World newspapers call for more media rights in Sri Lanka

The World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers (WAN-IFRA) while condemning intimidation and violence against journalists in Sri Lanka has called on the government to adhere to its Constitution, which recognises freedom of expression as a basic human right.

The Board of the World Association of Newspapers and News Publishers (WAN-IFRA), meeting in Düsseldorf, Germany, on June 7, condemned intimidation and violence against journalists in Sri Lanka and called on the government to adhere to its constitution, which recognises freedom of expression as a basic human right, a statement from the organization said.

It said:“Sri Lankan journalists continue to face routine threats, violence and abductions, despite the end of the conflict in May last year. In the first five months of 2010, journalists have been arrested and imprisoned without charge, and media outlets have been closed and censored. “At least 12 journalists have been killed and scores of others attacked with no one having been convicted in any case.”

© Daily Mirror