Women Press Freedom Quarterly Report January - April 2024

From Buenos Aires
to Bratislava:
Mapping the Global Siege on Women Journalists

    • Behind Bars: Shackling the Voices of Women in Journalism

      Governments worldwide have discovered a disturbingly effective tool to silence journalists: imprisonment

    • Unjust Imprisonment and the Global Crackdown on Women Journalists

      Jailed Messengers: The Growing Wave of Detentions Targeting Women Reporters

    • Authoritarian Regimes Escalate Transnational Repression Tactics

    • Steep Rise in Deepfakes Targeting Press

    • Impact of Media Layoffs on Independent Journalism: A Closer Look at Recent Industry Developments

    • Slovakia: Surge in Politically Motivated Attacks on Journalists

    • Argentina: Threats Against Women Journalists Escalate Amid Political Shift

    • Russia Escalates Press Attacks

    • Turkiye: Silencing Dissent: Turkiye's Crackdown on Press Intensifies

    • Senegal: Violent Attacks & Arbitrary Detentions Escalate Pre-Election

FORE
WORD

by Inge Snip

Senior Editor,
Women Press Freedom

The landscape for press freedom has grown increasingly hostile, particularly for women and LGBTQI journalists.
In our work, we have seen how authoritarian governments are leveraging laws and brute force to stifle independent journalism. We have tirelessly documented the challenges, threats, and attacks faced by women and LGBTQI journalists, across the globe. Our team has been gathering first-hand accounts and meticulously recording incidents to provide a comprehensive overview of the current situation.

This report, the culmination of months of dedicated work by our team, captures the essence of these challenges, focusing on key regions and trends that highlight the critical need for global advocacy and protective measures. Our mission has never been more urgent as we face a world where silencing the press is becoming an ever-more sophisticated and pervasive strategy.

Russia's foreign agent law has set a dangerous precedent, inspiring similar legislative tactics in countries like Georgia, Turkiye, Serbia, Bosnia, and Hungary. We have documented how this law has been weaponized to label independent journalists and media outlets as foreign agents, subjecting them to intense scrutiny, legal challenges, and public stigmatization. This tactic was notably evident in the case of Russian-American journalist Alsu Kurmasheva, who has been unjustly detained under the guise of this law. These countries are adopting similar measures, using the law as a tool to suppress critical voices and control narratives under the guise of protecting national security.

In Turkiye, the resurgence in legal harassment post-2023 elections has been particularly troubling. Journalists face detentions and prosecutions under anti-terrorism laws. The recent detention of Kurdish journalist Safiye Alağaş highlights the use of legal mechanisms to intimidate and silence the press. These incidents underscore a broader trend where authoritarian regimes employ legal and extralegal measures to stifle independent journalism and suppress dissent.

As the world becomes increasingly divided, the role of independent journalism in holding power to account and informing the public becomes ever more vital. It is imperative that governments, civil society, and the international community work together to safeguard the freedom of the press and protect journalists from the growing tide of legal harassment and repression.

Thank you for your continued support in this crucial fight.

INTRODUCTION

Select the type of press violation to view the main violators by country and numbers of cases respectively

Our data for the first quarter of 2024 reveals a troubling escalation in detentions and imprisonments of journalists, with a notable rise in the targeting of women and LGBTQI journalists. This report documents the following key findings:

Main Violations and Violators of Q1 2024

IN MEMORIAM

Our hearts go out to the friends, family, and colleagues of the killed journalists
in 2024. Three Palestinian women journalists were killed by Israel in airstrikes on Gaza. In Pakistan, Tahira Nosheen Rana, a print journalist from Punjab, was found dead, brutally tortured, on March 11 in Sohawa, Jhelum.

We demand an immediate and transparent investigation into these killings and call on authorities to fully support such efforts. We stress that impunity begets violence, and the ongoing threats and violations against the press by individuals and states are appalling. It is high time for the international community to step in and ensure that the rights of journalists are protected.

Since October 7, 15 Palestinian women journalists were killed. Their deaths highlight the extreme dangers faced by journalists in conflict zones. 

  • On January 9, 2024, Hiba al-Abadla, a correspondent for Al Mayadeen, was killed along with her daughter Judy in an Israeli airstrike that targeted their home in Khan Younis.

  • Ala'a Hassan Al-Hams, a journalist with the local Sanad News Agency, and her unborn child were killed, along with the remaining members of her family by an Israeli airstrike on Rafah on February 12, 2024. Al-Hams had already endured unimaginable loss the previous month when an Israeli strike killed 11 members of her family and left her with a spinal fracture.

  • Angham Ahmed Adwan, a journalist associated with Libya's February Channel, was killed by an Israeli airstrike on her home in the Gaza Strip. Adwan had recently returned to Gaza after working in various institutions and media channels in Libya.

  • Tahira Nosheen Rana, a print journalist from Punjab, was tragically found dead on March 11 in Sohawa, Jhelum. She was brutally tortured, including multiple stab wounds and acid burns, before her death. Rana's fearless reporting had involved several criminal cases and exposed systemic abuse, leading to significant threats against her life. Despite seeking protection from authorities and revealing in interviews the dangers she faced, including threats from her own family and husband, her courageous journalism ultimately cost her life.

BEHIND BARS

Governments worldwide have discovered a disturbingly effective tool to silence journalists: imprisonment. 

When journalists are silenced behind bars, it constitutes a severe form of censorship, undermining the very principles of press freedom. Our documentation reveals a growing global trend that highlights the increasing dangers journalists face, underscoring the urgent need to protect their ability to report freely and without fear. As the number of detained journalists continues to climb, the threat to free speech and democracy escalates globally. We must not ignore the significance of these imprisonments, as they starkly illustrate the perils journalists encounter in their pursuit of truth and accountability.

Our data shows that imprisonment is becoming a widespread tactic, not only in anti-democratic regimes but also within democracies.

