22:54, 4 January 2007

"Reporters without Borders" find Azerbaijan dangerous for journalists

Yesterday, the "Reporters without Borders" - international organization for defence of the freedom of press - made public their annual report on the situation with the freedom of press in the world in 2006. According to the document, last year the world lost a record number of journalists after 1994, namely, 81 persons (versus 63 in 2005). Losses were registered in 21 countries, but most of them (39 persons) were killed in Iraq and Gaza Sector.

56 reporters were kidnapped, 871 press employees were arrested, 1472 persons were attacked or threatened. 912 mass media outlets were subject to censorship.

Three journalists were killed in Russia (21 in total during Vladimir Putin's rule).

Work conditions for the press remained traditionally complicated in many countries of the third world with low level of democracy and freedoms.

The organization has recognized Azerbaijan to be a dangerous zone for journalism.