The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has called for the swift release of Mu Dra, a journalist from the Border News Agency, who was recently abducted by Myanmar’s Arakan Army. This plea highlights the ongoing peril faced by reporters in conflict zones, where they are often at risk due to their critical role in providing independent news coverage. Mu Dra, known for her courageous reporting on human rights abuses and violence against marginalized communities in Rakhine State, was taken from her home on September 20 and subsequently interrogated at the Arakan Army’s Intelligence Office. Despite appeals, the group responsible has not yet responded to the CPJ’s request for her release.
Under international humanitarian law, journalists like Mu Dra are entitled to protection akin to civilians in conflict areas. The Geneva Conventions firmly establish this, underscoring the need for all parties in Myanmar’s ongoing civil war to uphold these standards. The situation in Myanmar has become increasingly severe for journalists, with the nation ranking 169th on the Reporters Without Borders World Press Freedom Index, a reflection of the harsh realities, including imprisonment and media bans. More about these conditions can be accessed through JURIST.
The conflict, which intensified after the military coup in 2021, has exacerbated what was already a challenging environment for media workers. CPJ has noted that at least 35 journalists are currently imprisoned in the country. This is compounded by a broader humanitarian crisis fueled by natural disasters and military upheaval. The recent earthquake in March 2025 resulted in significant casualties and was followed by heightened military activity, leading to further civilian suffering.
Efforts to safeguard journalists and advocate for their rights remain vital as they continue to navigate the fraught landscape of Myanmar’s civil unrest. These actions by groups like CPJ not only aim to secure the release of individuals like Mu Dra but also strive to reinforce the importance of a free and fair press in promoting transparency and accountability in conflict zones.