Shackling the Voices of Women in Journalism

In the first quarter of 2024, the unjust imprisonment of three women journalists — Shin Daewe in Myanmar, Nasrin Hassani in Iran, and Parisa Salehi, also in Iran — underscores a disturbing trend of using fabricated charges to silence dissent. These cases demonstrate the extreme lengths to which repressive regimes will go to punish and suppress journalists who dare to report the truth and challenge the status quo. The shift from mere detention to long-term incarceration signals a troubling escalation aimed at permanently stifling their voices and discouraging journalistic integrity and bravery.

Adding to this alarming trend is the noticeable rise in detentions of women journalists worldwide, a development that poses a significant threat to media freedom globally. In the initial quarter of 2024, countries like Russia and Turkiye have seen an alarming increase in detentions. In Russia, the aftermath of Navalny's death and protests against the nation's military actions in Ukraine have led to a surge in the detention of journalists. Turkiye has reverted to pre-2023 election year levels of legal harassment under the guise of anti-terrorism operations.

This surge in detentions highlights a worrying pattern where authoritarian regimes use legal and extralegal measures to intimidate and silence journalists. The rise in detentions not only reflects a growing intolerance for dissent but also serves as a stark warning to those who continue to fight for press freedom; and underscores the urgent need for robust international advocacy and protection mechanisms to safeguard journalists and uphold the principles of free and independent media.

Detention refers to the initial phase where journalists are held by authorities without formal charges, often under pretextual or ambiguous suspicions. 

Pre-trial detention occurs when journalists are held while awaiting trial, frequently without the possibility of bail, thus prolonging their unjust confinement. 

Sentenced to prison denotes journalists who have been tried, found guilty, and given a prison term. These sentences are often accompanied by additional punitive measures, such as travel bans and prohibitions from practicing journalism.

Photo Credit: Stephen Lam

Unjust Imprisonment and the
Global Crackdown on Women Journalists

In the first quarter of 2024, three women journalists have been unjustly imprisoned, reflecting a broader pattern of silencing dissent through fabricated charges.
Shin Daewe in Myanmar, Nasrin Hassani in Iran, and Parisa Salehi, also in Iran, have all been sentenced and found guilty under spurious accusations designed to suppress their vital work. These cases illustrate the extreme lengths to which repressive regimes will go to punish and silence journalists who dare to challenge the status quo and report the truth, demonstrating a troubling escalation from detention to long-term incarceration aimed at stifling their voices permanently.

  • On January 10, 2024, Shin Daewe, a 50-year-old journalist and documentary filmmaker, was sentenced to life by a military court inside the notorious Insein prison near Yangon. Daewe had been arrested by the police on October 15, 2023, for possessing an aerial drone, which is prohibited in Myanmar despite being commonly used by journalists. She faced charges under Myanmar's stringent Counterterrorism Law of 2014, a law that has been manipulated by the junta to suppress dissent. Accused of "financing and abetting terrorism," Daewe received the harshest penalty, consistent with the practices of the courts under junta control

  • On February 4, 2024, Nasrin Hassani, a journalist living in Bojnurd, expressed that her upcoming seven-month prison term seemed minor when compared to the sacrifices endured during the 2022 protests advocating for freedom and democracy. Hassani had been arrested in September 2022 for her journalistic endeavors, notably reporting on significant events like the protests triggered by Mahsa Amini's untimely death while in custody of the morality police. Although facing charges back then, she was subsequently granted bail.

  • On April 22, Parisa Salehi revealed on social media that she was instructed to report to the 7th Branch of Karaj Execution of Sentences within five days to start serving her sentence. Initially sentenced in February to one year in prison, Salehi also faced a two-year travel ban, a two-year prohibition from online activities, and two years of exile to Zanjan for charges of "propaganda against the Islamic Republic." Despite her prison term being reduced to 5 months on appeal, the additional penalties remained unchanged.

JAILED MESSENGERS

The Growing Wave of Detentions Targeting Women Reporters

In the first of 2024, Women Press Freedom noted a troubling rise in the number of detentions of women journalists worldwide. Russia and Turkiye were particularly notable, exhibiting an alarming frequency of such incidents. Russia experienced a dramatic increase in detentions in the aftermath of Navalny's death and amid protests against the nation's military engagement in Ukraine, notably involving the mothers of soldiers. Meanwhile, Turkiye has returned to pre-2023 election year levels of legal harassment, often justified under the guise of anti-terrorism operations. In the United States, women student journalists faced considerable challenges during student protests.

Click on dropdown menu to compare the number of detentions across years/countries

January: The crackdown began with the detention of 11 journalists in Kyrgyzstan and Moldovan journalists in Transnistria, reflecting the volatile environments in post-Soviet states. Similarly, Russian security forces targeted Crimean Tatar journalist Zera Bekirova, while Turkish authorities detained Kurdish journalist Safiye Alağaş, highlighting the ethnic and political tensions influencing media suppression.

February: saw further detentions in Russia following Alexei Navalny's death, with journalists detained during memorials across various cities. This indicates the Russian state's continued intolerance towards dissent and independent reporting. Additionally, journalists faced violence and detentions in Senegal, Nigeria, and Turkiye, showing a broader, international pattern of intimidation and suppression.

March: continued this trend with the detention and assault of journalists in Russia, Turkiye, Palestine, and Crimea. The detentions during the Nowruz celebration in Istanbul and the raids on Palestinian journalists' homes emphasize the risks faced by those reporting on cultural and political events.

April: witnessed further crackdowns during protests in Turkiye, highlighting the Turkish state's aggressive stance against Kurdish media and LGBTQI+ community coverage. The detentions of journalists at a Council of Europe conference in Ukraine and various incidents in Venezuela, Cuba, and the United States reflect a global escalation of threats to press freedom.

Authoritarian Regimes Escalate

TRANSNATIONAL REPRESSIONS

Transnational repression is tactics employed by authoritarian regimes to silence dissent and control narratives beyond their national borders. These tactics target dissidents, activists, journalists, and others who have fled their home countries seeking safety and the freedom to express their views. Methods used in transnational repression include surveillance, threats, harassment, legal action, and sometimes even violence, such as abductions and assassinations.

