May 3, 2016 – Kirk Spitzer, USA Today
Concerns cloud day to mark press liberties
TOKYO Tuesday marks World Press Freedom Day, but journalists in Japan said government pressure, weak institutional controls and a powerful state secrecy law have caused a worrisome loss in media freedom.
Three prominent journalists resigned in March amid concerns that pressure from government and conservative groups cause news organizations to avoid orsoften reporting on controversial subjects, such as recent legislation easing constitutional restraints on Japan’s military.
The United Nations issued a blistering report last month after its independent expert spent a week in Japan interviewing journalists, educators and government officials. “The independence of the press is facing serious threats,” U.N. special rapporteur David Kaye said at a news conference April 19 in Tokyo. [READ MORE]