Who's behind the news?
Who's behind the news?
1.5.1
Newsjunkie.net is a resource guide for journalists. We show who's behind the news, and provide tools to help navigate the modern business of information.
Use of Data
“It may be bad to suppress a particular opinion, but the really deadly thing is to suppress the news.” —Walter Lippmann, Liberty and the News, 1920 |
The Intercept. Tennessee man remains in prison for Charlie Kirk meme post
Larry Bushart Jr., a former police officer from Tennessee, is an outspoken, left-leaning Facebook user who was never afraid to share his views, even when they clashed with those of his peers. That changed after the death of Charlie Kirk, when a meme Bushart shared on Facebook led to his arrest for allegedly “threatening mass violence at a school, ”a post that, ironically, quoted President Trump. His bail has been set at $2 million and his next court date is not until December 4. -acs
PEN America. British journalist Sami Hamdi remains in ICE custody after being detained at SFO
PEN America is calling for the immediate release of Sami Hamdi after his arrest at San Francisco International Airport. Hamdi was detained while on a speaking tour across the US, allegedly for his criticism of Israel. -acs
CPJ. Russian drones kill two Ukrainian journalistsCPJ is calling for an investigation into the murders of Olena Hramova and Yevhen Karmazin by drone strike. Both journalists had been working for Ukraine’s international state TV channels since 2012. -acs
Democracy Now. Journalist held by Israel claims abuse while in custody
A journalist who was aboard a humanitarian aid vessel headed to Gaza says she was abducted by Israeli forces and subjected to torture, describing handcuffing, beatings and threats of sexual assault during her detention. -acs
Washington Post. Journalists working at the Pentagon walk out en masse in protest of new press rules
Journalists covering the U.S. Department of Defense walked out en masse after the department introduced new accreditation policies that bar reporters from soliciting unauthorized information and limit access across large parts of its headquarters. -acs
IFJ. Afghanistan kills two journalists in two days
A media worker, Abdul Zahir Safi, was killed in an airstrike in Kabul on October 16 while working for Afghanistan’s state-run cultural broadcaster, marking the second journalist murdered in just two days in the country. -acs
Washington Post. Rutgers professor was harassed for his book on Antifa, now he is leaving the US
Historian Mark Bray has left the United States amid death threats and criticism from supporters of President Donald Trump, who have characterized him as an enemy of America and an alleged backer of domestic terrorism. Bray, who specializes in the history of fascism, has since departed the country citing safety concerns. -acs
Democracy Now. Journalist Mario Guevara deported to El Salvador by ICE
Despite living in the US for 20 years with a work permit, Mario Guevara was arrested and deported to El Salvador for live-streaming a “No Kings Day” protest. Guevara said he once trusted the US justice system and the motto “liberty and justice for all,” but no longer believes in existence of either. -acs
Indian Express. Indian student planning on attending Columbia University Graduate School of Journalism denied visa over "insufficient ties to India"
An Indian journalism student, who received a scholarship to Columbia University's graduate journalism program, had his visa rejected because of stricter visa review procedures. "It's obviously because they looked at my social media," he stated. "I'm going to apply to the UK now. I still want to be a journalist," he added. "Just not in a place that penalizes you for it.” -acs
Daily Tar Heel. Students, faculty, and community members protest firing of UNC professor Dwayne Dixon
Supporters of UNC professor Dwayne Dixon gathered outside South Building to protest his administrative leave, which the university imposed amid concerns over his alleged advocacy of politically motivated violence and affiliation with the long-disbanded “Redneck Revolt” group. One supporter stated, “this rally is powerful community demonstration of our shared desire for a better world. In solidarity and love, we struggle together to preserve our liberties.” -acs
CPJ. Russian journalist detained for "fake" news about war in Ukraine
Independent journalist Svetlana Khustik, has been placed under arrest for two months pending investigation. She is being charging with publishing “fake” information about the war in Ukraine, a crime under a recently enforced statute that could carry up to 10 years in prison. -acs
CJR. Inside the chaotic halls of NYC's immigration courts
In New York’s federal immigration court, German journalist Till Eckert spent two weeks documenting ICE’s confrontational tactics, including a woman being knocked to the floor after pleading with agents and a reporter’s violent arrest. -acs
CPJ. 8 Turkish journalists face jail for ‘insult’ and ‘false news' on TV talk show
Three journalists from Istanbul’s TELE1 network were taken into police custody last week, while several others were placed under investigation. Özgür Öğret, CPJ’s Turkey representative, stated, “Turkish authorities should welcome critical reporting and commentary as a crucial part of a working democracy, and stop prosecuting journalists.” -acs
The Guardian. Journalist Mario Guevara facing deportation after protest arrest
The ACLU says Guevara could be deported at any moment, despite an immigration judge’s initial order to grant his release on bond and his clear path to residency. He was arrested at a “No Kings Day” protest in Atlanta this past June for failing to disperse and standing in the roadway. -acs
Article 19. At least six journalists have been injured by law enforcement in France since early September
The injuries occurred during protests against the government's 2026 budget plan, which also included a general strike. Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR) partners call for an independent and swift investigation into the registered attacks, and reiterate that journalists who document social movements and police actions do so in the public interest. -acs
Institute of Mass Information. Russia has committed 847 crimes against journalists and media in Ukraine since 2022
