CPJ Launches Campaign for Jailed Journalists amid COVID-19 Pandemic

* Photo: Twitter

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The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has launched a global campaign calling for the unconditional release of all jailed journalists.

Calling on the authorities around the world to ensure the safety of all jailed journalists during the COVID-19 pandemic, the CPJ has stated:

"In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Committee to Protect Journalists calls on governments to release all journalists from their prisons. On behalf of more than 250 journalists behind bars, we call on authorities to free these political prisoners immediately and unconditionally.

'Freedom now a matter of life and death'

"For journalists jailed in countries affected by the virus, freedom is now a matter of life and death. Imprisoned journalists have no control over their surroundings, cannot choose to isolate, and are often denied necessary medical care.

"The World Health Organization states that 'People deprived of their liberty, and those living or working in enclosed environments in their close proximity, are likely to be more vulnerable to the COVID-19 disease than the general population.'

"Global press freedom and human rights organizations are calling on world leaders to immediately release all imprisoned journalists. Add your voice to the call and sign our petition today!"

CPJ Director urges leaders to take quick action

CPJ's Executive Director Joel Simon has also indicated that at least 250 journalists have been in jail around the world over the past four years and those journalists now face a potential death sentence.

Noting that jailed journalists are particularly vulnerable to the virus, Joel Simon has said, "COVID-19 is spreading rapidly through prisons. We urge world leaders to take quick and decisive action to free all journalists behind bars, as a matter of life and death."

You can support the campaign launched for the jailed journalists around the world here or share a message under the hashtag #FreeThePress on social media. (HA/SD)