IAPA asks for more guarantees to practice journalism in Ecuador
The Inter American Press Association (IAPA,) presented seven general points to demand the Ecaudorian Government more guarantees to the guild and journalistic practice, who say they feel “threatened” due to the the new Communications Law and constant attacks on the press.
In its report and resolution, about Ecuador and its already passed Communication Act, which took effect in June, says that the so-called “gag law” violates constitutional provisions and international human rights. Also, questioned the creation of some “government agencies” with power to control media ownership, impose censorship, manipulate contents, to decide who may or may not be a journalist and make new press offenses for the benefit authorities and public officials on citizens.”
IAPA, which gathers newspapers and publications around the continent, noted the contradiction between prohibiting prior censorship and, in turn, establish the liability of the owners of the media on which it is published. They also expressed concern about the requirement of a university degree for the practice of journalism and the possibility of punishment if not corrected and published public apologies requested by the superintendent.