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Check FAQAbout Laurel
Laurel Bowman is a journalist based in Washington, United States of America. Laurel Bowman is an award-winning television journalist with more than two decades of production and on-camera experience in the television news and production industry. Her work has aired on the Voice of America (VOA), NBC News, the BBC, National Geographic, PBS, Associated Press Television News and CNBC Asia. Most recently, Laurel worked as an on-air reporter for VOA's Africa54, a one-hour daily news show with distribution in more than a dozen countries. She also worked as a general news reporter for VOA, as well as a long-time producer for NBC News. She also reported for CNBC Asia in Hong Kong as a staffer, and she has freelanced for numerous other television news organizations. Laurel produces news stories, investigative stories and feature stories, and appears on-camera live or taped to present her work. Laurel's documentary work includes three original films: a 30-minute original documentary shot in Tanzania and Kenya on traditional healing in the age of HIV/AIDS (which aired on PBS); an original agency video for the international NGO, CHF International (in corporate video style), shot in Indonesia, Lebanon, Poland and Kenya; and a film on pirates, which was re-versioned into smaller pieces that aired at National Geographic's exhibit hall, as part of a presentation on pirates. These pieces also aired in traveling exhibits at various art museums around the country. She has extensive experience in shooting, setting up shoots, scripting and re-versioning pieces and working with existing video. Laurel graduated cum laude from Georgetown University’s School of Foreign Service. She earned her master’s degree from the Graduate School of Journalism at Columbia University, where she was a fellow with the Alfred I. duPont Center for Broadcast Journalism. Her awards for team reporting include the Edward R. Murrow, the Gracie, the Clarion and the Cine Golden Eagle.
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International Students Discuss Life on Ohio Campus
International students at Miami University in Ohio share their experiences, highlighting the friendliness of Americans compared to Japan. Brown University, along with Yale, Dartmouth, and M.I.T., reinstates standardized test scores for applicants, with The New York Times noting their predictive value for future performance. Ohio's attorney general directs public colleges to end race-based merit scholarships, aligning with a 2023 Supreme Court decision. The Greek parliament votes to allow foreign universities to establish branch campuses, aiming to retain Greek students for advanced studies, as reported by U.S. News & World Report.
Reproductive Rights Key for Voters in Next US Presidential Election
US President Joe Biden is emphasizing women's health and reproductive rights in his campaign for the upcoming November 5th election, positioning it against former President Donald Trump, the Republican challenger, who has yet to fully articulate his stance on abortion.
Survey: Most College Students Happy With Their Choices
Most college students in the United States are satisfied with their college choices, according to a survey reported by Forbes. Texas A&M University's closure of its Qatar campus highlights concerns over foreign espionage, funding, and global instability. Data from Project Atlas indicates a post-pandemic resumption of international studies, with the U.S., U.K., and Canada experiencing rebounds in international student numbers. Land-grant universities in the U.S., which focus on practical education, face budgetary and political challenges.
Impact of COVID-19 Remains Among International Students in the US
International students in the US, such as those from India and Mongolia, express mixed feelings about the shift from online to in-person learning post-COVID-19. While some students prefer face-to-face interactions, others appreciate the flexibility of online options. University staff have adapted by offering more virtual services, which have been well-received. The pandemic has led to a lasting change in higher education, with a blend of online and in-person learning becoming the norm.
Mental Health a Concern for International Students Studying in the US
Mental health is a significant concern on U.S. college campuses, with universities actively monitoring students' wellbeing. International students in the U.S. report facing unique challenges in this regard. The report by Laurel Bowman highlights these issues, with camera and video editing by Saqib Ul Islam.
Women's Reproductive Rights at the Center of Biden's Campaign. Trump's Position Still Unclear
American President Joe Biden is centering women's health and reproductive rights in his campaign ahead of the November 5 elections. Biden, a Democrat, will face Republican candidate and former President Donald Trump, who has spoken about abortion but has not fully clarified his stance.
US University Education Expensive but Within Reach for Foreign Students
Attending a four-year American college or university can cost international students between $40,000 to $80,000 per academic year. However, there are ways for these students to significantly reduce these expenses.
