New Film Rekindles Spotlight on Anna Politkovskaya’s Legacy and Ongoing Dangers for Journalists
April 30, 2025
Bangladeshi Journalists Fired for Asking Critical Questions Amid Growing Press Clampdown
April 30, 2025
April 30, 2025 – General –
As the world marked World Press Freedom Day 2025, attention turned to the growing number of journalists forced into exile for doing their jobs. Celebrated annually on May 3, this year’s theme—centered on the role of journalism in helping society “see the full picture”—highlighted the essential nature of independent reporting in democratic life, especially as threats against journalists continue to rise globally.
Organizations like the Rory Peck Trust and Global Voices spotlighted the struggles of reporters who have had to flee their home countries due to threats, imprisonment, censorship, or violence. These journalists, many of whom have faced politically motivated charges or threats from powerful actors, often continue their work from abroad, despite the personal and professional toll of exile. Their stories reveal a troubling global trend: increasingly, repressive regimes are silencing voices not just within their borders, but across them.
From Belarus to Iran, Afghanistan to Nicaragua, exiled journalists have become crucial lifelines to truth for their fellow citizens back home. Yet, they often lack legal protections, stable income, or support networks in the countries they flee to. Many rely on international organizations and advocacy groups for resources, safety training, and platforms to keep publishing.
UNESCO’s statement this year emphasized that without fearless reporting, the world risks losing sight of the complexities behind major global crises—from conflict and corruption to misinformation and environmental collapse. The organization reaffirmed that protecting journalists is not just a media issue, but a fundamental human rights concern.
Despite technological advances that make remote reporting easier, journalists in exile often face digital surveillance, online harassment, and isolation. Still, their commitment to truth remains unwavering. Their work continues to expose abuses, amplify suppressed voices, and hold power to account—even from thousands of miles away.
On this World Press Freedom Day, advocates called on governments and international bodies to offer greater protections and support for exiled journalists, and to hold accountable those who force them into silence. Their resilience stands as a reminder that journalism knows no borders—and neither should the fight for freedom of expression.
Reference –
https://globalvoices.org/special/journalism-in-exile-world-press-freedom-day-2025/
This World Press Freedom Day, stand with journalists-in-exile
