In Nepal, journalists face a different type of censorship than what is present in many western countries. While American media outlets may have to worry about the formal and informal restrictions of advertisers, and journalists may self-censor themselves to keep their jobs, media workers in Nepal have to worry about both government restrictions and the threat of violence. They may self-censor themselves to keep their freedom, and even their lives.
After ten years of oppression and violence against journalists during the Nepal Civil War, as well as problems in the past several years, how are members of the Nepali media managing today? How much freedom of expression and information is allowed in this country? Will there be improvements in the future, or will the violence and censorship continue?
Recent History of Violence Against Journalists in Nepal
Even after the recent civil war, also referred to as the Maoist insurgency, there has been violence against journalists in Nepal. In 2009 the first female member of the Nepali media was brutally murdered. Twenty-six year old Uma Singh, who spoke out against oppressive gangs and the United Communist Part of Nepal (UCPN), was stabbed to death. No one was arrested for the murder, and police claimed the attack was family related.
In early 2010 two media entrepreneurs were killed. No one was held accountable for the murders. In addition to these deaths, assaults and death threats continue to be a problem in the country according to a report on the media in Nepal conducted by the two human rights organizations, Article 19 and the Freedom Forum.
Censorship and Self-Censorship in Nepali Media
Nepal has repeatedly been recognized by international human rights organizations and watchdog groups because of problems with censorship and media violence. The Committee to Protect Journalists' Impunity Index of 2009 listed Nepal as eighth of fourteen countries in which journalists are killed and no proper investigations are carried out. The Human Right's Watch 2006 World Report listed Nepal as having the most forced disappearances of any other country. In 2005, according to the International Federation of Journalists, half of all cases of censorship in the world took place in Nepal.
The fear of being arrested, being assaulted, and even being killed does put pressure on journalists to practice self-censorship. To speak out or criticize the government or political parties is potentially a dangerous act. Until members of the media in Nepal are protected, freedom of expression and the free flow of information will be challenged.
Outlook for the Media in Nepal
A new constitution is planned for Nepal in 2011. Until then, present laws make free speech difficult. According to the Article 19 and Freedom Forum report, the Interim Constitution does not meet international standards for freedom of expression. Why? There are several problems:
- The right to free expression is only granted to citizens of Nepal.
- Restrictions to freedom of expression are very broad, justifying censorship in many cases.
- Journalists are required to register with the government in order to practice. This means the government has the power to stop an individual from legally reporting news if desired.
- Broadcasting is regulated by the government as opposed to an independent body.
- Members of the Press Council, which is supposed to deal with censorship complaints and promote free speech, are appointed by the government.
With the efforts of international organizations who are working towards global free speech and press freedom, the Nepali media does have some hope. The more pressure from the global community to respect and protect journalists, the more likely the government of Nepal will allow for more freedom in the media. The more media literate individuals in the world are aware of these problems, the more support the journalists and people of Nepal will have.
References
"Article 19 and Freedom Forum Nepal Submission to the UN Universal Periodic Review." (July 8, 2010, Article 19's Annual Reports)
Sharma, Bhuwan. "Media-Nepal: Self-Censorship Creeping Up After Killings." (Asia Media Forum, GALDU).
"Nepal One Year On: Censorship, Crackdown, and Courage." (International Federation of Journalists, February, 2006).
Brenna Coleman - Brenna is a freelance writer focusing on natural health and beauty. She has written hundreds of articles, helping readers find ways to ...
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