Stories about Media & Journalism from April, 2023
The consequences of online discrimination and authoritarianism for minorities
In most countries, three-quarters or more of the targets of online hate speech are members of minority groups, with women being disproportionately targeted.
What is red-tagging and why it is dangerous in the Philippines?
With the enactment of the Anti-Terrorism Act in 2020, red-tagged individuals and groups face the risks of being subjected to surveillance, freezing of assets, and restriction of movement, among others.
Pakistan's war on journalism: Abduction and arrest of prominent journalists
Journalists in Pakistan continue to face harassment, arrest, and abduction for their reporting on sensitive issues. In recent years, several prominent journalists and media workers have been targeted and killed.
‘The internet is full of good intentions’: an interview with Ethan Zuckerman, part two
"You have to look at the examples of people who are trying to create interesting, new ways of building social media. [...]grounded in real, existing communities in the world."
‘Harnessing the internet to create unprecedented global connection’: an interview with Ethan Zuckerman
In 2004, Global Voices founders asked themselves how they could use the internet to build bridges between the Global North and the Global South.
Burundi’s plastic bottle recycling still has some way to go
Despite sound legislation being in place, plastic bottle recycling remains a challenge in Burundi. Plastic pollution also has an impact on its flooding.
Why tech companies can no longer ignore their role in shaping politics and society
As the influence of tech companies continues to grow, it falls to civil society, journalists, tech users, and watchdog organisations to keep these firms accountable.
Sri Lanka's proposed anti-terrorism law aims to curb civil protests
There is growing dissent within Sri Lanka against the proposed Anti-Terrorism Act (ATA), which is intended to replace the existing Prevention of Terrorism Act (PTA) and the accompanying bill.
Russia, Ukraine, and the reemergence of demonstrative political murders
Fomin was one of "patriotic" war bloggers who grew more and more critical of the Kremlin, saying its moves were not decisive or radical enough.
How internet shutdowns in Myanmar have been endangering lives and affecting humanitarian work since the coup
The internet blackout has made it difficult for locals to both send and receive information on the conditions in the region, report human rights abuses committed by the military regime, or raise funds for humanitarian business.
‘A great day to be a journalist in Fiji’ as Parliament repeals ‘draconian’ media law
"Some of Fiji's best journalists left the industry as a result and the media still carry the mental scars today from that very disturbing period."
The ‘New Uzbekistan’ budget battle: Democracy in action or a flawed system?
'People are amazed that they can get some small roads paved with asphalt by voting... What if they realise they could even change the governments by voting? Hard to imagine…'
In Turkey, will one man continue to rule them all? The May 14th elections hold the answer
The stakes are high, and there is a growing sense among the general public that if the current leadership stays in power, the country's future is grim and uncertain.
Environmental investigative journalism makes headway in Côte d'Ivoire: An interview with Ismael Angoh
From environmental resource misuse to open dumping of toxic waste or wastewater in its rivers, Africa’s environmental issues are plentiful. Global Voices interviewed Ismael Angoh to understand this profession's challenges.
The Myanmar junta’s war against Facebook
Social media platforms have an oversized influence on political events such as elections, and they have a responsibility to advance democracy.
A murder victim, rape survivor, and porn star: Hong Kong's media biases highlight misogynist social undercurrents
Abby Choi’s femicide, Maple Yip’s whistleblowing, and the release of Erena So’s porn film have triggered debate about media ethics and gender awareness in the Hong Kong.
Mozambique: death of rapper and activist mobilise protest and police violence
Azagaia, who died on March 9, was considered one of the biggest names in Hip Hop music made in the Lusophone space.
Undertones: ‘Ukrainians have developed their own vocabulary about the war,’ Ukrainian scholar says
Dr. Tanya Lokot provides insights into the media landscape of Ukraine, outlining its dynamics.
Pakistan's recent Wikipedia ban sparks controversy over blasphemy laws and freedom of speech
The Pakistani government has repeatedly enforced several restrictions on accessing certain websites and online material, often citing reasons such as national security, blasphemy laws, and moral principles.
Burkinabe music reflects the country’s openness to globalisation
The music scene in Burkina Faso has evolved to include a blend of Pan-African, diasporic, and international influences, resulting in a diverse array of genres that contribute to its success.