111 media workers have been killed since the start of Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine, 12 died while reporting. Other crimes against Ukrainian journalists include legal pressure, media intimidation tactics, cyber crimes, and kidnapping. -acs
Texas Tribune. Texas A&M president, administrators, and professor brought down over LGBTQ curriculum
Several Texas A&M faculty, including Professor Melissa McCoul and the university president, were released after a student's video of a class discussion on non-binary identity caused a backlash. Critics warn of an attack on academic freedom, while officials argued McCoul strayed from the approved curriculum. -acs
The Washington Post. Israel kills 31 journalists during an airstrike in Yemen
An Israeli airstrike on September 10 struck a government press building in Sanaa, Yemen, killing 31 journalists and media workers who were preparing a weekly edition, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists. -acs
ACLU. Over 400 artists sign ACLU letter condemning the firing of Jimmy Kimmel
The group argues that such threats amount to unconstitutional censorship and a dangerous precedent, calling on the public to mobilize in defense of free speech rights. -acs
NYT. How China's history with censorship can give us insight into our future
Journalist Li Yuan asked a naturalized American lawyer from China about the state of our democracy, and whether or not we should be worried for the future. His response, “as long as late-night talk show hosts can still make fun of the president, American democracy is safe.” Now that we are on the other side of that remark, where do we go from here and what lessons can we learn from China? -acs
CNN. Inside the American monopolies that could control Tiktok
Donald Trump announced the app’s American takeover will be led by Larry Ellison, Michael Dell, and the Murdochs. This change in control will shift algorithms in the country, potentially altering the app's landscape, especially for American users. -acs
ART News. Trump orders removal of historical references to slavery from National Parks
President Trump ordered the National Park Service to remove photographs depicting slavery including a famous image known as “The Scourged Back”, which depicts an enslaved man named Peter whose back was severely scarred from whipping. -acs
Time. Charlie Kirk murdered at Utah Valley University
Right-wing political commentator, Charlie Kirk, was murdered last week while holding a debate at Utah Valley University. The suspect has now been apprehended and identified as Utah native, Tyler Robinson. At the time of writing, no motive has been reported. -acs
Human Rights Watch. Journalists are caught in the crossfire of Yemen's political violence
Journalists in Yemen have become unwilling participants in violence by warring parties, including arbitrary detentions, enforced disappearances, torture, and killings. The report highlights the Houthis' campaign of arrests since 2014, the Southern Transitional Council's detentions, and the Yemeni government's abuses, all contributing to a chilling effect on press freedom and prompting many journalists to flee or self-censor. -acs
CPJ. Sudanese journalist has been held without trial since July
Sudanese journalist El-Rashid Mohamed Haroun has been held since July 2025 by the Rapid Support Forces, a paramilitary group, without official charges or explanation. The Committee to Protect Journalists has condemned the detention and called for his immediate and unconditional release, highlighting the growing dangers for journalists in Darfur. -acs
NPR. Officials calling for the removal of workers over posts critical of Charlie Kirk
Several lawmakers and government authority figures are calling for the firing of workers who expressed contempt or even celebrated the death of right-wing commentator, Charlie Kirk. Supporters of the late Kirk even compiled an online database of accounts and posts with names of alleged perpetrators. At the time of this posting, the site has been taken down. -acs
RSF. Chinese journalist Zhang Zhan detained without trial for reporting on human rights abuses
Chinese journalist Zhang Zhan remains detained at Pudong Detention Centre, one year after her arrest. RSF and other human rights groups are calling for her release. Detained on the charge of "picking quarrels and provoking trouble," Zhang Zhan was reporting on government human rights abuses. This detention follows a four-year imprisonment for reporting on the early stages of Covid-19 and the Chinese government's attempt to downplay the pandemic's severity. -acs
Scroll.In. 19 dead in protest, after Nepali govt banned 26 media platforms
Fourteen people died and over fifty were injured after Nepali police use tear gas, water cannons, rubber bullets, and eventually live ammunition against protesters in Kathmandu. Crowds were gathered to oppose the banning of social media platforms that did not register with the country’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, including Facebook, X, and YouTube. Protesters called out against suppression of information that the government saw as “unwanted content,” leaving common citizens at the mercy of strictly government approved messaging. -acs
IPI. Press body calls on Indian authorities to drop charges against Varadarajan and Thapar of The Wire
Authorities in the Indian state of Assam have pressed charges against editors of The Wire following complaints from a local BJP politician. The charges, based on Section 152, criminalize acts that endanger India’s “sovereignty, unity, and integrity.” These charges emerged after The Wire, along with other Indian publications, commented on Operation Sindoor, specifically regarding remarks from “India’s defense attaché to Indonesia on the reasons behind India’s loss of fighter jets during a military operation.” The targeting of independent media organizations highlights India’s hypocrisy regarding free speech and journalism. -acs
CPJ. Tehran Journalists’ Association evicted from their offices
City officials in Tehran have evicted Tehran Journalists’ Association from their offices in what employees say was a targeted attack on their organization. While the city government assures the public that it was due only to the end of the lease period, workers are suspicious. The eviction came after the organization published a list of concerns regarding safety and honesty in media. Additionally, “municipal authorities evicted two other civil society groups, the Iranian Sociological Association and the House of Humanities Thinkers, from their offices in recent months.” -acs