From January to April 2024, Women Press Freedom documented 27 cases of transnational repression tactics aimed at silencing women journalists. This alarming rise is stark compared to the 19 cases documented throughout the entire year of 2023.

25 journalists living in Europe were targets of persecution, and two journalists in the United States were also targeted.

These violations were committed by Russia, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Iran, Turkiye, and Venezuela — nations notorious for their repressive stance on press freedom. These countries exhibit authoritarian governance, weakened democratic institutions, state-controlled media, and systematic repression of journalists. Now, they are intensifying efforts to persecute the free press by harassing and intimidating journalists who have fled their homelands for safety. These countries have used a variety of tactics, including legal harassment, threats, intimidation, and arbitrary denial of access, to curb independent journalism and suppress dissenting voices abroad.

Perpetrators of Transnational Repressions

  • Russia emerges as the most prolific perpetrator of transnational repression against women journalists, responsible for 20 of WPF’s documented cases. The Kremlin employs a range of strategies to target journalists, particularly Russian exiles, beyond its borders:

    • Legal Harassment: Journalists like Anastasiya Zhvik, Ekaterina Fomina, and Maria Menshikova face legal charges and criminal investigations for their reporting on sensitive topics, such as war crimes and government corruption.

    • Foreign Agent Designations: Journalists including Anna Narinskaya and Asya Kazantseva have been labeled as "foreign agents," a designation used to stigmatize and marginalize them.

    • Arrest Warrants: Russia has issued arrest warrants for numerous journalists, such as Veronika Belotserkovskaya and Marina Ovsyannikova, as part of its crackdown on dissent.

    • Sanctions and Bans: Entry bans and personal sanctions have been imposed on journalists like Ellen Nakshima and others, further restricting their freedom and ability to work.

  • Azerbaijan is another significant perpetrator of transnational repression. Journalists such as Aytan Farhadova and Sevinj Osmanqizi face continuous harassment, surveillance, and threats from Azerbaijani security services, even while living in exile. This is part of a broader strategy to intimidate and silence critics of the Azerbaijani regime.

  • Belarus, under the leadership of Alexander Lukashenko, has also engaged in transnational repression. Exiled journalist Hanna Liubakova, along with other dissidents, faces criminal charges as part of a crackdown on those who oppose the Lukashenko regime.

  • The failed coup attempt in 2016, triggered a repressive media crackdown in Turkiye, causing more journalists to flee and the harassment of these journalists abroad. Exiled Turkish journalist Perihan Kaya is undergoing retrials on terrorism charges, reflecting Turkiye's ongoing efforts to silence critical voices through legal harassment.

  • Journalist Sebastiana Barráez faces arrest warrants issued by the Venezuelan authorities, illustrating the regime's attempts to stifle independent reporting on military and governmental issues.

  • British journalist Clare Rewcastle-Brown, the award-winning editor of Sarawak Report, was sentence in absentia by a court in Malaysia. The London-based reporter, who unveiled the 1MDB corruption scandal, was handed a two-year prison sentence for defamation.

Most violations are legislative, but past behavior from Iran, Azerbaijan, and Russia includes physical assaults, abductions, and assassination attempts against journalists in exile.

This demands urgent action from governments and countries offering refuge to exiled journalists. Women Press Freedom is sounding the alarm: transnational repression targeting women journalists is escalating, and host countries are unprepared. Journalists who fled persecution must not continue to face harassment in their new homes.

Countries where journalists have sought refuge must ensure their protection. Governments, particularly in the European Union and the
United States, should implement robust asylum policies offering protection and security against foreign state harassment. Exiled
journalists facing unjust criminal charges and arrest warrants must receive legal assistance. Cynical charges and arrest warrants
should not prevent them from traveling or accessing services in their new homes.

Host countries must conduct thorough investigations into allegations of transnational repression, including assassination attempts, surveillance, assaults, threats, and intimidation. Perpetrators, including intelligence officers and high-ranking officials, must be
prosecuted, and countries responsible for these attacks should face sanctions.

As democracy backslides globally and conflicts rage across multiple continents, journalists are increasingly seeking refuge to escape imprisonment, assault, and even death for doing their jobs. Women Press Freedom stands in complete solidarity with all journalists
forced to flee their homelands to avoid harassment. We cannot ignore the rising threats they now face in supposedly safe countries.

The time to act against these tactics of transnational repression is now, before they escalate and lives are lost.

Steep Rise in

DEEPFAKES

In early 2024, the harmful use of deepfake technology targeting women journalists skyrocketed. Women Press Freedom recorded seven incidents of deepfakes aimed at women journalists in just the first four months of 2024. This matches the total number of cases documented for the entire year of 2023, showing a worrying increase. As outlined in our annual report for 2023, the increasing sophistication and accessibility of deepfake technology heighten the imminent threat it poses, with journalists increasingly becoming prime targets.

Our documented attacks show the targeting of well-known women journalists and come in different forms, from fake pornographic content to attempts to discredit their work, spreading political disinformation, and promote fraudulent investment schemes. These deepfakes not only put the targeted journalists' privacy and reputation at risk but also undermine public trust in media and information.

While some countries are taking the necessary steps to regulate AI and combat deepfakes, the laws need to be strong enough to tackle both AI generated pornographic content as well as the spread of false information that can harm democracies, particularly in a year with multiple elections taking place globally. Legislative initiatives in the United States, the United Kingdom, and the European Union, reflect a patchwork of responses, each grappling with the multifaceted challenges posed by deepfake proliferation.

We can't rely on fragmented efforts; we need united, thorough plans involving governments, civil society, and tech companies. Women Press Freedom calls for collective action so can mitigate this escalating threat to press freedom and uphold the integrity of information.

