CPJ Insider: August edition

CPJ calls on U.S. to support Afghans who helped journalists

As the security situation in Afghanistan deteriorates, and the Taliban continues to gain power, Afghan journalists working for U.S. media organizations are facing imminent threat. With their lives in jeopardy, many may be forced to leave the country. Learn more »

Journalists identified as possible targets of Pegasus spyware

At least 180 journalists have been identified as possible targets of Pegasus, a spyware created for mobile devices that transforms a cellphone into a surveillance station. Learn more »

Must-reads

The Hong Kong Journalists Association is reporting that authorities are using the national security law to silence the media. “With the political ‘red line’ almost everywhere, pressure on free thinking is mounting,” the group’s chairman says.

Following the killing of renowned crime reporter Peter de Vries in the Netherlands, CPJ’s Jan-Albert Hootsen interviews three journalists about the impact of the attack on de Vries and the response. Hootsen is CPJ's Mexico representative but happened to be home in Holland when the murder occurred. 

CPJ signed on to a joint statement calling on Kyrgyz authorities to conduct an independent investigation into the death of Azimjon Askarov, journalist and winner of CPJ's 2012 International Press Freedom Award. Askarov, who was serving a life term in prison, died in custody in July 2020. 

CPJ in the news

“America turned its back on Afghanistan': Stranded Afghan journalist sees US betrayal,” Mother Jones

“Jury finds Capital Gazette gunman responsible and rejects his mental illness plea,” NPR

“Famous Dutch crime journalist Peter R. de Vries dies in hospital after being shot in street,” CNN

“The ugly roots of the violent global crackdown on journalists,” The Washington Post

“Burundi's lifting of media ban met with cautious optimism,” Voice of America

“When it comes to whistleblowers like Julian Assange, Biden's actions look a lot like Trump's,” San Francisco Chronicle