Daily Beast. Trump's new visa plan greatly limits the media
After setting his sights on “illegal immigrants,” Trump is moving the target to the backs of those granted legal entry. This new targeted group includes journalists, and would majorly limit the visas of reporters here from other countries. For instance, the standard I-Visa would be changed from the current 5 year duration to only 240 days, equivalent to about 8 months. This greatly limits the ability of foreign journalists to do their jobs and conduct thorough investigative reports, which can often take years of hard work. -acs
Freedom of the Press Foundation. The US government is hiding records from Rümeysa Öztürk's arrest
According to FPF, “a recent court filing suggests the U.S. government is abusing the Freedom of Information Act to hide potentially damning evidence about its arrest of Tufts University student Rümeysa Öztürk.” Öztürk was arrested by ICE in March after co-authoring an op-ed that was critical of the Israeli government. Defendants claim this is not an arrestable offence, and the implication that speaking out against a foreign government is against the law is dangerous to free speech rights in the US. -acs
Columbia Journalism Review. CJR on “the world’s deadliest place for journalists” and how to move forward from here
Columbia Journalism Review and the Simon and June Li Center for Global Journalism spent the summer working with journalists, human rights workers, experts in literature, and academics to come up with solutions to defend journalists still working in Gaza. Israel and Egypt are still barring journalists from entry. According to CPJ, nearly 200 journalists have already been killed in the occupied territory and all media resources have been destroyed. International organizations cannot guarantee safety, therefore, no journalists are making the journey. The following are some of the proposed solutions: sanctions, journalism strike in Western newsrooms until harm is acknowledged, disclaimers about the journalist death toll on publications relating to Gaza, naming those who have been killed and condemning the perpetrators, protect the voices of those still living, send a convoy of international journalists to the border. For a complete list with more information, read above. -acs
RSF. LAPD's unjust action against journalists covering protests in LA
According to RSF, between June 6 and July 11, more than 60 journalists were attacked by police while covering the ICE raids in Los Angeles. A lawsuit brought forward by LA Press Club impressed rules that barred LAPD from using force on journalists. Assaults have increased, however, five more instances occurred on August 8th, prompting the Press Club to file a motion of contempt. -acs
CPJ. Indian police launch two investigations into The Wire over articles published earlier this year
The Indian police in Assam have launched investigations into executives at The Wire based on articles about attacks on tourists in Jammu and Kashmir and the ensuing India-Pakistan conflict. India's CPJ leader rebukes these claims, stating, "By twice initiating investigations under a law currently being legally challenged for its resemblance to a colonial-era sedition law, and defying a Supreme Court ruling, Assam police are misusing the legal system to intimidate journalists.” -acs
Columbia Journalism Review. Cuban journalist, Jose Luis Tan Estrada, stuck in exile
After fleeing Cuba, Jose Luis Tan Estrada has struggled to find a home. He recalls a time when Cuban asylum seekers were welcomed at the US border and were practically granted citizenship after 12 months. As a journalism professor in Cuba, Tan Estrada found it increasingly difficult to teach honest journalism under the new Social Communication Law, stating, “I miss teaching objective, real journalism, far removed from empty rhetoric and propaganda, where the focus is not on the politician as the center of the news, but rather on the details, the essentials, the latest developments.” -acs
RSF. Environmental journalists in Guatemala are at high risk of danger
Journalists in Guatemala face big tasks in reporting with little to no protections, RSF is calling on the country’s president, Bernardo Arévalo, to bring change. A “report by RSF and seven partner organisations, published following an observation mission to Guatemala, revealed that local journalists—especially indigenous women—face daily threats, intimidation and systemic discrimination by local power structures.” -acs
Editor & Publisher. How a lack of coverage leads to bigger cover-ups: the story behind information deserts
The Washington Post famously says, “democracy dies in darkness.” In this case, thats absolutely true. The US is seeing less and less local coverage from small presses due to the decline in funding and readership. Brechner Freedom of Information (FOI) Project at the University of Florida has “found that states with fewer newspapers per capita and financially weak press associations are more likely to have state government agencies that violate public record laws.” -acs
The Guardian. IDF reveal tactic of framing journalists in Gaza as terrorists in order to carry out attacks
A special unit of the Israeli Defense Force was given the assignment of finding Palestinian reporters that it could frame as “Hamas operatives” in order to garner support from allies despite mass killings, per a report from Israeli-Palestinian investigators. According to The Guardian, “the unit’s objective was to gather information that could bolster Israel’s image and shore up diplomatic and military support from key allies, the report said, citing three intelligence sources.” -acs
Euromaidan Press. Ukraine officials release name of Russian military officer who tortured journalist Viktoria Roshchyna
Ukrainian officials have announced that it was Russian officer, Alexander Shtuda, who facilitated the brutal torture of journalist Viktoria Roshchyna that ultimately led to her death in 2024. He is being charged for torture and murder by Ukraine’s Prosecutor General. -acs
Committee to Protect Journalists. The "death of truth" in Gaza could be near
