This February marks the sombre two-year anniversary of the military coup in Myanmar that abruptly ended the country’s progress toward democracy and freedom.

In the two years that have followed, the military junta has ruthlessly sought to crush the country’s pro-democracy movement. Authorities have also targeted the media, aiming to smother coverage of protests and the junta’s bloody crackdown. Scores of journalists faced arrest and violence, while the junta has revoked the licenses of independent media outlets and repeatedly blocked internet access. Numerous media have been forced into exile while still seeking to cover events for the benefit of their fellow citizens back home.

Amid multiple crises around the world, it’s crucial to not lose sight of what’s happening in Myanmar and to continue efforts to support the country’s journalists.

IPI is hosting this special press briefing with two leading Myanmar journalists to shed light on the current situation in the country and what 2023 holds for the fight to protect press freedom and democracy in Myanmar.

Online press briefing with:

• Soe Myint, Founding Editor-in-Chief and Managing Director, Mizzima Media Group, Myanmar
• Thin Lei Win, freelance journalist

Moderator: Scott Griffen, IPI Deputy Director