The South Asia Media Solidarity Network (SAMSN) today called on Sri Lanka’s political leaders to ensure accountability, democracy and a free and functioning media are upheld amid the country’s political and economic crisis. As the country marks 100 days of mass uprising in Sri Lanka, the region’s media unions said there is a critical need for regional stability and a return to a functioning democracy reflecting the rights of Sri Lanka’s people.
Pulitzer Prize-winning photojournalist from Indian-administered Kashmir, Sanna Irshad Mattoo, was barred by immigration authorities at the Delhi airport from flying to France. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its affiliate, the Indian Journalists Union (IJU), condemn the unjustified travel ban and urge the Indian authorities to allow journalists to travel safely and freely.
For the last few years, journalists who are the fourth pillar of democracy have found themselves in big trouble. Many lost their lives while on duty during the coronavirus pandemic, but many have not yet received government assistance.