According to CPJ, the organization joined 15 other media and human rights groups in a letter demanding an end to the forced starvation and targeted killings of journalists in Gaza by Israel. Organizers fear that if the situation in Palestine is not resolved immediately, it could mean the “death of truth” in Gaza, as foreign journalists are still not allowed in the territory. -acs
World Organisation Against Torture. Mada Masr co-founder and journalist, Lina Attalah, facing trial for publishing “false news”
Lina Attalah faces another charge from the Egyptian government for publishing stories it deems "false." She was initially arrested in May 2020 for filming without a permit during an interview outside Tora Prison Complex. Now, she's on trial for a piece on poor detention conditions and human rights abuses in Badr 3 Prison, including a leaked letter attributed to former Alexandria Deputy Governor Hassan El-Borens, which leaders claim is fabricated. -acs
The Hill. Russian journalist sentenced to twelve years in prison for “extremism”
Olga Komleva was found guilty for extremism after being arrested in March 2024. She was also charged for spreading false information about the Russian military, and for working at Putin critic, Alexei Navalny’s, Foundation for Fighting Corruption. -acs
Iowa Capital Dispatch. US higher education facing major attacks on free speech College campuses, historically centers of student action and protest, are facing increased scrutiny regarding lesson plans and constitutional rights, largely due to the implementation of "educational gag orders.” Human rights group “PEN America released a report mapping where laws have been introduced and passed limiting what can be discussed in classrooms and other restrictions on university practices.” The results are more stark than previously imagined. -acs
Freedom of the Press Foundation. Google hides search results related to tech executive Maury Blackman
Following Jack Poulson's exposé on Maury Blackman's domestic violence, published on Freedom of the Press in 2024, the tech CEO resigned from Premise Data Corp. and subsequently sued Poulson. Despite Blackman's efforts, the lawsuit failed. Now, in 2025, Blackman appears to be using a Google loophole to salvage his reputation, or at least, hide his nefarious past. -acs
NYT. The Paramount-Skydance merger is more intricate than we thought
Last week, the FTC approved a multi-billion dollar merger between mass media companies Paramount and Skydance. While a win for shareholders, the inner workings of this deal are more troubling than initially understood. For instance, to move forward, "the merged company cannot refuse to place ads on websites for political reasons," raising concerns about the merger's true intentions. -acs
Unesco. Audrey Azoulay calls for formal investigation into death of journalist Moamen Abu AlOuf
Moamen Abu AlOuf is one of at least 56 journalists killed while working in Palestine since October 2023. He died in June 2025 while covering rescue efforts by medical teams in the Al-Tuffah neighborhood of Gaza City following an airstrike; he was hit by tank artillery fire, which also killed three paramedics. UNESCO's director says this killing, along with the 55 others since 2023, violates UN Security Council Resolution 2222, which ensures journalist protection during armed conflicts. -acs
LatAm Journalism Review. Venezuelan journalist held for 100 days without trial
Press unions in Venezuela, including the National Union of Press Workers (SNTP), are demanding the immediate release of journalist Nakary Mena Ramos who has spent 100 days in detention without a trial as of July 17, 2025. Ramos, the only woman among 20 imprisoned journalists, faces charges of inciting hatred and spreading false information related to a report on insecurity and was arrested alongside her husband, videographer Gianni González. -acs
AP. Exile or prison: the state of reporting in El Salvador
El Salvador’s president, Nayib Bukele, describes himself as “the world’s coolest dictator” hailing bitcoin, pandering to the USA’s right wing, and arresting 1% of his own population. Meanwhile, journalists, and academics at large, are fleeing the country with the understanding that staying put means certain danger. -acs
CJR. FCC approves Skydance-Paramount merger, prompting concern for freedom of speech
Paramount's $16 million settlement with Trump has faced criticism for undermining editorial independence and setting a dangerous precedent. The Freedom of the Press Foundation argues the settlement was tied to regulatory approval for Paramount's merger with Skydance Media, raising concerns about political pressure and corporate influence. -acs
Poynter. Trump Sues Wall Street Journal over Epstein-Trump Piece
In a familiar series-of-events, Trump sues Rupert Murdoch’s publication for running a piece regarding a lewd birthday card that the president wrote convicted sex-offender Jeffrey Epstein. This brings forth a bigger problem for journalists: is American media intimidation the new norm? -acs
RSF. Filipino Radio Host Murdered in Bislig city
Erwin “Boy Pana” Segovia was shot in the head while riding his motorcycle on July 21, 2025. Famous for his radio show Diritsahan!, he often discussed politics and social issues. Segovia is the fifth radio journalist killed in the Philippines since June 2022. -acs
Nieman Lab. Nieman’s legacy and threats against the free press
“No soil, Kostyuchenko says, is immune to the growth of fascism.” The Neiman Lab examines the challenges investigative reporters face at home and abroad, noting that the US is ‘“is experiencing its first significant and prolonged decline in press freedom in modern history.”’ -acs
Editor & Publisher. AFP says their last Gaza journalists will die if conditions do not improve
AFP wants to extract their journalists from Gaza, but cannot do so without Israel’s permission. Meanwhile, nearly no aid has entered the region as many face severe malnutrition. -acs
NPR. Senate approves $9 Billion recision from public broadcasting
This decision will have a greater impact than just closure of local stations, it will affect weather warnings and other emergency broadcasts in rural areas potentially putting these communities at high risk for tragedy. Republicans, like senator Ted Cruz, defend their votes by claiming public broadcasting '"has long been overtaken by partisan activists,”’ and our tax dollars should not be used to fund such networks. -acs
The Washington Post. Academic freedom and speech slashed at Texas colleges, what comes next?
