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US To Host World Press Freedom Day

rekrowyalp writes "From the press release: 'The United States is pleased to announce that it will host UNESCO's World Press Freedom Day event in 2011. The United States places technology and innovation at the forefront of its diplomatic and development efforts. New media has empowered citizens around the world to report on their circumstances, express opinions on world events, and exchange information in environments sometimes hostile to such exercises of individuals' right to freedom of expression. At the same time, we are concerned about the determination of some governments to censor and silence individuals, and to restrict the free flow of information.' Oh the irony."

2 of 614 comments (clear)

  1. Re:wikileaks by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0, Troll

    Of course not.

    The problem is, at what point do you draw the line between completely free journalism, and responsible journalism?

    In the case of wikileaks, names of secret operatives were taken release - putting plenty people in a lot of immediate danger. Well over 99% of what they put out is good and important, but redacting a few names wouldn't have hidden the corruption (or at least, less than honest tactics) of the powers that be, without putting people at risk.

    At this point it could even be considered moving from irresponsible journalism to actual politicking under the guise of journalism.

    Yeah, the US overreacted, plenty of it's politicians *REALLY* overreacted, but Assange could have gotten the point across without putting lives in danger like he did.

  2. Re:Assange is the guest of honor by Anonymous Coward · · Score: 0, Troll

    You're blaming INTERPOL? Really? Swedish police issued an arrest warrant, and forwarded it on to INTERPOL. Should INTERPOL ignore warrants they don't like? Or I guess what you're really saying is INTERPOL should ignore warrants you don't like.