Introduction: The Press Freedom Landscape in Southeast Asia
Today, the vast majority of Southeast Asian countries claim to be democracies of one kind or another. Elections are the rule. Constitutions that guarantee fundamental freedoms underpin each nation, or most of them. Yet throughout Southeast Asia, the freedoms associated with the public expression of diverse views and opinions and with the public scrutiny of political and economic power are often abridged if not wholly suppressed. Thus the paradox of contemporary Southeast Asia: while newspapers, magazines, and radio and television programs proliferate alongside websites of all kinds, it can sometimes be very difficult to learn the truth, especially about those in power. Journalists, including editors and publishers, who run afoul of the region’s powerful leaders and political parties can pay a heavy price. Nevertheless, many do take the risk. The advent of the Internet and digital media has opened new freedoms for truth-telling journalists. In this module, we will explore Southeast Asia’s troubling media climate and learn about three activist news organizations that use digital media to “speak truth to power.”
Begin by reading this 2016 report by Akshan de Alwis on press freedom in Southeast Asia. Breaking Down Freedom of Press in Southeast Asia
Now learn about the Southeast Asia Press Alliance: Learn about SEAPA
Read SEAPA's 2017 Report.
Now take some time to explore SEAPA's website.
ASSIGNMENT: First, in an annotated list, identify and give an example of four threats to press freedom in Southeast Asia as discussed in the materials above. Choose your examples from four different Southeast Asian countries. Next, choose one of these examples and write an expanded two-paragraph essay that addresses it in detail.