Incidents Documented from January to  April 2024

Colette Fitzpatrick (Ireland)
A deepfake Instagram advertisement manipulated footage of Virgin Media news anchor Colette Fitzpatrick and Former Prime Minister Leo Varadkar
to promote a fraudulent investment scheme.

Susanne Daubner (Germany)
Fake AI-generated audio clips falsely attributed apologies for "lies" to Tagesschau presenters,
played at a demonstration.

Divya Das (Denmark)
AI-generated images of Divya Das were used without permission to promote fake cryptocurrency schemes in false news articles.

 Legislative Efforts to Combat Deepfakes

Sian Norris (United Kingdom)
Far-right trolls created fake pornographic profiles using the identity of investigative journalist Sian Norris, featuring offensive usernames.

Cathy Newman (United Kingdom)

Deepfake pornographic videos featuring Cathy Newman were circulated online.   

Jomayvit Gálaga and
Verónica Linares (Peru)
AI-manipulated videos featuring these journalists were used to promote an investment scheme.

📍 United States

Federal Level: Proposed laws include the No AI FRAUD Act to criminalize unauthorized digital depictions of individuals and the DEFIANCE Act to allow lawsuits over non-consensual explicit deepfakes.

State Level: States like California and Texas have enacted laws targeting deepfake pornography and political misinformation. California's laws include criminal penalties and civil remedies for victims, while Texas has focused on election interference and explicit content.

📍 United Kingdom

Online Safety Act (2023): Prohibits sharing explicit deepfake content that causes distress but does not cover the creation of non-pornographic deepfakes.

📍 European Union

AI Act: The EU AI Act represents a significant step in the global regulation of AI, setting a precedent for other regions. It aims to balance the promotion of AI innovation with the necessity of protecting public interests and fundamental rights. However, the Act’s current framework may not be sufficient to address the evolving risks posed by deepfakes. It mandates that creators and disseminators of deepfakes disclose their artificial origin and provide information on the techniques used. But transparency alone may not prevent malicious use if creators circumvent disclosure requirements. The Act also lacks specificity in defining what constitutes a deepfake or differentiating between harmful and artistic/creative uses.

Impact of Media Layoffs on Independent Journalism:
A Closer Look at Recent Industry Developments

The recent wave of layoffs in the media industry highlights a crisis that extends beyond mere job losses, touching the core of journalistic integrity and the sustainability of independent media. Our documentation reveals that these layoffs are part of a broader trend of financial instability and strategic shifts within major media organizations. This trend is having a profound impact on the quality of news coverage, the diversity of voices, and the ability of media outlets to hold power to account.

Significant cuts at storied publications like the Los Angeles Times and strategic realignments at other major outlets, such as Sports Illustrated and Pitchfork, underscore a shift towards cost-cutting measures that prioritize short-term financial gains over long-term journalistic values. These layoffs reflect deeper systemic issues within the media industry, including the influence of corporate ownership and the precarious nature of funding models reliant on advertising revenue and digital subscriptions.

The abrupt dismissals of key figures like Mizanur Rahman and Alex Stuckey at Houston Landing, and the merger of Pitchfork with GQ, signal a worrying trend of undermining editorial independence and journalistic expertise. As media companies consolidate and restructure in response to financial pressures, the ripple effects are felt within newsrooms and across the broader landscape of public discourse, with significant implications for democracy and informed citizenry.

We have documented profound repercussions on the landscape of independent media:

  • The Los Angeles Times, a publication with a 142-year history, announced on January 23, 2024, that it would be letting go of over 20% of its newsroom staff, amounting to at least 115 employees.

  • Authentic Brands Group's termination of its licensing agreement with The Arena Group led to the discontinuation of their joint publication of Sports Illustrated, risking the jobs of 82 employees.

  • The abrupt dismissal of editor-in-chief Mizanur Rahman and Pulitzer Prize-winning reporter Alex Stuckey by CEO Peter Bhatia of Houston Landing raises questions about the direction of the organization under Bhatia's leadership.

  • Condé Nast's decision to merge Pitchfork with GQ resulted in significant layoffs, including the departure of editor-in-chief Puja Patel and features editor Jill Mapes.

  • The trend continued with notable staff reductions at NowThis and The Intercept in the United States, where the media industry saw over 980 job losses by the end of January.

  • In Canada's media sector, Bell Media announced plans to discontinue multiple television newscasts and divest a substantial portion of its regional radio stations, leading to an estimated 4,800 job cuts.

  • In the United Kingdom, journalists at openDemocracy were affected by layoffs, raising questions
    about transparency and decision-making processes within the organization.

The layoffs reflect a broader crisis within the media industry, where financial pressures and corporate decisions are increasingly undermining the essential role of independent journalism. This trend threatens the diversity of voices, the quality of news coverage, and the ability of the press to hold power to account. It is imperative that the international community, civil society, and media organizations work together to address these challenges and protect the integrity of independent journalism.

Women Press Freedom stands with journalists affected by these layoffs and calls for urgent action to safeguard the future of independent media.

Case Study #1

Slovakia

Surge in Politically Motivated Attacks on Journalists

The sharp increase in politically motivated attacks on journalists in Slovakia during the first quarter of 2024, as documented by Women Press Freedom (WPF), is a clear warning sign that press freedom is facing a critical threat. WPF notes five press violations targeting women journalists, representing a 100% increase from the same period in 2023. For context, WPF documented a total of four press violations in Slovakia throughout the entire year of 2023. Each violation documented in 2024 was the result of a government politician directly insulting, undermining or belittling a journalist for their work.

The alarming trend aligns with the election of a new government in September 2023 - a populist-nationalist coalition led by Prime Minister Robert Fico. These attacks, alongside proposed changes to replace the public broadcaster with a potentially government-controlled entity, raise fears of heightened political interference in the media landscape. 

Women Press Freedom is deeply concerned by the deteriorating state of press freedom in Slovakia, these escalating political attacks must cease and government officials responsible for targeting journalists must be held accountable. Following an assassination attempt on Prime Minister Fico in May and the dangerous scapegoating of the press by senior politicians the call to safeguard press freedom and protect independent journalists in Slovakia becomes increasingly urgent.

