Media watchdog condemns Burmese military

Aug 29, 2007 (DVB)—International media watchdog Reporters Without Borders and the Burma Media Association released a joint statement today condemning the military over recent crackdowns on journalists.

According to the groups, the Burmese military has heavily cracked down on reporters attempting to cover protests over high fuel prices, making it difficult for local journalists and the foreign media to cover the recent wave of unrest.

“The military’s response to the wave of protests against price increases since 19 August has again been heavy-handed repression, intimidation and censorship of Burmese journalists,” the organisations said.

“Despite the violence by the military and their bully-boys, reports and pictures of the demonstrations are being seen abroad. This testifies to the courage of the Burmese journalists and demonstrators.”

Several journalists have reported being harassed by government supporters, Union Solidarity and Development Association members and the Swan Arr Shin while attempting to cover the protests.

Reporting by DVB