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The delegates of the WAPC meeting in Istanbul reaffirmed their commitment to support the struggles of all people for realization of the basic right of freedom of communication as recognized by the 19th Amendment to the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.
Delegates aknowleged that the world faces a rising tide of hostility toward journalists and media workers in virtually all members countries. The repeated jailing of journalists and media workers in Azerbaijan and Zimbabwe, imposition of harsh media laws such a Kenya’s Communications Bill 2008, use of tax laws in Turkey to silence media critics, closure of broadcast stations and intimidation of journalists in Malawi, and use of contempt of court powers to threaten journalists with jail for refusing to divulge their sources in the US, are but a few examples.
The WAPC resolved to develop strategic plans to better address these concerns through increased communication and advocacy on behalf of those affected.
Following discussions of media freedom, elections were held. The following officers chosen for three-year terms:
· President: Rt. Hon. Justice G.N. Ray, Chairman, Press Council India
· Vice President: Mr. Kajubi Mukajanga, Executive Director, Media Council Tanzania
· Secretary General: Chris Conybeare, President, Media Council Hawaii
· Treasurer: Mr. Oktay Ekşi, Chairman, Press Council Turkey
Meetings planned for 2010 will be hosted by the Press Council of Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus (March) and the Press Council of Nepal (October).
In closing, delegates expressed their sincere appreciation to the Press Council of Turkey, especially its Chairman Oktay Ekşi, Board member Dr.Tamer Atabarut, and the staff.
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