Documented Attacks

On February 11, 2024, high-ranking politicians from the ruling party – Social Democracy (SMER) party initiated a coordinated smear campaign against journalist Zuzana Kovačič Hanzelová. The catalyst for this disgraceful outburst was Hanzelová's commentary regarding an unnamed member of the SMER party, who was seen littering within the National Council premises. Leading the charge was Ľuboš Blaha, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament and Vice Chair of Smer, who used his Telegram channel to launch a series of scathing attacks.

On February 11, 2024, high-ranking politicians from the ruling party – Social Democracy (SMER) party initiated a coordinated smear campaign against journalist Zuzana Kovačič Hanzelová. The catalyst for this disgraceful outburst was Hanzelová's commentary regarding an unnamed member of the SMER party, who was seen littering within the National Council premises. Leading the charge was Ľuboš Blaha, Deputy Speaker of the Parliament and Vice Chair of Smer, who used his Telegram channel to launch a series of scathing attacks.

Politicians Blame Media after Assassination Attempt on Prime Minister

The following day, on March 9, 2024, SMER MP Richard Glück targeted Denník N journalist Mária Benedikovičová on social media, following her publication of an article highlighting Glück's controversial stance on military service.

A month later, on April 8, 2024, Deputy Prime Minister Tomáš Taraba launched a smear campaign against journalist Martina Töröková after she posed challenging questions about bear shootings at a press conference. Taraba, from the ultranationalist Slovak National Party, responded with verbal abuse, accusations of bias, and shared the encounter on social media, inciting harassment against Töröková.

These attacks have led to a surge of online hate, notably against Hanzelová, whose personal phone number and degrading images were published by conspiracy theorist Daniel Bombic.

Interference with Public Broadcaster

The Slovak government has approved a proposal to replace the current public broadcaster, Radio and Television of Slovakia (RTVS), with a new entity named Slovak Television and Radio (STVR), raising concerns about media independence. The new director general of STVR will be appointed by a council whose members are chosen by government ministers and the Fico-controlled parliament, potentially increasing political influence over the broadcaster.

The proposal has sparked protests from Slovaks, journalists, opposition parties, and the European Union, with the European Broadcasting Union warning against state control of public media. Although the government has moderated some controversial aspects of the initial proposal, concerns remain that the changes could undermine journalistic independence. RTVS employees have expressed strong opposition, with many signing a petition and planning symbolic protests. The draft law, which aligns with the European Act on Freedom of the Media, is expected to pass in parliament and take effect in June.

The assassination attempt on Prime Minister Robert Fico in May 2024 has further strained relations between the press and the government. Senior politicians, including Ľuboš Blaha and Andrej Danko, have accused the opposition and independent media of inciting violence and triggering the attack.

Women Press Freedom is alarmed at the escalating dangerous rhetoric from Slovakian politicians following the horrific shooting of the country’s leader.
Our documentation shows that, prior to Fico’s assassination attempt, politicians were already taking steps to discredit and smear independent journalists for reporting critically on the government. We fear that the attempt on Prime Minister Fico’s life will now be used to further demonize the press by unjustly blaming the media for this act of violence. This terrible incident must also not be used to justify further media restrictions under the guise of national security, potentially leading to more repressive measures and a stifling of media plurality.

Blaming the press for the assassination attempt against the Prime Minister is dangerous and puts journalists at risk of attacks. The murder of independent journalist Ján Kuciak and his fiancée, Martina Kušnírová, in an alleged contract killing in 2018, serves as a worrying indication of the deadly threats facing journalists in Slovakia.

We urge the international community, particularly the European Union, to ensure that the environment for journalists in Slovakia is safe.

Case Study #2

Argentina

Threats Against Women Journalists

Escalate Amid Political Shift

Journalists Targeted by Authorities Following Elections

The election of far-right politician Javier Milei as President in Argentina has catalyzed a concerning surge in threats directed at women journalists within the country. Noteworthy figures in the realm of feminist journalism and activism, such as Luciana Peker, Claudia Piñeiro, Giselle Leclercq, Silvia Mercado, and Claudia Acuña, have found themselves subjected to targeted harassment. The gravity of these threats has prompted journalists such as Luciana Peker to seek refuge abroad, underscoring the precarious environment faced by women journalists and activists in Argentina.

During the CGT demonstration on January 23, 2024, an event organized by one of the largest labor federations globally, TN journalist Paula Bernini encountered a distressing episode of verbal aggression and abuse. While fulfilling her reporting duties at the demonstration, Bernini became the focal point of a group that launched a barrage of verbal assaults in her direction, constituting a stark manifestation of hostility towards members of the press.

The escalating infringements on press freedom in Argentina are a source of deep concern for the future. Instances of law enforcement employing excessive force against journalists covering protests against President Javier Milei's proposed reform package led to more than 30 journalists sustaining injuries. This pattern of hostility, which first surfaced during the electoral process of 2023 and has intensified following Milei's assumption of the presidency, signifies a troubling trajectory that could exacerbate if not addressed promptly.

Amid protests against President Javier Milei's omnibus bill on February 1, 2024, the second day of demonstrations witnessed a regrettable display of police using undue force to disperse protesters outside the Congress building. Regrettably, over 30 journalists, including Celeste Alonso, Daniela María Coradeghini, Diana Quiroz, Kresta Pepe, Lorena Tapia, Paula Acunzo, Sol Arezo, and Susi Maresca, were among those injured as a result of the heavy-handed tactics employed by law enforcement, further underscoring the precarious conditions faced by media professionals in Argentina.

