Background

Counter-terrorism laws and other laws that protect national security form an important part of the legal and regulatory framework of the State. In practice, however, there are instances where these laws are framed and applied in a manner that may violate media freedoms and threaten the safety of journalists. The application of these frameworks may result, among other things in the detention and prosecution of journalists, the prohibition of media content, and the imposition of other restrictions such as internet shutdowns.

Summary

In this context, the present briefer, developed by the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, details counter-terrorism and criminal laws that affect media freedom and safety of journalists, and list recommendations to States to remedy that situation.