The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and 24 civil society organizations have issued a plea to newly elected Sri Lankan President Anura Kumara Dissanayake to prioritize press freedom. These groups emphasize the need for robust actions to counter the longstanding issues of violence, intimidation, and legal suppression experienced by journalists in the nation. Their appeal comes amid Sri Lanka’s current position, ranking 150th out of 180 countries in Reporters Without Borders’ 2024 World Press Freedom Index.
In a letter addressed to President Dissanayake, the organizations underscored the necessity of addressing impunity for crimes against journalists. Cases from the 26-year civil war remain unresolved, with high-profile incidents like the murder of journalist Lasantha Wickrematunge in 2009 and the disappearance of cartoonist Prageeth Eknaligoda in 2010 still pending thorough investigation. The coalition has called for investigations adhering to international standards, such as the UN Minnesota Protocol.
The joint letter advocates for the repeal of legislation perceived as repressive, naming the Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and the Online Safety Act. Critics of these laws argue that they have been weaponized against journalists, particularly those from Tamil and Muslim communities. The PTA has been described by Reporters Without Borders as a tool for censorship and intimidation, and the Online Safety Act has been criticized for imposing excessive restrictions on free speech.
Further recommendations include structural reforms like the establishment of a self-regulatory media commission and enhancing the editorial independence of state-funded media outlets. Suggested amendments to the Parliamentary (Powers and Privileges) Act and the Personal Data Protection Act aim to bolster transparency and safeguard journalistic rights.
Célia Mercier, head of RSF’s South Asia Desk, underscored the urgency of implementing these measures, noting that “Sri Lanka is in a worrying situation that calls for urgent actions to ensure journalists can work freely and safely,” according to a statement from RSF. The letter acknowledges President Dissanayake’s manifesto commitments to free media and accountability, but it stresses the immediate need for effective interventions to uphold these principles.
For more detailed information, the original article can be found on JURIST: Civil groups urge Sri Lanka new president to uphold press freedom.