Three journalist organizations ask the head of the Armed Forces to revoke parameters conditioning coverage to the press
Three journalist organizations in Ecuador are urging the head of the Armed Forces to eliminate guidelines that restrict press coverage.
In a letter addressed to Henry Delgado, the head of the Joint Command of the Armed Forces, three prominent journalist organizations in Ecuador have expressed their strong opposition to new restrictions imposed on media coverage of military activities. The Unión Nacional de Periodistas (UNP), the Federación Nacional de Periodistas del Ecuador (Fenape), and the Colegio de Periodistas de Pichincha (CPP) claim that these restrictions infringe on fundamental rights, notably freedom of expression and access to information, which are constitutionally and internationally protected.
The journalist groups pointed out that the guidelines established by the Armed Forces not only limit journalists' ability to cover military events but also constitute a serious violation of citizens' rights to receive information. They emphasized that these rights are safeguarded by constitutional provisions, international treaties, and existing national laws related to freedom of expression and access to information. As such, they are calling for immediate action to ensure that press freedom is upheld.
This situation raises significant concerns about press freedom in Ecuador and highlights the ongoing challenges journalists face in obtaining information about government and military activities. The outcome of this request could set important precedents for media relations with state institutions in the country, thus impacting the broader landscape of journalism and public accountability in Ecuador.