A group of 33 independent Arakan journalists, both local and in exile, has established the Arakha Press Council (APC), aiming to promote media development, protect journalists and uphold press freedom as conflict intensifies in Arakan (Rakhine) State.
The APC was formed after a series of collaborative meetings that began on June 14, according to a statement released by the APC on June 22.
The APC also said it aims to operate as an independent, self-sustaining professional organization.
“Our main goal is to contribute to the development of the Arakan media sector. We hope to find constructive ways to push for freedom of access to information and freedom to report. Arakan State has drawn international attention, but that has also brought a surge of state-backed disinformation and fake news. The APC will work as much as we can to confront those challenges, and we will stand as an independent body. We will also focus on protecting the safety of every media worker while supporting the development of the media sector,” said Ma Kay Zu, interim spokesperson for the APC.
The APC said it will focus on expanding access to information, promoting media ethics, strengthening journalists’ safety, and offering training and capacity-building programs for media workers.
Ma Kay Zu stressed that the APC is not being formed solely to oppose authorities, but to serve as a professional platform dedicated to supporting independent media.
“Our next step is to hold a general conference with more experts and scholars so we can strengthen our organizational structure. We’ll then formally notify the United League of Arakan (ULA) government and work to build ties with local and international press freedom organizations to improve the situation for journalists in Arakan State,” she said.
Ma Kay Zu added that the APC will develop both short-term and long-term safety measures and serve as a communication bridge between media organizations and local authorities to avoid unnecessary disputes.
Journalists in Arakan State are currently facing mounting challenges because of junta-imposed restrictions on information and the ongoing armed conflict.
Frontline reporters continue to work in extremely dangerous conditions, including airstrikes, artillery shelling and landmine threats, often without proper protective equipment.
Local reporter Ma Khin Tharaphi Oo said female journalists face particular difficulties when reporting from conflict zones and expressed hope that the APC could provide meaningful support.
“Covering active conflict in Arakan State is extremely dangerous, especially for female journalists. I believe the APC will be an important source of support for women and for all frontline reporters who risk their lives to document what is happening on the ground,” she said.
The APC stated that membership remains open to all independent Arakan journalists. An interim steering committee is currently running the organization and preparing its constitution and long-term strategy ahead of a future general assembly.
