Narinjara marks 25 years amid press freedom challenges in Arakan

By Admin 07 Sep 2026

DMG Newsroom

7 September 2026, Sittwe

Narinjara News marked its 25^th anniversary on September 7, reaching a milestone for one of Arakan’s long-running ethnic media organisations at a time when independent journalism continues to face major political and security challenges in Arakan and across Myanmar.

Narinjara was founded on September 7, 2001, and its anniversary statement described its 25-year journey of providing news and information concerning Arakan and its people through changing political circumstances.

Over the past quarter-century, the outlet has reported on political, social and community affairs affecting Arakan while operating through periods of military rule, political transition and renewed armed conflict.

Narinjara’s history also reflects the development of ethnic media in Myanmar. Its anniversary account refers to earlier publication efforts, including Arakan Post, as well as cooperation and engagement with broader ethnic media networks as the organisation expanded its news operations.

The 25^th anniversary comes amid continuing challenges for independent media in Myanmar. Since the 2021 military coup, journalists and news organisations have worked in an increasingly difficult environment marked by conflict, restrictions on information and security threats.

The situation is particularly significant in Arakan, where the political and military landscape has changed dramatically as the United League of Arakan/Arakan Army (ULA/AA) has expanded its territorial control while fighting continues around remaining junta-held areas.

Journalists working in Arakan face armed conflict, airstrikes, communications difficulties, displacement and limited access to some areas. At the same time, the emergence of new governing structures has increased the importance of allowing independent media to report on governance, humanitarian conditions, civilian protection and human rights.

Independent journalism remains particularly important during conflict and political transition, when communities depend on reliable information and professional media to document developments affecting civilians.

Narinjara’s silver jubilee therefore represents not only a milestone for the organisation but also the continuing role of ethnic media in documenting Arakan’s political changes, conflicts and the experiences of local communities.

As Arakan’s political landscape continues to evolve, the ability of journalists to work independently and safely will remain important for public access to information, accountability and responsible governance.