Amid War in the Middle East, Tensions Grow on US Campuses
The Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) reported a significant drop in the percentage of Black, Hispanic, Native American, and Pacific Islander students in its incoming freshman class following the U.S. Supreme Court's ban on affirmative action in college admissions. The ruling has led to changes in recruitment and admissions strategies across U.S. colleges. Meanwhile, California announced a $250 million deal to support local journalism and AI research, marking the end of a legislative battle with tech giants. Additionally, New College of Florida faced backlash for discarding books from its gender studies program, highlighting ongoing cultural and political tensions.
Getting a US Student Visa: Here's How
A U.S. presidential advisory council approved a student exchange program between Spelman College and the University of Lagos to enhance education, health, entrepreneurship, and development collaboration between Africa and its diaspora. The council, created by President Joe Biden, visited a USAID-supported health facility in Nigeria, emphasizing the importance of diaspora-led investments. Concurrently, Bangladesh witnessed violent protests over a government jobs quota system favoring war veterans' families, leading to multiple deaths and injuries. The protests, demanding merit-based appointments, have been met with criticism from government officials and accusations of political manipulation.
Saharan Africa Behind Surge of International Students
A U.S. presidential advisory council approved a student exchange deal between an American college and a Nigerian university to strengthen collaboration in education, health, entrepreneurship, and development between Africa and its diaspora. The council visited a USAID-supported health facility in Abuja, Nigeria, and signed an agreement for education exchange programs between Spelman College and the University of Lagos. The council, created by President Joe Biden, aims to promote African diaspora-led investments and improve U.S.-Africa relations. Nigerian officials expressed satisfaction with the council's visit and support.
Police Departments Dig Deeper to Attract Recruits
There is a nationwide shortage of police officers in the US, attributed to a tight labor market and negative perceptions following incidents where officers killed unarmed Black individuals. Despite these challenges, many new recruits in the Washington area are motivated to create a better and kinder police force.
Police Departments Across US Dig Deeper to Attract Recruits
Police departments across the United States are facing recruitment challenges due to a tight labor market and negative perceptions of policing. Recruits like Nancy Laroche and John Cox are joining the force to foster positive community relations. Departments, including the Metropolitan Police Department in Washington, are employing creative strategies such as offering signing bonuses and advertising on social media to attract candidates. The issue of police funding remains contentious, with differing views among Democrats and Republicans. Despite the challenges, police work continues to attract individuals committed to serving their communities.
Will US-China Rivalry End Student Exchanges?
The number of American students studying in China has plummeted from around 11,000 in 2019 to 800 in 2023, raising concerns about the future of US-China cultural and academic exchanges. David Moser, former academic director of China Educational Tours (CET), highlights the significant loss of potential 'China experts' for the US. CET's programs in China have been drastically reduced, while its projects in Taiwan are thriving. Factors contributing to the decline include China's pollution, human rights issues, strict COVID-19 lockdowns, and a revised counterespionage law. Despite efforts by Chinese President Xi Jinping to encourage American students to visit China, incidents like the stabbing of American teachers in Jilin have further strained relations. The asymmetry in student exchanges, with 300,000 Chinese students in the US compared to 800 Americans in China, is seen as detrimental to the US.
Fraud Verdict Pending for Hong Kong's Jimmy Lai
Media mogul Jimmy Lai is set to return to court as he faces three separate cases, including charges under Hong Kong’s national security law. The Apple Daily founder's legal battles continue to draw attention.
Hong Kong Publisher Jimmy Lai Convicted of Fraud
Hong Kong publisher Jimmy Lai has been convicted of fraud related to a lease agreement, alongside former colleagues Wong Wai-keung and Royston Chow. The case is seen as part of a broader crackdown on press freedom and democracy in Hong Kong, with Lai facing additional charges under the National Security Law. Human rights lawyer Caoilfhionn Gallagher and media analysts argue that the legal actions against Lai symbolize a decline in press freedoms and are intended to silence independent journalism. The article highlights the broader implications for press freedom in Hong Kong, noting a significant drop in press freedom rankings and the closure of several independent news outlets.
