World Headlines: How International Media Frames the Conviction of Maria Ressa
On June 15, the Manila Regional Trial Court found Maria Ressa, CEO of Rappler, guilty of cyber libel. The landmark decision set a precedent for future cases to be filed not only against journalists but also against ordinary citizens accused of cyber libel.
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“Today's verdict sets a dangerous precedent not only for journalists but for everyone online," Rappler said in a statement. "It weakens the ability of journalists to hold power to account as the one year prescription period of libel is extended to 12 years. Today marks diminished freedom and more threats to democratic rights supposedly guaranteed by the Philippine Constitution, especially in the context of a looming anti-terrorism law.”
Here is how international media views the conviction of Maria Ressa.
The New York Times
“Maria Ressa, Crusading Journalist, Is Convicted in Philippines Libel Case”
The Washington Post
“Conviction of Maria Ressa, hard-hitting Philippine American journalist, sparks condemnation”
BBC News
“Maria Ressa: The celebrated Philippine news boss enraging Duterte”
Aljazeera
“Maria Ressa found guilty in blow to Philippines’ press freedom”
The Japan Times
“‘Shocking judicial masquerade’: Philippine journalists’ case highlights global decline of press freedoms”
Democracy Now
“Filipina Journalist Maria Ressa Convicted in Major Blow to Press Freedom”
San Diego Union-Tribune
“Journalist Maria Ressa, online news site convicted of libel in ruling considered a blow to press freedom in Philippines”
Voice of America
“How Philippines Punished CEO of News Outlet That Posted Years of Critical Reports”
The Guardian
“Maria Ressa’s conviction should matter to everyone who cares about democracy”
Daily Mail
“Journalist critical of Philippines’ Duterte is sentenced to six years in jail after fixing a spelling mistake allowed her to be tried for libel over an article accusing a businessman of links to a murder”
ABC News
“Fears for Philippines press freedom as court finds Maria Ressa guilty of libel”
Nikkei Asian Review
“Philippines’ court finds journalist Maria Ressa guilty of libel”
Variety
“Philippines Convicts Maria Ressa, Rappler Editor, of Cyber Libel”
