How Myanmar's journalists keep reporting, despite military ruleーNHK WORLD-JAPAN NEWS

Key Concepts

• Media Suppression in Myanmar: The military junta’s control over media and the resulting challenges faced by independent news outlets.
• Misma: An independent media outlet operating in secrecy to report on the situation in Myanmar.
• Surveillance & Risk: The dangers faced by journalists due to increased military surveillance and potential imprisonment.
• Funding Challenges: The difficulties independent media face in securing international funding due to shifting global attention.
• Flawed Election: The reported irregularities and coercion surrounding the recent election in Myanmar.
• Public Resignation: The widespread sense of hopelessness and resignation among the population regarding political change.

The Struggle for Independent Journalism in Myanmar Under Military Rule

This report details the increasingly difficult environment for independent journalism in Myanmar following the military coup, focusing on the operations and challenges faced by the news outlet Misma. The military junta has systematically tightened its grip on the media landscape, effectively silencing independent reporting and forcing journalists to operate in secrecy or exile.

Media Suppression and Misma’s Response

The report highlights how Misma, a crucial source of independent news, has been forced to adapt to survive. After having its media license revoked by the military, Misma’s journalists were compelled to either flee the country or operate clandestinely. They now broadcast from a hidden location – described as a shack in the jungle – sending news to bases outside Myanmar for dissemination via radio and internet. This allows them to reach audiences within Myanmar despite the military’s control over domestic media. The report details the physical setup of one of Misma’s external bases, depicting a seemingly ordinary house concealing a broadcasting studio.

Operational Risks and Security Measures

The work is fraught with danger. The military has significantly increased surveillance, installing CCTV cameras nationwide. This poses a direct threat to journalists, as footage can be used to identify individuals taking photos or videos. As one journalist stated, “by looking at CCTV, the one who was taking photos or videos can be identified. So we have to be… very careful whether we should use it this kind of close-up photos which can endanger our passing inside.” Journalists operating within Myanmar disguise themselves as civilians to avoid detection, and carry bulletproof vests when reporting from conflict zones. The risk of imprisonment is constant, with a journalist acknowledging, “at any time any one of us again can be put in prison if we get caught.”

Editorial Standards and Verification

Despite the risks, Misma prioritizes maintaining high editorial standards. The editor-in-chief emphasizes the need for meticulous review of every detail in every story to protect the safety of reporters still operating inside Myanmar. This careful approach is essential given the heightened surveillance and potential consequences.

Financial Sustainability and Declining Funding

Beyond the immediate physical dangers, Misma faces a critical financial challenge. International donations, which were previously a vital source of funding, have dwindled as global attention has shifted away from Myanmar. The editor notes, “for the last 2 years we could not buy new equipments. So the equipments quality is going down which is a big worry for all of us.” This decline in resources threatens the quality and sustainability of their reporting.

Reporting on the Election and Public Sentiment

NHK World’s Kai Genki, who reported from Yangon, provides further context. Misma has been reporting on the flaws in the recent election process, highlighting testimonies from voters who claim they were pressured to vote in a specific manner. Examples include civil servants being questioned by their superiors about their voting choices. Misma broadcasts this information both domestically (via internet and radio) and internationally (through an English-language channel) to raise awareness of the situation.

Genki’s observations from Yangon reveal a city appearing outwardly calm, but potentially masking a climate of intense monitoring by the authorities. He notes a sense of resignation among residents, with many expressing disinterest in the election. One resident stated, “I have almost no hope things will improve… We run a business, so there is pressure from the authorities. In this case, we have no choice but to vote. Because of that pressure, we are forced to live in fear.” Another expressed pessimism about the future, stating, “These five years have been difficult… The next five are only going to be even more painful.”

Impact of the Election and International Response

The turmoil in Myanmar has had a significant negative impact on the economy, leading to soaring prices and a mass exodus of young people. The report notes that while countries like China and Russia support the election, most of the international community, including Western nations and the UN, deem it illegitimate. However, it emphasizes that international criticism alone is insufficient to achieve a democratic resolution.

Misma’s Commitment and Future Outlook

Despite the immense challenges, Misma remains steadfast in its commitment to independent journalism. The editor-in-chief declares, “Whether this place is who rules that place that rule, who that place is, who rule that place for us, we have to reboot. So we will continue MIMA independent media channels working in the independent media houses will continue their work. This is our mission. This is our commitment.” This unwavering dedication underscores the importance of ensuring that news reaches the public, regardless of the circumstances.

Quote: “If our reporting helps someone learn the truth, then that's worth it for us.” – Misma Journalist.

Technical Terms

• CCTV: Closed-Circuit Television – A system of cameras used for surveillance.
• Junta: A military or political group that rules a country after taking power by force.
• Coup (d'état): A sudden, violent, and illegal seizure of power from a government.

Conclusion

The report paints a stark picture of the struggle for independent journalism in Myanmar. Misma’s story exemplifies the courage and resilience of journalists operating under extreme pressure, facing constant surveillance, financial hardship, and the threat of imprisonment. The widespread public resignation and the flawed election process highlight the deep-seated political crisis in the country. While international criticism is important, the report suggests that a more comprehensive approach is needed to support independent media and promote a democratic resolution in Myanmar. The unwavering commitment of Misma serves as a powerful reminder of the vital role of a free press in holding power accountable and informing the public.