A new loss for Constitutional rights has landed in Texas. Governor Greg Abbott has helped sign away the rights of First Amendment users on public college and university campuses. What exactly does this include? The prevention of loosely defined "expressive activity" that "intimidates others" or "interferes" with an employee’s duties, and most importantly, "any expressive activity between 10 p.m. and 8 a.m." This is so loosely defined that any public political expression conducted between these hours is punishable by sanctions. -acs
Poynter. Foreign-born journalists censor themselves to protect against changes in US policy
Foreign journalists, drawn to the US for its press freedom, now face scrutiny and deportation threats. According to the Poynter Institute, "some non-citizen journalists working in the U.S. have started to censor themselves, wiping their social media accounts and avoiding making statements that could be construed as criticism of the administration." -acs
International Press Institute. Press freedom groups condemn imprisonment of Georgian journalist Mzia Amaglobeli
The Georgian Dream party has harshly cracked down on journalists since taking power, imprisoning, harassing, beating, detaining, smearing, and fining the free press. Mzia Amaglobeli, a recent target of these attacks, is regarded by the IPI as "a highly respected, veteran journalist known for her commitment to journalistic ethics and independence." -acb
Freedom of the Press Foundation. NJ reporters face unconstitutional charges for refusing to delete their coverage
Two Redbank, NJ journalists face prosecution for refusing to remove a previously publish police blotting from a news website. This comes as yet another attack on the free press after similar cases in California, Alabama, and Mississippi occurred in the past two years. Freedom of the Press points out the frivolity of this case, noting that "the Supreme Court has held over and over that journalists are entitled to publish truthful information they lawfully obtain, in cases dealing with matters as sensitive as closed juvenile court proceedings and identities of rape victims." -acb
Columbia Journalism Review. How Local Reporters navigate threats to their livelihood
Steven Monacelli is no stranger to death threats or doxxing. Amanda Moore has stalkers. Ever since they began their coverage of far-right extremism, harassment has closely followed, and it has never gotten easier to process. Because extremist groups are more locally potent, staying nearby to cover them is essential, but safety is not guaranteed. -acb
PEN America. Threats against Pulitzer-Winning editorial cartoonist reflect ongoing hostility on the free press
According to PEN America ‘“the threats against Adam Zyglis are a chilling attempt to intimidate an editorial cartoonist for doing his job,” in a time where free press is already under high alert. -acb
According to data released by Muck Rack and Rebuild Local News one-third of US counties have less than one full-time journalist. Even more populated counties have the equivalent of about 8.2, revealing a ginormous shortage in local reporting in the United States. -acb
Columbia Journalism Review. Paramount pays Trump $16 million over 60 Minutes lawsuit
Paramount bends its knee to Trump admin lawsuit, becoming the second to do so in the last year after ABC's capitulation. This marks the beginning to the end of big-media standing up against censorship, with CJR claiming "'they’d be mistaken to believe appeasing Trump today will stop his attacks in the future."' -acs
KETV. Even after bond agreement, Spanish-language journalist remains detained in Federal custody
According to press in Atlanta, "A week after an immigration judge granted him bond, [Mario Guevara] a Spanish-language journalist who was arrested while covering a protest last month is still in federal custody." Despite his family's ability to pay the $7500 bond and Guevara authorization to work in the United States, his release has been denied. Instead, ICE has moved him to three different jails in the past few weeks to withhold release. -acs
EPA employees [were placed] on paid leave “through July 17 pending an administrative investigation" due to their disagreement with the environmental goals and budget cuts of the current administration. This comes after the addition of Trump's executive order dubbed “Restoring Freedom of Speech and Ending Federal Censorship,” which states that “government censorship of speech is intolerable in a free society.” Yet, employees of the EPA are facing punishment for this very act. -acs
The New York Times. I.R.S. maintains that houses of worship who endorse politicians can stay tax exempt
At a time when free speech at media agencies is scrutinized for political alignment, another major influence remains untouched by Washington. Houses of worship are now allowed to maintain their non-profit, tax-exempt status while endorsing candidates. After a years-long battle for this right, "the I.R.S. agreed to a narrower carveout — one that experts in nonprofit law said might sharply increase politicking in churches, even though it mainly seemed to formalize what already seemed to be the agency’s unspoken policy." -acs
Axios. Press Club alleges LAPD targeted journalists in demonstrations
"Being a journalist in Los Angeles is now a dangerous profession." So says the opening sentence of a lawsuit brought by the LA Press against Los Angeles and LAPD in US District Court. -acs
Guardian. Saudi journalist tweeted against the government, and was executed
The death of Turki al-Jasser was the first high-profile killing of a journalist since the 2018 murder of Jamal Khashoggi. -gjw
Index on Censorship. Exiled Afghan journalist urges UK to provide protection to those endangered for telling the truth
Offers for asylum have greatly diminished in the Western world as truthful journalism grows both more important and dangerous. Journalist Zahra Joya deems this "a clear violation of international human rights laws, which recognise freedom of expression as one of the foundations of a just and democratic society." -acs
Politico. Journalists in Gaza starve as extended blockade has completely exhausted resources
"Every day, [journalists] juggle survival and reporting — and both are slipping." Committee to Protect Journalists covers the battle for local coverage and basic necessities in Gaza as war booms on. -acs
RSF members Thibaut Bruttin, and Binod Dhungel urge Nepal's government to prioritize "protecting journalists, supporting independent outlets and guaranteeing access to information of public interest." This comes as a part of larger effort to ensure citizens’ rights to trustworthy information. -acs
"Reliable information about wars and conflicts is essential for the wellbeing of local populations and is necessary to enlighten the world on the forces behind wars and the toll on civilians." Nick Turse highlights the impact that "news graveyards" have on the course of history, cultural lagacy, and vulnerable populations. -acs
Amnesty Intl. Azerbaijani authorities crack down on Abzas Media, sentencing seven Journalists to serve time in prison
A member of the Council of Europe since 2001, Azerbaijan has the highest number of imprisoned media workers in the group, with at least 25 journalists currently imprisoned. The sentencing of Abzas Meida members comes as no shock, highlighting a greater issue on the safety of journalists and their right to report the truth. -acs
NPR. Amidst widespread government layoffs, Voice of America Radio does not escape unscathed
In an era where objective news dwindles, budget cuts take public radio to the chopping block. "About 1,400 jobs, or 85% of positions, are being cut at the U.S. Agency for Global Media" this includes valuable cultural programming and news coverage by Voice of America, now all but gutted by these changes. -acs
RSF. The war in Iran has already killed journalists, now the RSF calls for their safety and protection
Rather than liberate journalists, Israel’s strikes reinforced the Iranian regime’s narrative that those loyal to the regime are victims and reporters critical of the authorities are enemies, dangerously escalating the price of free speech. -acs
PEN America. Writers organizations condemn attack on journalists by LA police during protests against ICE raids
First Amendment Coalition, Freedom of the Press Foundation, and Los Angeles Press Club condemned attacks on journalists covering immigration protests in the Los Angeles area. -gjw