Madison Launches Program to Cover Indigenous Students' Full Costs
Indigenous students from Wisconsin's 11 tribes will be able to attend the University of Wisconsin-Madison for free starting next fall, as announced by Chancellor Jennifer Mnookin. The Wisconsin Tribal Education Promise program will cover all costs for undergraduate students, including tuition, fees, housing, meals, and books, using private donations and internal funding. The program also extends to law and medical degrees. This initiative is part of UW-Madison's ongoing commitment to diversity, despite recent political challenges regarding diversity hires. The program is expected to significantly impact Indigenous youth by removing financial barriers to higher education.
Can Digital Learning Save Higher Ed?
Youth unemployment in China reached nearly 19% in August, prompting more college graduates to pursue further education to escape the competitive job market. The trend of increasing postgraduate enrollments is evident in several Chinese universities, driven by economic challenges and the need for advanced degrees in certain fields. Experts highlight the imbalance between higher education and vocational training, leading to a surplus of highly educated individuals and a shortage of technical workers. Additionally, the geopolitical tension between China and the U.S. has made studying abroad more difficult. In a related development, the University of California board of regents approved additional non-lethal weapons for UCLA police, sparking criticism from students and faculty over their use during protests.
Analysts: Abortion, an Important Issue in the US Presidential Elections
President Joe Biden has made women's health and reproductive rights a central theme of his campaign for the November 5 elections. He is expected to face former President Donald Trump, who has spoken about abortion but has not fully clarified his position. Biden recently signed an executive order expanding government studies on women's health issues and promised funding for reproductive health research. He urged voters to elect a Democrat-controlled Congress to restore Roe v. Wade.
Nobel Prize in Medicine Winner a ‘Patron Saint’ to ‘Undervalued, Unappreciated and Unrecognized’
Katalina Karikó, who fled authoritarian Hungary and faced numerous professional challenges, won the Nobel Prize in Medicine for her pioneering work in mRNA technology used in the COVID-19 vaccine. Dr. Priya E. Mammen lauds Karikó's achievements as heroic. Separately, Dr. Julio Frenk, a global public health researcher, has been appointed as the next chancellor of UCLA amid ongoing campus protests related to Israel's war against Hamas in Gaza. Frenk, who has a distinguished career in public health, will succeed Gene Block and assumes his role in January 2025. The article also highlights the protests and calls for divestment from companies with ties to Israel, as well as the criticism of UC administrators and police actions.
International Students Experience US Holiday Culture
Australian university leaders met with Chinese counterparts to discuss the Canberra government's plans to reduce international student numbers, aiming to ease housing stress and reduce immigration. The Group of Eight Universities emphasized the economic and social benefits of international education. Meanwhile, Afghanistan faces criticism for excluding women from higher education, with the Taliban's policies significantly limiting the country's economic potential and contributing to high female mortality rates. Efforts by international bodies and the U.S. Department of State to advocate for Afghan women's rights have yet to yield changes in Taliban policies.
Research Helps Applicants Be More Competitive
U.S. colleges, including St. Cloud State University, are facing significant budget challenges, leading to the elimination of degree programs and creating turmoil for students and faculty. Factors contributing to these cuts include the end of federal COVID relief funds, rising operational costs, and declining college enrollment. Experts warn that the trend of program cuts and college closures may continue as institutions struggle to adapt to a shrinking pool of prospective students and financial constraints. The impact is particularly severe for students in smaller programs and the humanities, with music programs notably affected.
Activists Mark 5-Year Anniversary of Journalist Khashoggi's Slaying
Five years after journalist Jamal Khashoggi's killing in Istanbul, U.S. intelligence implicates Saudi leadership. Despite this, U.S.-Saudi relations are normalizing, causing disappointment among press freedom and rule-of-law advocates.
US Supreme Court Overturns Roe v. Wade
The U.S. Supreme Court has overturned the Roe v. Wade decision, ending the constitutional right to abortion and leaving the decision to permit the procedure to individual states. It is anticipated that approximately half of the states will choose to restrict or ban abortions.