Milei Orders Closure of 80-Year-Old State News Agency

During a press briefing on March 4, 2024, Presidential spokesperson Manuel Adorni disclosed that Telam, the state news agency with a rich eight-decade legacy, would be placed under a seven-day suspension period with continued staff remuneration. This decision forms part of the government's ongoing endeavors to conclude the closure of the agency, a move catalyzed by President Milei's announcement of Telam's termination during his address at the commencement of Congress on Friday, March 1. President Milei, in his speech, castigated Telam's historical role as a vehicle for what he termed "Kirchnerist propaganda," alluding to the leftist political leanings linked to former President Cristina Kirchner and her deceased spouse, Nestor.

Case Study #3

Russia

Escalates Press Attacks

Russia’s tyrannical assault on truth, press freedom, and any form of dissent escalated significantly in the first four months of 2024. With 45 cases recorded, this marks the highest number of incidents ever documented in Q1 by
Women Press Freedom since its inception in 2019.

The steep rise in cases — from 10 in Q1 2023 to 45 in Q1 2024 — demonstrates a deliberate strategy to silence dissenting voices and limit the spread of information that could challenge the Kremlin’s narrative. Russia attacked journalists in Ukraine covering conflict, as well as reporters covering memorials to Navalny and protests within Russia. Our findings also illuminate a concerning trend of transnational repression, with 19 cases reported, indicating Russia's escalating hostility toward exiled journalists.

The international community must respond with urgency. Condemnation is not enough; concrete actions are needed. Sanctions against those perpetrating these abuses, increased support for exiled journalists, and robust protections for those still reporting within Russia and occupied territories are essential steps. Media organizations, human rights groups, and governments worldwide must collaborate to pressure the Kremlin, offer assistance to those reporting from the frontline in Ukraine, and provide safe havens for those under threat.

Russia Injures, Abducts, and Harasses Journalists in Ukraine and Occupied Territories

Russia’s Domestic Crackdown Intensifies after the Death of Alexei Navalny

Domestically, Russia witnessed heightened repression coinciding with significant political and social upheavals. The death of Alexei Navalny, a critical voice against the Kremlin, sparked widespread memorials, leading to a surge in detentions of journalists covering these events.

At least four women journalists were detained while reporting including:

·Ksenia Starikova (RusNews): Detained while filming a man dismantling a memorial to Alexei Navalny in Chelyabinsk on February 17.

·Yulia Petrova (RusNews): Detained while covering a rally in memory of Navalny in Moscow on February 17. 

·Elina Kozich (RusNews): Detained along with Aleksey Dushutin while covering a memorial event related to Navalny in St. Petersburg on February 17.

·Zosya Rodkevich: Detained in Moscow while filming a documentary on Sakharov Avenue and later released with a caution on February 17.

Press Covering Mother’s Protests Harassed and Detained

Anti-war demonstrations led by the women relatives of Russians conscripted into the army also added to Moscow’s unease. Several journalists covering the events were detained, while a foreign correspondent for DER SPIEGEL Christina Hebel was ominously threatened by state security, who visited her home and warned her against covering the protests.

Journalists Arrested For Ties with Navalny

Putin’s persecution of Navalny continued after his death, two women journalists who reported on Navalny or had a connection with the former opposition leader’s Anti-Corruption Foundation (FBK), have been charged with “extremism” and are currently behind bars awaiting trial.

·Antonina Favorskaya is facing charges of participating in an extremist organization, specifically the FBK. Favorskaya has extensively covered Navalny and his activism, including his court hearings, and reportedly filmed the last known video of Navalny before his death. Despite claims by Navalny's spokeswoman that Favorskaya did not post any content on FBK platforms, she remains in pre-trial detention.

·Olga Komleva, a reporter for Rus News, was taken into custody in Bashkortostan on similar charges related to the FBK. She was denied access to insulin, which she requires for her diabetes, while in pre-trial detention. Komleva had volunteered at Navalny's campaign office in Ufa.

Antonina Favorskaya
Photo Credit: Dmitry Serebryakov / AP

Exiled Journalists Targeted with Criminal Charges and Arrest Warrants

The persecution extends beyond national borders, with exiled journalists facing criminal charges in absentia, international arrest warrants, and bans from entering Russia. Women Press Freedom notes that Russia has been the perpetrator of 19 cases of transnational repression violations targeting women journalists in the first four months of 2024. This extraterritorial reach of repression signifies that the Russian government's efforts to control information are not confined within its own borders, but aim to stifle dissent and critical reporting globally

The Russian Interior Ministry has issued warrants for at least 13 women and non-binary journalists including Maria Chistyakova, Veronika Belotserkovskaya, and Marina Ovsyannikova, reflecting an aggressive strategy to silence critics abroad. 

Exiled journalists faced legal harassment through criminal charges and being labeled as "foreign agents" by Russian authorities. Ekaterina Fomina faces a criminal probe for reporting Russian war crimes in Ukraine. Maria Menshikova and Buryat journalist Yevgenia Baltatarova have been accused of further criminality, with both facing a second criminal charge. Menshikova is being accused of extremism and Baltatarova of evading the duties of a "foreign agent.” 

Foreign journalists deemed to report unfavorably on Russia were also subject to persecution. Ellen Nakshima, a national security reporter for the Washington Post in the United States was among over 200 people personally sanctioned by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in March. The Kremlin claims those sanctioned engaged in “hostile attacks” against Russia and spread what the state believes to be fabrications and slander about Russia's foreign and domestic policies. 

In January, the head of the press service of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and European Integration (MFAEI) of Moldova announced that Russia had banned the entry of several government officials and journalists from prominent Moldovan publications, including Stela Untila and Lorena Bogza. The decision was justified by Russia as a response to the perceived persecution of Russian media and discrimination against Russian citizens in Moldova.

Case Study #4

Turkiye

Silencing Dissent:

Crackdown on Press Intensifies

A Quiz about Turkiye Press Freedom

Turkiye continues to be the lead violator of press freedom attacks against women journalists. In the first four months of 2024, Women Press Freedom documented 56 press violations in Turkiye.