He did not accuse any politician of impeding enforcement, and when asked about Bass specifically, said that he doesn’t believe “she’s crossed the line yet. -gjw
The Wrap. NYT Publisher Blasts Trump for Anti-Media Rhetoric, Says Free Press Is ‘Under Direct Attack’
“Effectively, in his first term, President Trump exported his anti-press rhetoric to illiberal leaders abroad. Those leaders took that rhetoric as permission to develop and implement an aggressive new playbook for cracking down on journalists.” -A.G. Sulzberger
Columbia Journalism Review. Rural and Tribal Public Radio Stations Brace for Funding Cuts
President Donald Trump’s executive order could wipe out funding appropriated through 2026 and 2027, endangering stations that already operate on razor-thin margins. “If CPB funding disappears, I don’t know how we’d survive,” said Cindy Sweat, KSTK’s general manager. -acb
Current. White House proposes eliminating CPB’s funding in FY26 budget plan
“The recommended funding levels result from a rigorous, line-by-line review of FY 2025 spending, which was found to be laden with spending contrary to the needs of ordinary working Americans and tilted toward funding niche non-governmental organizations and institutions of higher education committed to radical gender and climate ideologies antithetical to the American way of life.” quotes Russell Vought -Director, White House Office of Management and Budget
The Conversation (US). The attack on public broadcasting is part of a growing threat to press freedom and democracy
In the grab to reclaim power from the people, authoritarians and the oligarchs who support them recoil from criticism and dissent, demanding that all people support government positions regardless of the rationality of their claims. - Lorry-Ann Austin -Assistant Professor, Social Work and Human Services, Thompson Rivers University
Variety. Democratic Senators Urge Paramount’s Shari Redstone to Fight Trump’s ‘Bogus’ Lawsuit
“This lawsuit is an attack on the United States Constitution and the First Amendment. It has absolutely no merit and it cannot stand,” the senators wrote in the letter, dated May 7. -acb
The Guardian. Journalist taking Trump administration to court for shutdown of VOA
The lawsuit, backed by Reporters Without Borders and four unions, argues the Trump administration, through the actions of the defendants, USAGM, and the government’s special adviser Kari Lake, are attempting to unlawfully dismantle VOA’s operations because they deem it contrary to the government’s agenda.
NiemanLab. Gannett “adapting to the evolving regulatory environment” by removing DEI information from website
Company removes all mention of DEI. “While we will no longer publish workforce demographic metrics or sustainability and inclusion reports, Gannett is deeply committed to our ethical business model,” Lark-Marie Antón, Gannett’s chief communications officer said. -acb
Access Now. UPDATE: World Press Freedom Day
Highlighting some of the most persistent threats to journalism: the ongoing rise of spyware, persistent attacks on encryption, increased disinformation, and a spate of new laws to enacting to silencing of journalists. -acb
AP. Nicaragua is quitting the UNESCO agency over a press freedom award to La Prensa.
A jury of media professionals recommended Nicaragua’s La Prensa for the 2025 award. The newspaper, founded in 1926, “has made courageous efforts to report the truth to the people of Nicaragua.” -acb
Nieman Lab. Silence and belt-tightening: Environmental Journalism under threat
Society of Environmental Journalists’ annual conference update: Gone are the major sponsors under the Biden Administration: the Chan-Zuckerberg Initiative, Deloitte, The Ocean Conservancy, and US government experts. -acb
CPJ. Palestinian reporters Hossam Shabat & Mohammed Mansour killed by IDF
Committee to Protect Journalists questions whether they were deliberately targeted by Israeli forces (journalists are protected under the Geneva Conventions, of which Israel is a signatory). -gjw
CPJ. Pakistan authorities detain independent journalist Farhan Mallick in Karachi
Mallick, founder of the independent online media platform Raftar, was arrested on accusations of running “several programs against the security establishment.” -gjw
RSF. Trump sued in effort to restore VOA
Reporters Without Borders joined VOA employees and their unions in filing a legal complaint against the US Agency for Global Media, the federal agency that oversees VOA, as well as USAGM Senior Advisor Kari Lake and Acting CEO Victor Morales. -gjw
ICIJ. Trump’s cuts threaten reporters with return to repressive regimes
Reporters for Radio Free Asia, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty and Voice of America could be forced to return to repressive countries where their lives or livelihoods are at risk following an executive order from Mr. Trump last week.
-gjw
WP. Trump is dismantling the free press. We need to stop him.
Dana Milbank’s forceful case for taking direct action against Trump’s broad crackdown on civil liberties. - gjw
Citizen Lab, Munk School, U-Toronto. Banned Books: Analysis of Censorship on Amazon.com
In a deeply researched study, University of Toronto researchers found 17,050 products that Amazon restricted from being shipped to at least one world region. Heaviest censorship involved wifi products and LGBT materials; the most restricted destinations were UAE, Saudia Arabia; other Mid-East countries. - gjw
CJR. The Last Days at Voice of America
VOA reporter Liam Scott documents the end of Voice of America. - gjw
Stet News. Exclusive: Gannett fires Post editorial page editor
Backlash over cartoon viewed as antisemitic leads to Tony Doris’ removal at The Palm Beach Post. - ab
Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). Media21 outlet shuttered, 4 journalists arrested in Iraq
Security forces closed the outlet’s office in Sulaymaniyah on March 1, saying it lacked a license, confiscated several computers, and ordered staff not to return to work, according to two sources who spoke to CPJ on condition of anonymity. - ab
IFJ. Journalist arrested in Zimbabwe, charged with inciting violence
Journalist Blessed Mhlanga was charged for publishing an interview with member of the former ruling party. - gjw
Mondaq. Press Freedom In India: Still ranks low, according to World Press Freedom report for 2024
The world’s largest democracy is listed behind Pakistan and Sri Lanka according to a report published by Reporters Without Borders. India has taken pride in its democratic ideals: The Constitution of India guarantees freedom of speech and expression, which include freedom of press. - dg
Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). UPDATE: Vietnamese journalist Truong Huy San sentenced to 30 months in prison
Hanoi’s People’s Court sentenced Vietnamese journalist Truong Huy San to 30 months in prison on Thursday under a criminal provision that bars “abusing democratic freedoms to infringe on the interests of the State.” - ab
The New York Times. Washington Post opinion editor resigns after owner Jeff Bezos reduces permissible viewpoints
Owner Jeff Bezos has stated that The Washington Post opinion page would promote “personal liberties and free markets,” and decreed that no opposing viewpoints would be allowed. David Shipley, opinion page editor, left his roll after the announcement. The decision to reduce the viewpoints of the opinion pages is regarded as a startling retreat from its historical approach to political and economic content. - dg
Reuters. British journalist missing in Brazil
British journalist who was declared missing a fortnight ago after being seen boarding a bus in Sao Paulo is believed to have “voluntarily disappeared,” Brazilian authorities say. - ab
The Guardian. ‘We have nothing now’: Myanmar’s exiled media face existential crisis after Trump severs aid
“The horrible USAid, the horrible things that they’re spending money on,” Trump said of his shock move to freeze funds to the United States Agency for Development. “It’s got to be kickbacks.” But in Mae Sot, home to about 300 exiled journalists from Myanmar, USAid money is spent supporting independent journalism. - ab
Politico. AP sues Trump officials after being barred from some White House events
Trump administration bars news sites from various locations. AP fights back. - ab
Harvard Kennedy School. Oligarchy in the open: What happens now as the U.S. is forced to confront its plutocracy problem?
