The Defence of Press Freedom and Freedom of Expression in Nepal

In response to the deteriorating press freedom and freedom of expression situation in Nepal, twelve international organisations, including UN agencies, global media associations, freedom of expression advocates and media development organisations, undertook a mission to the country from 10 to 17 July 2005. This mission reflected the serious concern with which the international community views the press freedom and freedom of expression situation in the country.

During the mission representatives of the international organisations met with persons and institutions espousing a broad spectrum of opinions on the current media and freedom of expression situation in Nepal. In particular, these meetings included cabinet Ministers, senior officers of the Royal Nepal Army, civil society representatives, and a cross-section of the national media community. In addition, the mission visited a number of the districts, including Butwal, Biratnagar, Nepalgunj and Mahendranagar, and met with local civil authorities and representatives from the local media in these areas. The members of the mission also participated in a national conference on Press Freedom and Freedom of Expression in Kathmandu on 15 July 2005.