Detentions on the Rise

In the early months of 2024, Turkiye faced a concerning uptick in detentions of women journalists. Women Press Freedom documented a total of 15 detentions – more than double the amount of Q1 2023 - spread across various regions of the country.  These detentions often came hand in hand with accusations of police aggression.

Among these detentions, seven took place amid protests, while eight occurred during police raids on journalists' homes, notably targeting those associated with Kurdish media outlets. The coordinated operations on April 23 were particularly alarming; resulting in the simultaneous detention of nine journalists affiliated with Kurdish media organizations.

Numerous detentions involved allegations of police brutality and mistreatment towards the detained journalists, including physical assault, overly tight handcuffing, and the use of derogatory language. For instance, the detention ofEylül Deniz Yaşar during Istanbul's Kurdish New Year festivities was marred by aggressive handcuffing and treatment, mirroring a broader trend of excessive force employed against journalists. At least6 women journalists were violently apprehended following local elections in April.

Legal Harassment - Most Prevalent Violation

Legal harassment remains the most prevalent tactic employed against women journalists in Turkiye, with 30 cases documented. The breakdown of these cases demonstrates a wide range of charges, including terror-related offenses, breach of laws on demonstrations, insult cases, spreading false information, obscenity, and defamation. Such charges reflect a systematic effort to curtail journalistic freedom through legal means, often targeting journalists critical of government policies.

Kurdish journalists in Turkiye continue to face a particularly alarming level of persecution and harassment. From January to the end of April 2024, 3 journalists related to Kurdish outlets were arrested, while eight were detained in police raids.

Mass raids, detentions, and arrests targeting Kurdish media outlets and journalists reveal a targeted effort to silence Kurdish voices and suppress reporting on Kurdish rights and issues.

Turkiye: Concerns for New "Agent of Influence Law”

The arrests of Kurdish journalists Melike Aydın, Selamet Turan and Esra Solin Dal represent a blatant violation of press freedom and human rights. These journalists are all facing charged with terror-related offenses for their reporting activities.

Persecution of Kurdish Press Escalates

The legal harassment faced by journalists like Zeynep Kuray and Rozerin Gültekin, who were charged for attending meetings in support of unjustly detained Kurdish colleagues, shows the Turkish government's intolerance towards Kurdish activism and journalism.

By equating journalism on Kurdish issues with terrorism, authorities seek to criminalize legitimate forms of expression and silence dissent within the Kurdish community. The implications of this targeted persecution extend far beyond individual journalists. By silencing Kurdish voices and restricting coverage of Kurdish issues, Turkish authorities seek to control the narrative and prevent the dissemination of information that challenges their policies and actions in Kurdish-majority regions.

Echoes of Repressive Regimes

Turkiye Continues Legislative Attack on Independent Press

"We are journalists. At most, we have a camera and a pen in our hands. If there is a crime, it is not us who committed this crime, but those who detained us illegally,"

Eylem Nazlıer

Women Press Freedom notes with deep concern the parallels between this proposed law and similar draconian measures in Russia. Russia’s foreign agents law, like the one proposed in Turkiye, has been weaponized to silence dissent and target journalists. The Kremlin has extensively used such legislation to label critical journalists as foreign agents, initiating legal actions and detaining those who refuse to comply.

The Turkish government, not content with relentlessly harassing, charging, and detaining journalists under the guise of anti-terror operations, or fining journalists for insulting public officials and deeming the sharing of news reports as the "spreading of false information," is now attempting to introduce its own version of Russia’s foreign agent legislation.

Women Press Freedom is gravely alarmed by the proposed "agent of influence" bill currently under deliberation in the Turkish parliament. If this bill is enacted, it would represent a severe blow to freedom of speech and press freedom, specifically targeting those who criticize the government by unjustly branding them as agents of foreign influence.

At its core, the proposed law seeks to criminalize activities deemed harmful to Turkiye's interests. If added to the Turkish Penal Code under the espionage section, this law could dramatically impact journalists and civil society organizations. The provision aims to deter and prosecute espionage and prevent foreign intelligence operations in Turkiye by targeting those working for foreign states to influence public opinion against the country. The vague language of the provision has raised concerns about its potential misuse and its impact on media freedom and independent journalism.

Legal experts warn that it could be applied arbitrarily and could lead to the criminalization of legitimate activities, particularly those supported by international cooperation and funding.

Protests over “foreign agents law” in Georgia

The recent adoption of a similar "foreign agents" law in Georgia, despite widespread protests and international condemnation, underscores the urgency of our concerns. Georgian media outlets and NGOs receiving more than 20% of their funding from abroad will be compelled to register as foreign agents. The punitive measures for non-compliance, including substantial fines and potential legal action, threaten the very existence of independent journalism and civil society organizations.

Similar laws in Hungary and Bosnia and Herzegovina's Republika Srpska entity have been proposed. They have encountered opposition and sparked protests, with critics contending that they undermine fundamental rights and liberties.

The experience of journalists and independent media in Russia serves as a stark warning. Independent voices have been systematically suppressed, journalists forced into exile, media outlets have been harassed, and free press eroded.

Turkiye's ruling party, under President Erdogan, has a troubling history of enacting laws that stifle dissent and muzzle free expression. The disinformation law, which empowers the government to censor online content and imprison journalists, is a case in point. This proposed "agent of influence" bill is yet another step towards consolidating control over the narrative and eliminating critical voices.

Women Press Freedom’s documentation of press violations in Turkiye highlights the state's aggressive stance towards journalists, particularly those associated with Kurdish media outlets. We believe that this new bill, if passed, will exacerbate these violations, leading to further persecution of journalists who dare to challenge the government's narrative.

The proposed bill is scheduled to be presented to the Turkish Grand National Assembly (TBMM) in June 2024. Women Press Freedom urges the international community to apply pressure on the Turkish government to abandon this repressive bill. The enactment of the "agent of influence" law would mark another dark chapter for press freedom in Turkiye, a country that has embarked on a concerted campaign to stifle independent media since the failed coup attempt in 2016. We call on the Turkish Grand National Assembly to reject this bill.