Effects of Covid Still Present Among International Students in America
The Covid-19 pandemic has significantly impacted students worldwide, disrupting their studies and weakening their social skills. However, both college counselors and international students who have returned to in-person studies in the United States note some positive outcomes from the pandemic.
In Hong Kong, Media Trials Chill Press Freedom
Media mogul Jimmy Lai faces multiple legal cases in Hong Kong, reflecting a significant decline in press freedom in the city. Analysts highlight the chilling effect these media trials have on journalistic practices. The report includes contributions from VOA’s Laurel Bowman, with footage by Saqib Islam and graphics by Ted Benson.
Residents Mourn 10 Killed in Buffalo, New York, Mass Shooting
A community mourns the 10 people killed in Buffalo, New York, when a lone gunman opened fire at a supermarket in a predominantly Black neighborhood. The U.S. is investigating the killings as a hate crime.
COVID-19 Effects Linger Among International Students in US
The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted the studies and social skills of students worldwide, including international students in the United States. However, college counselors and returning students have noted some positive outcomes from the pandemic experience.
Police Departments Across US Dig Deeper to Attract Recruits
Police departments across the U.S. are facing a shortage of officers, attributed to a tight labor market and negative perceptions following incidents where officers killed unarmed Black individuals. Despite these challenges, many new recruits in and around Washington are motivated to create a better and kinder police force.
Colorado Club Shooting Suspect Held on Preliminary Murder, Hate Crimes Charges
The suspect in a shooting at a gay club in Colorado that resulted in five deaths and 18 injuries is being held on preliminary murder and hate crime charges, as reported by media citing court records.
Mental Health on Minds of International Students Studying in US
Mental health is a significant topic on U.S. college campuses, with universities actively engaging with students to ensure their well-being. International students in the U.S. find this concern both novel and welcome.
How did the pandemic affect education?
The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted education worldwide, including in the United States, where many students fell behind due to the shift to online learning. High school seniors like Blaze Jones, Lea Saba, Caroline Norton, and Tyler Judd share their experiences of academic challenges and personal growth during the pandemic. While some students struggled with subjects like English and mathematics, they also found value in increased family time and social interactions. Despite the setbacks, these students are optimistic about their future as they prepare for university.
Soon-to-Be Graduates Put COVID Behind Them
During the COVID-19 pandemic, students worldwide, including in the U.S., experienced learning delays despite access to online education. Soon-to-be graduates report being behind in certain subjects due to missed school time. VOA’s Laurel Bowman interviewed high school seniors approaching graduation, with camera work by Adam Greenbaum and Saqib Ul Islam.
Record Snowpack, Atmospheric River Storms Ease California’s Drought for Now
California is experiencing significant rainstorms known as 'atmospheric rivers' and a massive snowpack in the mountains, which are expected to cause more flooding in the state that was previously suffering from drought. Scientists attribute these extreme weather events to climate change.
United States Marks 1 Million Deaths From COVID-19
The United States has surpassed one million deaths due to COVID-19, contributing to a global toll of over 15 million. U.S. researchers are reflecting on the past two years, analyzing the demographics and reasons behind the fatalities. The report by VOA's Laurel Bowman delves into the impact and distribution of these deaths across the country.
Racial Diversity at Johns Hopkins Could Be in Trouble
Columbia University began suspending pro-Palestinian activists after failing to end a protest against Israel's war in Gaza. The university's actions have sparked a nationwide debate over freedom of expression and antisemitism on campuses. Protests have resulted in numerous arrests and have led to a range of administrative responses. The White House and Senate Republican Leader Mitch McConnell have commented on the situation, emphasizing the need for peaceful protest and condemning antisemitism. The protests began in response to Israel's offensive in Gaza and have been met with both support and criticism.
What’s It Like to Come to America as an Undergraduate?
Thousands of international students arrive at American universities and colleges annually. VOA's Laurel Bowman spoke with four students who recently started their studies in the Washington area, with camera work by Adam Greenbaum and Saqib Ul Islam.
