Kathmandu: The Federation of Nepali Journalists (FNJ) has characterized 2023 as a challenging year for press freedom and freedom of expression, citing an increase in violations compared to the previous year.

In a press statement on the eve of the English New Year 2024, the FNJ reported 58 cases of press freedom violations, involving 74 male journalists, 13 women journalists, and five media organizations. This marks an increase from 53 cases in 2022.

The FNJ emphasized labor and professional insecurity as significant issues in the media sector, pledging to seek durable solutions through improved legal provisions in the upcoming year. The organization expressed concern about false accusations against the press by political figures and individuals in government positions during 2023, urging them to maintain professional decency and uphold the right to freedom of expression.

Additionally, the FNJ highlighted the slow progress in formulating communication laws and acts in 2023. It called on the government to expedite the drafting process, emphasizing the importance of considering fundamental rights enshrined in the Constitution, such as the right to freedom of expression and opinion, while formulating communication-related laws.

FNJ General Secretary Roshan Puri urged political parties and the government to take these issues seriously and ensure a robust legal framework to promote a free press and freedom of expression and opinion.