FRONTLINES
Journalists Face Safety Challenges in Mexico
Reporting the news has become an increasingly dangerous line of work. Last year was the most deadly on record for journalists. Reporters Without Borders, a Paris-based organization that fights for press freedom, says at least 110 journalists were killed, 56 kidnapped and 1,470 physically attacked or threatened in 2006. Iraq tops the list of the most dangerous nations in the world for journalists, according to the International Press Institute. Mexico ranks second.
"The media environment is reaching a tipping point. Journalists have long felt intimidated by public officials to compromise their objectivity, and now the widespread violence they face has made their daily duties even more precarious," says Mario Bronfman, the Ford Foundation's representative in Mexico City. "We are working with local partners to fight this attack against the press, against freedom of expression."
The Ford Foundation supports grantees in Mexico who are examining human rights abuses against journalists. Much of the violence has been linked to drug cartels. Yet the government has failed to aggressively pursue those responsible. Media outlets are intimidated and, as a result, journalism in Mexico is suffering.
To address the issue, Bronfman has identified a set of organizations focusing on the safety of journalists, and also providing professional training and other supports for democratic practices throughout the media sector.
Three grantees playing key roles in this effort:
Fundar: Center for Research and Analysis
Monitors news coverage of elections and major social issues to analyze mass media trends and determine whether news outlets are operating in a balanced, independent manner while increasing awareness of the bias that can occur in news reporting.
www.fundar.org.mx
ARTICLE 19
Investigates human rights abuses against journalists and designs and implements "first aid" responses to threats, including providing the press with mobile phones and emergency numbers, accompanying those at risk and providing a safe haven within or outside the country.
www.article19.org
AMARC México
The Mexican branch of the World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters provides training, technical and legal assistance, and organizational support to community radio stations, ensuring their freedom of expression and ability to promote a social dialogue.
www.amarcmexico.org