The Independent Press Council Myanmar (IPCM) calls for ensuring safe access to information and press freedom for journalists in ethnic-dominated conflict zones and revolution-held areas.
The statement directly responds to the guidelines issued by the Karenni State Interim Executive Council (IEC) on April 16, and the Karen National Union (KNU) on April 21, emphasizing that journalists operating in their liberated areas must strictly adhere to their directives.
IPCM also underscored concerns among media professionals regarding statements issued by powerful resistance forces like IEC and KNU, citing potential threats to press freedom.
"Some guidelines restrict access to information, which is unacceptable to us. Therefore, we will engage in negotiations with the relevant organizations”, IPCM Setcratry U Toe Zaw Latt told the Than Lwin Times.
He also stated the intention to establish a coordination committee within the Media Council, which will subsequently engage in discussions with the National Unity Government (NUG) and ethnic armed organizations (EAOs).
IPCM also called on all entities aspiring to establish a future federal democratic union to uphold and prioritise the standards and values of media freedom.
IPCM also announced its plan to release a code of conduct for journalists to adhere to, scheduled for publication on World Press Freedom Day, observed on May 31.
