Seasoned political correspondent Mercado suspended for a month-and-a-half without explanation

Location: Argentina, Buenos Aires
Date: July 22, 2024

Women for Press Freedom stands firmly in solidarity with veteran political correspondent Silvia Mercado, whose accreditation for  Casa Rosada — which houses both the national government and the president's office — was abruptly suspended without official explanation. We strongly denounce this clear violation of press freedom and highlight significant concerns regarding government-media relations in Argentina. The reversal of the decision, which occurred a month and a half later, following pressure from various associations, prominent journalists, and legal intervention, underscores the importance of accountability. We call for transparency regarding this obstruction and urge repercussions for those involved. We urge the Argentine government to cease interfering with journalistic independence and to protect freedom of the press rather than impeding it.

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"Let us continue to do professional and quality journalism, which is what we are passionate about and which motivates us every day of our lives. And let us continue to defend freedom of the press, the basis of our democracy," writes prominent journalist Silvia Mercado, expressing gratitude for the support that, along with an appeal, led to the reinstatement of her accreditation at Casa Rosada on July 22, 2024.

Mercado, a respected figure in radio, television, and print media, had her access was abruptly revoked on June 6, 2024, without explanation. The incident prompted an outpouring of support from industry stalwarts like Marcelo Longobardi, Ernesto Tenembaum, and Maria O'Donnell, among others, ultimately leading to a majority of Rosada journalists petitioning for a review.

Mercado, reflecting on the ordeal, shared her bewilderment at the sudden banishment from the press room where she had dedicated years of service. 

The rise of far-right politician Javier Milei as President in Argentina has sparked a troubling increase in threats against women journalists in the country. Prominent feminist journalists and activists, including Silvia Mercado, have faced relentless harassment, intimidation, and obstruction, as documented by Women Press Freedom.

Women Press Freedom expresses unwavering support for Silvia Mercado. We condemn the unjust suspension of her accreditation as a blatant infringement on press freedom. While we appreciate her reinstatement, we remain troubled by the arbitrary nature of her initial suspension. We call on the Argentine government to refrain from meddling in journalistic autonomy and instead safeguard press freedom. Accountability must be upheld for those involved in this violation.

Women Press Freedom is an initiative by The Coalition For Women In Journalism

The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.

If you have been harassed or abused in any way, and please report the incident by using the following form.