Few will be surprised to learn that political outcomes overwhelmingly favor very wealthy people, corporations, and business groups. Recent studies have shown that the influence of ordinary American citizens was at a “non-significant, near-zero level, and the presidential campaign witnessed record support by billionaires. Harvard Kennedy School Professor Archon Fung and Harvard Law School Professor Larry Lessig write that 2024 could be a turning point that will force Americans to confront the country’s trend toward rule by the wealthy. - dg
Persuasion. A New Threat to the Freedom of the Press
President Trump and many of his allies have either explicitly or implicitly called for the Supreme Court to overturn Sullivan, with Trump in 2016 saying he wanted to “open up” libel laws. - ab
Mother Jones. Centralized media ownership continues to worsen in recent decades
In 1983, journalists reported on what came to be called “media monopolies” in newspapers, radio, and television. Today, even smaller numbers of media companies control news reporting and distribution. Media operations have fewer options than ever regarding their independence, as hedge funds and private investment companies continue to buy up media they believe can be profitable, with little care concerning the reliability of journalism. - dg
CJR. NPR and PBS face a moment of truth
FCC Chair Brendan Carr is investigating NPR and PBS for possible commercial violations, raising concerns about public media funding. - jy
European Federation of Journalists. EFJ stands in solidarity with American journalists against Trump administration
The EFJ has shown support for American journalists targeted by the Trump administration, denouncing government actions against press freedom, labor rights, and migrant protections, while calling for worldwide solidarity in safeguarding journalism. - jy
Guardian. Mississippi judge orders removal of editorial in violation of First Amendment
A judge in Mississippi directed a newspaper to retract an editorial that criticized local officials, drawing criticism from press freedom advocates who argue the ruling violates First Amendment protections. - jy
Editor & Publisher. What happens when a city silences a newspaper? An inside look at the Clarksdale censorship case
The removal of an editorial by The Clarksdale Press Register raises major First Amendment concerns, threatening local journalism nationwide. - jy
CPJ. Vietnamese journalist Truong Huy San indicted for ‘abusing democratic freedoms’
Truong Huy San has been charged under Article 331 for allegedly "abusing democratic freedoms" through his Facebook posts, facing a potential seven year prison sentence. - jy
CPJ. Egypt blocks independent media outlet Zawia3 over investigative reporting
Egyptian authorities shut down Zawia3, a Brussels-based outlet, in a move condemned by the CPJ as part of the ongoing crackdown on independent journalism. - jy
GIJN. The USAID Crisis and Funding the Future of Independent Media
The Trump administration's freeze on USAID funding has endangered global independent media, increasing risks for journalists, and forcing newsrooms to seek new funding. - jy
CBS News. 2024 was deadliest year for journalists with 124 reporters killed, Committee to Protect Journalists says
In 2024, 124 journalists and media workers were killed worldwide, primarily Palestinians in the Israel-Hamas war, with others dying in Sudan, Pakistan, Mexico, and Syria. - jy
BBC. Journalist's murder highlights risks of reporting in small-town India
Indian journalist Mukesh Chandrakar was murdered after investigating corruption in Chhattisgarh, highlighting the dangers faced by reporters in conflict zones. - jy
Dallas Morning News. UT-Dallas in fight over student press
Internal conflicts between students and administrators at the University of Texas at Dallas have sparked debates over student media oversight and editorial freedom. - jy
Reuters. Azerbaijan, under fire over press freedom, arrests two more journalists
Azerbaijan has arrested two more journalists on smuggling charges amid ongoing crackdowns on the press, drawing further Western criticism over its human rights record. - jy
KQED. FCC investigates SF radio station for ICE reporting, sparking press freedom fear
The FCC is investigating KCBS for reporting on ICE operations, raising concerns about press freedom and government overreach. - jy
NYT. Soon-Shiong blocks L.A. Times editorial on Trump’s cabinet picks
L.A. Times owner Patrick Soon-Shiong thinks he’s creating balance. Katie Robertson gives inside details of the decline of LAT’s editorial independence.