Clad in White, 2,000 Enjoy Posh Picnic at Washington's National Mall
Le Diner en Blanc, a global event that started in Paris, has been celebrated in Washington since 2014, with around 25,000 attendees over the years. The event features a posh picnic where participants dress in white and gather at the National Mall.
Model UN - Developing Student Skills in Maryland
Students at a high school in Maryland participating in Model UN find a platform to discuss significant global issues while honing their public speaking and research skills.
High School Students Take on Global Issues at Model UN
Students at a Maryland high school are participating in Model UN, where they engage in debates on global issues, enhancing their public speaking and research abilities. The event is covered by VOA's Laurel Bowman with camera work by Saqib Ul Islam.
As News Deserts Spread Across US, Trust Breaks Down
The spread of news deserts in the United States, driven by economic challenges and media company buyouts, is leading to increased misinformation and a decline in public trust in media. This phenomenon is highlighted in a report from Marion, Kansas, by Laurel Bowman for VOA News, with video by Saqib Ul Islam.
Chinese Students Abroad Face ‘A Tale of Two Fears’
A U.S. presidential advisory council approved a student exchange deal between Spelman College and Nigeria's University of Lagos to strengthen collaboration in education, health, and entrepreneurship. The council, created by President Joe Biden, aims to promote African diaspora-led investments. During their visit to Nigeria, council members toured a USAID-supported health facility and signed the education exchange agreement. Meanwhile, in Bangladesh, violent protests erupted over a controversial government jobs quota system favoring war veterans' families, leading to multiple deaths and injuries. The protests, demanding merit-based appointments, have continued despite government and court interventions.
Biden Honors Slain Black Teen Emmett Till With Memorial Proclamation
Emmett Till, a 14-year-old Black teenager, was kidnapped, tortured, and killed in Mississippi in 1955, an event that became a catalyst for the civil rights movement in the United States. President Joe Biden honored Till and his mother's advocacy with a memorial proclamation, recognizing their significant impact on civil rights.
How did the pandemic affect education?
During the COVID-19 pandemic, students in many countries, including the United States, where most people had access to online education, fell behind in their studies. Students who are about to graduate report that they are lagging in some subjects. VOA spoke with students preparing to graduate.
US Climate Envoy John Kerry Reopens Climate Talks in Beijing
U.S. Special Presidential Envoy for Climate John Kerry and his team met with their Chinese counterparts in Beijing this week. The meetings were short on specifics and drew mixed reviews from close watchers of the climate talks.
Supporters, Opponents React After Supreme Court Ends Affirmative Action
The US Supreme Court ruled that colleges and universities can no longer use race systematically in the admissions process, overturning decades of precedent. Reactions from supporters and opponents were captured by VOA’s Laurel Bowman outside the court shortly after the decision was announced.
Experts, Activists Review Tumultuous Year Since US Court Ruling on Abortion
The article reviews the year since the U.S. Supreme Court overturned Roe v. Wade, highlighting the political and regulatory changes across U.S. states regarding abortion. The decision has significantly influenced U.S. campaigns and elections, making the issue more politically crucial.
Some US Lawmakers Unhappy With Proposed PGA-LIV Golf Merger
The PGA Tour and Saudi Arabia-backed LIV Golf, previously engaged in legal battles, announced a commercial merger, causing alarm among some U.S. senators. The merger represents a significant shift in men's professional golf, blending two competing entities.
What Are US Diplomats Doing to Further International Education?
Thousands of Bangladeshi university students protested against the discriminatory quota system for government jobs, demanding a merit-based system. Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina condemned the protests, citing a court ruling. The article also discusses the financial challenges faced by international students in the U.S., offering strategies for overcoming these hurdles, such as community college enrollment, on-campus employment, and proactive financial planning. Additionally, it highlights the unique challenges faced by LGBTQ+ international students, emphasizing the importance of supportive communities and resources.
Croatian Student Earning Simultaneous Ph.D.s in US, Croatia
A Croatian student, Borna Nemet, is simultaneously earning two Ph.D.s, one at the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, and another at the University of Zagreb in Croatia. He studies educational leadership and effectiveness at UNLV during the day and teaches students at the University of Zagreb via Zoom at night.
