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Combating Impunity for Online Violence
Online attacks against journalists are increasing exponentially. We can help journalists seek redress for violations of their rights.
Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation
Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation (SLAPPs) are a form of legal harassment designed to intimidate journalists and silence critical reporting. We help journalists resist these abusive tactics.
Environmental Journalism
Reporting on the environment has become one of the most dangerous jobs in journalism. We support journalists reporting on what us widely regarded as one of the most urgent challenges of our time.
Journalists in Distress Network
The rapid decline of press freedom needs a global and coordinated response. This is why we work with partners around the world to fight back. Media Defence is a member of the Journalists in Distress (JID) Network, a group of 22 international organisations that provide direct assistance to journalists and media workers whose lives or careers are threatened because of their work. Each organisation has its own mandate and criteria for emergency assistance. The JID Network allows member organisations to more easily share information, coordinate joint efforts, and avoid duplication.
Members
Article 19 | Canadian Journalists for Free Expression | Committee to Protect Journalists | Defend Defenders | English Pen | European Centre for Press and Media Freedom | EMHRF | Free Press Unlimited | Freedom House | Front Line Defenders | International Cities of Refuge Network | International Media Support | International Women’s Media Foundation | International Research & Exchanges Board | Internews | Marie Colvin Journalists’ Network | Media Defence | Pen America | Pen International | Rory Peck Trust | Reporters Without Borders | SKeyes |
Legal Network for Journalists at Risk
In 2022, we set up the Legal Network for Journalists at Risk (LNJAR) in partnership with the Committee to Protect Journalists the Thomson Reuters Foundation. The network will strategically pool the resources of our organisations, all of whom support journalists or media outlets facing legal threats in various ways. By forming a central mechanism to coordinate support, we can ensure that these organisations make the best possible use of limited resources, and avoid duplication in high profile cases.
Emergency Defence News
Kenyan Court Declares Journalist Arshad Sharif’s Killing Unlawful
July 8, 2024- In a critical ruling, the High Court of Kenya at Kajiado, has found the killing of prominent Pakistani journalist, Arshad Sharif, unlawful. The Court also condemned the authorities’ failure to carry out a prompt and independent investigation into the killing. Judge Mutuku stated that the authorities played a "blame game" in the…
The Cost of Exposing Corruption: Mauricio Weibel’s Struggle Against Military Espionage and Disinformation Campaigns
Mauricio Weibel Barahona, is a distinguished Chilean investigative journalist specialising in military corruption and human rights. His in-depth investigations have exposed significant corruption within the Chilean military, leading to both monumental recoveries for the Chilean treasury and severe personal repercussions. His work had significant national impacts, including the recovery of approximately USD 4.5 billion for…
Troll Farms and Threats: One Journalist’s Resilience in the Face of an Online Smear Campaign
Warning: Contains descriptions of gender based violence and harassment. Troll Farms and Threats After posting a Twitter (now X) response that was taken out of context and widely circulated by far-right groups as anti-Hindu, S*, a journalist in India, was suddenly inundated with thousands of violent threats online, targeting her and her family. Different news…
Chutima Sidasathian: Unveiling Corruption in Thailand
Thai reporter, Chutima Sidasathian, has dedicated herself to reporting on corruption and the plights of rural communities and refugees. This dedication comes despite repeated attempts to silence her through intimidation and legal attacks. In a recent interview with Media Defence, Sidasathian reflects on the dangers of reporting on these critical issues and the challenges posed…
Mamunur Rashid Nomani charged with violating Bangladesh’s Digital Security Act
Journalist Mamunur Rashid Nomani, editor of the local online news portal Barishal Khobor, has been charged with violating Bangladesh’s Digital Security Act (DSA), following an accusation claiming that he secretly filmed the mayor of Barisal and his family. Nomani rejects this, alleging instead that he and two of his acquaintances – Kamrul Mridha, working for…
Women’s History Month: Journalists who inspire us
Threats and violence against women journalists endanger important democratic values, including freedom of expression and the right to information. Despite significant risks, women continue to investigate abuses of power—and we applaud those who are laying the groundwork for a better future. Whether covering instability wrought by war or how corruption impacts local farmers, every journalist…