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This report summarises the findings of a three-week IPI mission to six Caribbean countries –Antigua and Barbuda, Guyana, Suriname, the Dominican Republic, Trinidad and Tobago and Curaçao – in April 2013.
During the visit, IPI delegates met with representatives of government, law enforcement, media, and civil society to encourage the repeal of outdated criminal defamation laws as part of IPI’s regional campaign for the repeal of such provisions.
The report also examines in detail other serious press freedom concerns in each country, including allegations of government discrimination in the awarding of broadcast licenses;the absence or inadequate implementation of freedom of information legislation; the use of state media to transmit political propaganda; unequal distribution of government advertising; and impunity for crimes committed against the media.
In addition, the report notes concerns, held by both government and private citizens, about media responsibility, and includes a call for media associations to take a more active role in promoting and enforcing ethical standards.
The findings for each country are accompanied by substantive recommendations for both governments and media practitioners.