Independent journalists establish Arakha Press Council to protect media freedom

By Admin 22 Jun 2026

DMG Newsroom

22 June 2026, Ponnagyun

A group of 33 independent domestic and exiled Arakanese journalists has established the Arakha Press Council (APC) to support media development, protect frontline reporters, and promote press freedom amid escalating conflict, the organization announced Monday.

The APC was formed following a series of collaborative meetings that began on June 14 and concluded with the council’s official launch.

The council will operate as an independent, self-sustaining professional body focused on strengthening the media sector in Arakan State and addressing challenges facing journalists working in conflict zones.

"Our primary goal is to systematically develop the Arakha media sector through constructive engagement," said Ma Kay Zu, interim spokesperson of the APC.

"Arakan State has become a focus of international attention, which has also led to the spread of state-sponsored disinformation and fake news. The APC will work to support fact-checking, uphold professional standards, and ensure the safety and development of journalists," she added.

According to its charter, the APC will focus on expanding access to information, promoting media ethics, protecting media workers, and providing journalism capacity-building programmes.

Ma Kay Zu emphasized that the council is not intended to oppose any governing authority but serves as a professional platform dedicated to supporting independent media.

"The next step is to hold a general conference to bring together more experts and finalize our organizational structure," she said. "We will then formally inform the United League of Arakan while developing connections with international press freedom organizations to support local journalists."

She added that the council will develop short-term and long-term security measures while serving as a communication bridge between media organizations and local authorities.

The establishment of the APC comes as journalists in Arakan State face increasing risks due to junta-enforced information restrictions and ongoing armed conflict.

Frontline reporters continue to work under dangerous conditions, including air strikes, artillery attacks, and landmine threats, often without adequate protective equipment.

Local reporter Ma Khin Tharaphi Oo said female journalists face particular challenges while covering conflict zones.

"Reporting from active war zones in Arakan State is extremely dangerous, especially for female journalists," she said. "The APC will provide an important support system for women and all frontline reporters who risk their lives to document events on the ground."

The APC said membership remains open to all independent Arakanese journalists. The organization is currently led by an interim steering committee that is preparing its constitution and long-term strategy ahead of a future general assembly.