Media Action Nepal report highlights 34 press violation incidents over the year

KATHMANDU: Media Action Nepal released its comprehensive report titled “Media under Threat: Trends and Cases of Press Freedom in Nepal” on Friday, coinciding with World Press Freedom Day.

The report sheds light on the state of press freedom in Nepal between May 4, 2023, and May 3, 2024.

According to the report, a staggering 34 cases of press violation incidents were documented during this period.

These incidents were categorized based on Media Action Nepal’s seven indicators, including threats, killings, illegal arrests, misuse of law, seizure of equipment, newsroom harassment, and information blockage.

The report highlights a concerning trend where over 79 per cent of journalists faced threats while reporting, writing, or gathering information.

Additionally, the poor implementation of the Working Journalists Act (WJA) has led to journalists being forced to change careers or facing censorship and compromising content integrity.

The report also brings attention to the challenges faced by journalists reporting on environmental issues, with instances of threats and illegal arrests documented.

Furthermore, it underscores the issue of impunity, noting that only five journalists have received justice so far, out of 39 cases from the conflict era.

Moreover, the report raises concerns about recent government actions such as the ban on TikTok and the introduction of the Social Media Bill (SMB), which could potentially restrict freedom of expression and online civic space guaranteed by the Constitution of Nepal.

Despite a perceived decrease in press violation incidents compared to previous years, the report emphasizes that violations continue to occur, particularly with authorities curbing press freedom.

Priyanka Jha, Vice Chair of Media Action Nepal, stressed the importance of the report in understanding the media freedom landscape in Nepal.

The report’s analysis of trends and recorded cases provides valuable insights into the state of press freedom, impunity, environmental issues, and labor rights violations in the country.