, the environment remains extremely dangerous. Journalists face threats from the junta (SAC), ethnic armed organizations (EAOs), and pervasive surveillance. Financial instability, job insecurity, and mental health issues compound the risks.
Many media outlets operate in exile, facing their own set of legal, logistical, and financial hurdles. Citizen Journalists (CJs) play a crucial role but are particularly vulnerable. Disinformation campaigns further complicate the media landscape. The report emphasizes the urgent need for continued support for independent journalism in Myanmar, focusing on safety, financial sustainability, and mental health.
Continuing Threats to Press Freedom
Despite a decrease in the number of arrests compared to 2021-2023, Myanmar remains one of the most hazardous places for press freedom globally. “On a world level, Myanmar remains one of the most hazardous places for press freedom. The independent media outlets are targeted, reporters are arrested, some even face fatal consequences and are killed.” The report clearly states that complacency is not an option, as risks persist.
Arrests, Detentions, and Releases
209 journalists and news workers were arrested from the 2021 coup until December 2024.
55 are currently in detention or serving jail sentences.
152 have been released.
77 have been convicted.
10 have died.
Most cases of arrests involved men, but 30 women have been arrested since the coup, and 7 remain detained/serving jail sentences.
Shift to Exile Operations
Many journalists and media outlets have been forced into exile due to the junta’s crackdown. Operating from abroad presents challenges related to access, verification, legal constraints, and financial burdens. “Operating from abroad limits direct access to local events and increases reliance on local sources, which can pose verification difficulties.”
“Myanmar’s independent media industry is under immense pressure, leading to widespread layoffs and salary reductions for journalists as media outlets struggle to stay afloat.”
Economic Hardship
Independent media outlets face severe financial constraints due to declining advertising revenue, reduced donor funding, and increased operational costs. This has led to layoffs, salary reductions, and delayed payments.
“Over the last three or more years, the media houses have been forced to cut back on costs, resulting in substantial layoff, salary reductions and delayed freelance payments.”
Job insecurity is a major concern. “Myanmar’s independent media industry is under immense pressure, leading to widespread layoffs and salary reductions for journalists as media outlets struggle to stay afloat.”
Surveillance and Censorship
The junta employs extensive digital and physical surveillance to monitor journalists, intercept communications, and track movements. Internet blackouts and restrictions on VPNs hinder reporting.
“Myanmar junta authorities have intensified surveillance efforts to attempt to monitor journalists’ communications and track their movements, significantly heightening the risks for those reporting on the conflict.”
Disinformation and Propaganda
The military junta actively engages in disinformation campaigns to discredit independent journalism and manipulate public perception. “In this polarized environment, disinformation campaigns by the military and its allies aim to discredit independent journalism.”
Gender-Specific Challenges
Female journalists face additional obstacles, including gender-based discrimination, harassment, threats of sexual violence, and online abuse. “Female journalists often encounter additional obstacles, such as gender-based discrimination, cultural expectations, and safety concerns while working undercover, or as a reporter in resistance-held areas.”
“They face unique challenges, including gender-specific harassment and threats of sexual violence. This extends beyond physical danger to include digital threats.”
This briefing document summarizes the critical situation for journalism in Myanmar as of the end of 2024 and highlights the urgent need for continued support and protection for those working to report the truth.
Grab your report here – https://tinyurl.com/ydvwfs2x