It’s Graduation Season – Who Might Speak at Yours?
LGBTQ+ international students, like David Zhou, face unique challenges during Pride Month, balancing their LGBTQ+ identity with their cultural background. Zhou, a transgender graduate student from China, finds solace in supportive LGBTQ+ communities in the U.S. but remains cautious about disclosing his identity. The article highlights the difficulties LGBTQ+ international students encounter, including isolation and lack of specific support groups, and emphasizes the importance of safe spaces and advocacy work provided by university resource centers.
Son of Imprisoned Hong Kong Publisher Jimmy Lai Addresses US Congressional Panel
Sebastien Lai, son of imprisoned Hong Kong pro-democracy campaigner and media mogul Jimmy Lai, defended his father and called for his release during a recent address to the U.S. Congress. He also spoke with VOA’s Laurel Bowman, emphasizing the need for international support for his father's cause.
Record Settlement by Fox News in Defamation Lawsuit
Fox News paid a $787.5 million settlement in a defamation lawsuit related to its coverage of Donald Trump's false allegations of election rigging in 2020, avoiding a trial.
Air National Guard Member Charged in Documents Leak
Twenty-one-year-old Massachusetts Air National Guard member Jack Teixeira appeared in court to face charges of unauthorized retention and transmission online of national defense information and unauthorized removal of classified documents.
21-year-old American Arrested in Leak of Pentagon War Documents
U.S. authorities have arrested a 21-year-old American working on a U.S. military base in connection with the leak of classified intelligence documents, including secrets about the war in Ukraine.
Ukraine War Documents Related to Western Countries Leak on Social Media
Leaked documents on social media, marked as secret, detail Western efforts to bolster Ukrainian forces ahead of a planned spring offensive. Analysts suggest the documents, while appearing genuine, have been manipulated to mislead about the strength of Ukraine's ties with Western allies. The leaks, which do not cover actual battlefield strategies, aim to portray a weakened relationship between Ukraine and its partners, a claim refuted by Ukrainian officials who assert strong cooperation. The impact of these leaks on the ongoing conflict remains uncertain.
Former US President Donald Trump Tells Supporters He’ll Be Arrested
Former U.S. President Donald Trump announced he expects to be arrested by the Manhattan district attorney on charges related to a $130,000 payment made to porn star Stormy Daniels in 2016. The announcement has sparked reactions among U.S. political leaders.
Why are women withdrawing from leadership positions?
Several prominent female leaders have recently resigned from their positions, citing personal reasons and the challenging environment for women in leadership. Nicola Sturgeon stepped down as Scotland's First Minister, emphasizing the personal toll of political engagement. Jacinda Ardern resigned as New Zealand's Prime Minister to focus on her family, while Nancy Pelosi left her role as the Democratic leader in the U.S. House of Representatives. Experts suggest that the current systems and structures, historically designed by men, are not conducive to female leadership. Studies indicate that women in business seek better pay and work conditions, often preferring remote work to balance family responsibilities. Despite these challenges, there are positive trends, such as increased part-time work opportunities in Europe and higher representation quotas for women in business. Cultural acceptance of female leadership varies, with Scandinavian countries showing strong support due to long-standing institutionalization of gender equality in leadership roles.
Female Leaders Stepping Down From High-Profile Jobs
Prominent women around the world are leaving their high-profile jobs to pursue other interests and focus on different priorities, highlighting a trend of female leaders stepping down from their positions.
People on the Move Again in China This Lunar New Year
Millions of Chinese people are preparing to travel and reunite with relatives for the Lunar New Year, taking advantage of the relaxed zero-COVID policies in Beijing. While the festivities are a cause for celebration, there are concerns about the potential spread of infection during the holiday.
Second Batch of Biden Classified Documents Raises Concerns
President Biden's lawyer disclosed that additional documents were found at Biden's Delaware home, following the earlier discovery of classified documents from the Obama-Biden administration at a Washington think tank. VOA's Laurel Bowman reports on the situation.
