"Of particular concern is the targeted violence against journalists both reporting and participating in the popular protest demonstrations," said a statement from the International Press Freedom and Freedom of Expression Mission to Nepal. "This has included mass arrests of media persons and numerous incidents of journalists being brutally attacked by authorities while attempting to cover the demonstrations."

The coalition called on the king "to begin to take urgent steps toward restoration of democracy in Nepal."

The statement said over 100 journalists have been arrested and 24 journalists have been assaulted since April 6, when the current phase of the pro-democracy movement began (see former posting). At least 15 journalists remain in custody, and many were assaulted by police prior to arrest.

The statement was signed by 11 international freedom of expression organizations: Article 19, Free Voice, International Federation of Journalists, International Media Support, International Press Institute, Reporters sans Frontières, South Asia Press Commission, United Nationals Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO), World Association of Community Radio Broadcasters, World Association of Newspapers, and the World Press Freedom Committee.

Read the full statement at http://www.wan-press.org/article10089.html
Source: World Association of Newspapers