Nepal Reports Surge in Press Freedom Violations on World Press Freedom Day
Nepal marks Press Freedom Day; report flags rise in violations
News 18
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On World Press Freedom Day, Nepal reported nearly 100 incidents of press freedom violations over the past year, significantly higher than the previous year's 68 incidents. The Freedom Forum Nepal highlighted threats, attacks, and obstructions faced by journalists, prompting calls for stronger protection of press freedoms.
- 01Nepal recorded 97 incidents of press freedom violations affecting 145 media persons and 20 media organizations from May 2025 to April 2026.
- 02The number of violations increased from 68 incidents the previous year.
- 03Key issues included 28 threats, 21 attacks, and 18 obstructions against journalists.
- 04A rally organized by the Federation of Nepali Journalists emphasized the importance of press freedom for human rights.
- 05The government claims commitment to press freedom, despite accusations of interference in media operations.
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On May 3, 2026, Nepal observed World Press Freedom Day, revealing a troubling rise in press freedom violations. According to a report by Freedom Forum Nepal, there were 97 recorded incidents affecting 145 media professionals and 20 media organizations between May 1, 2025, and April 30, 2026. This marks a significant increase from the 68 incidents reported the previous year. The violations included 28 threats, 21 attacks, and 18 acts of obstruction against journalists. During the observance, the Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) held a rally in Kathmandu, where speakers underscored the essential role of press freedom in safeguarding human rights. FNJ Chair Nirmala Sharma criticized the Balendra Shah-led government for perceived interference, notably its decision to block government advertisements to private media. In response, Minister for Communications and Information Technology Bikram Timilsina reiterated the government's commitment to uphold press freedom as a constitutional right, emphasizing its importance to democracy and public accountability.
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The rise in press freedom violations raises concerns for journalists' safety and the overall health of democracy in Nepal.
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