IPCM Statement on World Press Freedom Day
May 3, 2026
On this World Press Freedom Day, May 3, the Independent Press Council Myanmar (IPCM) wishes to highlight the alarming and continuous decline of press freedom within Myanmar. Journalists across the country remain subject to systematic suppression and multi-faceted restrictions under the military regime.
According to the latest report by Reporters Without Borders (RSF), Myanmar ranks 166th out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index. The country remains designated in the “red zone,” signifying a catastrophic situation for media personnel.
Since the 2021 military coup, the state of press freedom in Myanmar has deteriorated annually. The military junta continues to impose lengthy prison sentences on journalists and persists in the arbitrary revocation of media licenses.
Most recently, on April 24, the junta announced the revocation of licenses for Chin World, Khonumthung News, and Now a days News agencies, alleging that their reporting undermined national security, the rule of law, and public tranquility. This followed the revocation of the Shwe Phee Myay news agency’s license on January 13.
From the onset of the coup until May 2026, over 200 journalists have been unjustly arrested. Many remain imprisoned under various charges. Among them, the health of detained journalist Ko Sai Zaw Thaike is a matter of grave concern, as he has been denied urgent and necessary medical treatment.
Despite the junta’s attempts to present a civilian facade of administration within a democratic framework, the reality is that independent media and journalists remain under constant threat.
The IPCM does not recognize the military junta’s authority. Most importantly, the IPCM condemns its revocation of media licenses and its suppression. We strongly demand the immediate and unconditional release of all unjustly detained journalists and call for an urgent end to the targeted persecution of media organizations.
Despite these mounting pressures, the IPCM reaffirms on this World Press Freedom Day that independent media will continue to stand firmly with the people. We remain committed to delivering accurate and timely information in accordance with professional media ethics.
Independent Press Council Myanmar (IPCM)
Media Contacts:
Ko Ko Zaw – Chairman (Signal: +95 925 580 3262)
Toe Zaw Latt – Secretary (Signal: +66 80 683 4240)