- gjw
NYT. Trump’s Plan to Crush the Academic Left
Chris Rufo is influencing Trump’s administration to target D.E.I. programs and leftist ideologies in academia through investigations and executive orders. Critics warn these efforts could erode academic freedom and free speech. - jy
Alaska Register. Anchorage Daily News owner refuses to recognize guild, hires union-busting lawyers
Ryan Binkley, the head of the group that owns the Anchorage Daily News, has rejected newsroom workers’ request to voluntarily recognize their union. The employees claim Binkley’s decision hinders efforts to address stagnant wages and improve workplace sustainability. - jy
Guardian. Attacks on press freedom around the world are intensifying
UNESCO. Threats to freedom of press: Violence, disinformation & censorship
WP. This company rates news sites’ credibility. The right wants it stopped.
UN. Freedom of the press under attack worldwide
AP. Man accused of attacking TV reporter, saying ‘This is Trump’s America now’
RFE/RL. U.S. Condemns Tehran Court's 10-Year Sentence For Iranian-American Journalist
Guardian. Italian journalist arrested and held in solitary confinement in Iran
Times of London. Medvedev threatens The Times over coverage of Russian general’s killing
The Independent. Trump’s war on the press is straight out of the Putin playbook
The Independent. LA Times staffers say billionaire owner’s pro-Trump meddling worse than previously reported
Guardian. Trump planning to target progressive non-profits
Bulwark. The Real Scandal of Our Media Tycoons
CNN. ABC News settles defamation suit with Trump for $15 million
The Hill. Trump sues Des Moines Register
BBC. Top Indian fact-checker in court for post calling out hate speech
AP. Journalists anticipate a renewed hostility toward their work under the incoming Trump administration
NYT. Trump and His Picks Threaten More Lawsuits Over Critical Coverage
Jacobin. The Press Is Complicit in America’s Health Care Deaths
NPR. Top 'Washington Post' editor kills article on deputy's departure
News Busters. Censoring the News
RI. X has been blocked in Brazil. Does it matter for journalism?
CNN. Senate GOP blocks bill to protect journalists after Trump opposes it
PBS. Researchers report stunning surge of misogyny after the election
NYT. Soon-Shiong blocks L.A. Times editorial on Trump’s cabinet picks
BBC. Kari Lake to lead Voice of America
NYT. Meet the Florida Billionaire Who Wants to Be a Newspaper Baron
Quillette. Sanitising a Paranoid Crank
Truthout. DeSantis Administration Threatens News Station for Airing Abortion Amendment Ad
Times of London. British-Israeli journalist arrested in Hezbollah-controlled Beirut suburb
Times of Israel. German Reporter Arrested in Lebanon After Giving Live Interview to Israeli TV from Beirut
Local News Initiative. Local News Landscape
Axios. DOJ charges IRGC official in alleged plot to assassinate American journalist
The Paper. Israeli govt boycott of Haaretz part of ‘onslaught on press freedom’
Guardian. China sentences journalist to seven years on spy charges
CBS. Austin Tice, journalist kidnapped in Syria, alive and well, says family
NYT. Cash, Kidnappings and Luxury Resorts: A Formula for Power in Modi’s India
AI. East and So. Africa: Journalists targeted amid ongoing crackdown on media
VOA. Russian journalism archive aims to protect independent voices from media suppression
Guardian. Attacks on press freedom around the world are intensifying, index reveals
Guardian. Ronan Farrow on surveillance spyware: ‘It threatens democracy and freedom
GIJN. How Georgia Is Following a Russian Legal Blueprint to Suppress Independent Journalism
BBC. Police defend investigation into journalist's social media post
BBC. Mozambique social media restricted as runner-up in hiding
BBC. World's longest detained journalist wins rights prize
Aljazeera. Mauritius blocks social media until after election in wiretapping row
CPJ. Journalist stabbed 21 times in Iraqi Kurdistan after reporting on corruption
Independent. More than 100 BBC staff accuse broadcaster of Israel bias in Gaza coverage
CNN. America’s largest newspaper chain, including USA Today, won’t endorse in 2024 presidential race
Al Jazeera. CNN bans conservative commentator after verbal attack on Mehdi Hasan
Guardian. Australia rejects visa application by rightwing US pundit Candace Owens
Guardian. Bezos faces criticism after executives met with Trump on day of Post’s non-endorsement
AP. Two more LA Times editorial board members resign after the paper withholds a Harris endorsement
NPR. Did the 'L.A. Times' and other news outlets pull punches to appease Trump?
Media Freedom Rapid Response/EU. Between 2016 and 2023, 1,333 lawsuits were filed against journalists and media in Croatia
Defense News. Sightline urges India to provide information on arrested reporter
IJNet. Nigerian journalists are under attack amid nationwide protests
Guardian. Judge slaps down Florida effort to ban abortion ad: ‘It’s the first amendment, stupid’
AP. Ex-Las Vegas-area Democratic politician gets at least 28 years in prison for killing reporter
AP. Nevada high court ends casino mogul Steve Wynn’s defamation suit against The Associated Press
The Hill. FCC chair rebukes Trump’s calls to revoke CBS, ABC broadcast licenses
Guardian. Venezuela has cancelled passports of dozens of activists and journalists
The Dissenter. US Journalist Released From Israeli Detention, Barred From Leaving Country
Truthout. Finally Free, Assange Receives a Measure of Justice From the Council of Europe
Truthout. DeSantis Administration Threatens News Station for Airing Abortion Amendment Ad
Times of London. British-Israeli journalist arrested in Hezbollah-controlled Beirut suburb
Times of Israel. German reporter was arrested in Lebanon after giving live interview to Israeli TV from Beirut
AP. Hong Kong court sentences editor to 21 months in jail in a case seen as a barometer of press freedom
AP. A Cambodian reporter who exposed scams charged over online posts
Edited by Alex Smythe, Jenny Young, Damon Gitelman, AC Blaisdell, and Gordon Whiting