Case Study #5

Senegal

Violent Attacks and Arbitrary Detentions

Escalate Pre-Election

In the first four months of 2024, Women Press Freedom documented numerous cases of harassment, detention, and physical violence against media personnel in Senegal. Historically a beacon of democracy in West Africa, Senegal's press freedom has been under threat in recent years. The new administration, under President Bassirou Diomaye Faye, has the opportunity to reverse this trend and implement reforms to protect and promote the rights of journalists.

In February 2024, the decision by former President Macky Sall to delay the presidential elections triggered widespread protests across the country. Journalists covering these protests faced severe repercussions. Women Press Freedom documented seven violations against women journalists during this period, including detentions and assaults.

Sokhna Ndack Mbacké and Khadija Ndate Diouf

Notable incidents include the February 4, 2024, detention of Agora TV’s
Sokhna Ndack Mbacké and Itv’s Khadija Ndate Diouf. These journalists were reporting on protests in Dakar when they were detained by the gendarmerie, verbally abused, had their equipment confiscated, and were threatened with imprisonment. They were released without charge after a brief detention.

Absa Hane, Fana Cissé, Isabelle Bampoky, and Ngoné Diop

In a broader crackdown, at least 25 journalists, including Absa Hane, Fana Cissé, Isabelle Bampoky, and Ngoné Diop, were subjected to tear gas, physical assaults,
and detentions by the Senegal National Police during demonstrations.

Maimouna Ndour Faye

The violence against journalists reached a peak on February 29, 2024, when Maimouna Ndour Faye, a respected TV presenter, was brutally stabbed near her home. Faye had been outspoken on her program and had received previous death threats.

These attacks reflect a sharp deterioration of press freedom in the country, characterized by revoked licenses, internet restrictions, and persistent harassment of journalists. The legal framework governing media in Senegal has also contributed to this decline. Outdated laws, such as the Press Code and Criminal Law Code, contain provisions misaligned with international standards for freedom of expression. These laws have been used to harass and prosecute journalists, stifling independent reporting.

The election of President Bassirou Diomaye Faye in March 2024 offers a glimmer of hope for reform, given his party's platform advocating change. During his campaign, Faye promised to abolish prison sentences for press-related offenses, a pledge that, if honored, could significantly improve the media landscape.

Women Press Freedom urges President Bassirou Diomaye Faye and his administration to translate campaign promises into tangible actions.  The new government must seize this critical moment to reaffirm Senegal's commitment to democracy and human rights by protecting its journalists. This includes implementing legal reforms, ensuring accountability for attacks on media personnel, and upholding the principles of free expression.

CFWIJ Advocacy Work

Over the past five years, the Coalition For Women In Journalism and Women Press Freedom advocated for and supported numerous journalists who have faced violations and difficulties while reporting. While some cases are reported in our newsroom, many must remain anonymous to protect the safety and lives of the journalists involved.

In our advocacy efforts, we have arranged legal and advocacy support for journalists facing press freedom attacks from individuals and authorities. Our work has included engaging with government and public officials, policymakers, embassies, mayors, and heads of law enforcement, all in efforts to ensure that women and non-binary journalists can work in a safe environment.

Our advocacy efforts have also been public-facing, including campaigns and engagements alongside partners, including CPJ, RSF, Reporters Committee, PEN, Article 19, and the ACLU.

Here are some notable cases we worked on in the first quarter of 2024, showcasing the breadth and impact of our advocacy efforts:

BRANDI MORIN

Award-winning Cree/Iroquois/French multimedia journalist from Treaty 6 territory
in Alberta

Following campaigns by CFWIJ and Women Press Freedom, the Edmonton prosecutor dropped criminal charges against journalist Brandi Morin. She was arrested in January 2024 for reporting on a police raid on a homeless camp.

On January 30, CFWIJ joined Morin to the Edmonton Police Station to be fingerprinted and have her mugshot taken. The previous day, CFWIJ and Women Press Freedom, along with over a half-dozen press freedom groups, demanded that police drop the bogus charges against Morin.

“As an indigenous reporter who regularly reports on police brutality against indigenous peoples, it’s my responsibility to use my platform to inform the public and to hold to account those in power, such as the police. I am resolute in my belief in the importance of the work that I and every other journalist in this world do. I believe that witnessing the actions of and holding to account society’s most powerful figures is at the very core of what journalists do, and I will not allow my arrest to silence or undermine the powerful legacy of work I have built up.”
- Brandi Morin

ALSU KURMASHEVA

Coalition against SLAPP in Europe

As part of the Coalition Against SLAPPs in Europe (CASE), we have been advocating for anti-SLAPP laws in the EU. These laws aim to protect journalists and activists from strategic lawsuits designed to intimidate and silence them. In November 2023, the CASE coalition urged European institutions to negotiate the strongest possible Anti-SLAPP Directive. The coalition's efforts contributed to the adoption of the EU's Anti-SLAPP Directive, known as Daphne's Law, which was published on April 11, 2024. This marked a significant milestone in protecting journalists in Europe, six years and six months after Daphne Caruana Galizia’s assassination.

American-Russian journalist and editor at Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty

Alsu Kurmasheva, an American-Russian journalist and editor at Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, has been detained by Russian authorities since October 18, 2023. After being targeted while visiting Kazan for a family emergency, she now faces serious charges and a potential decade-long imprisonment. CFWIJ and Women Press Freedom has been urging to U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken together with other leading press freedom and First Amendment organizations, to take decisive action in support of Kurmasheva. 

CHARLOTTE HAMPTON

ALESANDRA GONZALES 

On May 16, 2024, prosecutors dropped criminal trespassing charges against Dartmouth student journalists Charlotte Hampton and Alesandra “Dre” Gonzales following advocacy from several press freedom organizations, including CFWIJ and Women Press Freedom. The reporters were arrested on May 1, 2024, during campus protests despite their clear press identification.