Second Batch of Classified Documents Found at Biden Delaware Home
President Joe Biden’s lawyer announced the discovery of additional classified documents at Biden's Delaware home. This follows the earlier discovery of classified documents from the Obama-Biden administration at a Washington think tank where Biden had an office post-vice presidency.
US Experts Warn of New Coronavirus Subvariant
The United States is facing a new subvariant of COVID-19 known as XBB.1.5 as the pandemic enters its fourth year. Concurrently, China is experiencing a surge in cases following the end of its zero-COVID policy. VOA’s Laurel Bowman provides the report.
Protests in Iran, China, Russia Give Democracy Proponents Hope
Analysts are observing recent protest movements in Iran, China, and Russia, noting the strength of the authoritarian regimes there. While these movements give hope to proponents of democracy, experts warn that a specific combination of factors is necessary for dictatorial governments to be overthrown.
Media Freedom Suffers Record Setbacks Globally in 2022
The easing of COVID-19 restrictions in 2022 allowed more journalists to be out on assignments, but this, coupled with the expansion of deadly conflicts, led to a significant increase in the killings and imprisonments of journalists.
Violence, War and New Laws Increase Risks for Media in 2022
In 2022, journalists faced increased risks due to the war in Ukraine, violence in Mexico, and repressive laws in countries like Russia and Myanmar. Reporters Without Borders documented a significant rise in journalists being detained, held hostage, and killed. Iran, China, and Myanmar were among the top jailers of journalists. Russia's invasion of Ukraine led to severe restrictions on media, while Mexico saw its deadliest year for journalists. In Afghanistan, the Taliban's return resulted in a significant decline in press freedom. The article underscores the global challenges to media freedom and the dangerous conditions journalists endure.
Violence, War, and New Laws Increased Risks for Media in 2022
In 2022, journalists faced increased risks due to the war in Ukraine, violence in Mexico, and repressive laws in countries like Russia and Myanmar. Reporters Without Borders documented a significant rise in journalists being detained, taken hostage, or killed. Iran, China, and Myanmar were among the top countries imprisoning journalists. The war in Ukraine and protests in Iran were particularly dangerous for media personnel. In Mexico, targeted violence against journalists led to the deadliest year for the press. Repressive governments, including those in Afghanistan and China, continued to censor and imprison journalists, severely impacting press freedom globally.
Violence, war, and new laws increased risks for the media in 2022
In 2022, journalists faced increased risks due to violence, war, and repressive laws, with Mexico, Ukraine, and Haiti being the deadliest countries. The war in Ukraine and violence in Mexico, along with repressive measures in Russia, Myanmar, and Iran, contributed to a challenging year for the media. Reporters Without Borders documented a significant rise in journalists being detained, taken hostage, or killed. The article highlights the impact of these dangers on media operations and the personal safety of journalists, emphasizing the broader implications for press freedom and information dissemination.
Salman Rushdie Recovers After Brutal Attack
Salman Rushdie's health is improving after a brutal attack in New York, where he was stabbed in the neck and chest. The attacker, Hadi Matar, is a 24-year-old from New Jersey with alleged sympathies towards Hizbullah and Iran. Rushdie has been under threat since the 1988 publication of 'The Satanic Verses,' which led to a fatwa from Iran. The Iranian government denies involvement in the attack but blames Rushdie for provoking Muslim anger. The US Department of State reiterates the longstanding threat from Iran. The attacker has pleaded not guilty and is currently detained without bail.
The Inside Story-Democracy in America Episode 49
From a landmark Supreme Court decision on abortion to the investigation into the January 6th attack on the U.S. Capitol, America is grappling with divisive issues and seismic events.
Baby Formula Shortage in the US Challenges Families
A halt in production by one of the three companies making baby formula in the U.S. has exacerbated an existing shortage caused by supply chain issues and other factors. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration is actively working to ensure there is an adequate supply, while the White House is also taking measures to address the crisis.
The Inside Story-Press Freedom Spotlight Episode 38
Freedom of the press is increasingly under threat worldwide due to rising disinformation and authoritarian regimes. The episode highlights the dangers journalists face, the suppression of factual information by governments, and the journalists who have been killed in their pursuit of news.
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