Brazilian Journalism Coalition Calls for Source Confidentiality Protection

The Brazilian Coalition in Defense of Journalism has spoken out against a recent decision by the Brazilian Federal Supreme Court (STF) that undermines press freedom in the country.

The coalition, which includes the Committee to Protect Journalists and nine other international and local organizations, has issued a joint statement condemning the STF's decision to violate a journalist's constitutional right to source confidentiality.

According to the statement, journalists, like any other citizens, are subject to the law and may be investigated for any crimes they have committed. However, the coalition argues that it is unacceptable to reverse the investigative process and violate the constitutional right to source confidentiality in order to gather information and find evidence of illegal activities.

The coalition is calling on the STF to uphold its history of upholding press freedom and to re-establish source confidentiality protection in accordance with the Brazilian Constitution.

## Press Freedom Under Threat

The decision by the STF has sparked concerns about the erosion of press freedom in Brazil. The coalition's statement highlights the importance of protecting journalists' right to confidentiality in order to ensure that they can continue to report on important issues without fear of retribution.

## A Threat to Journalism

The coalition's call to action is a reminder that the protection of source confidentiality is essential for the practice of journalism. Without this protection, journalists may be reluctant to report on sensitive or controversial topics, which could have serious consequences for the public's right to know.

## A Call to Action

The Brazilian Coalition in Defense of Journalism is urging the STF to take immediate action to re-establish source confidentiality protection in accordance with the Brazilian Constitution. The coalition believes that this is essential for upholding press freedom and ensuring that journalists can continue to report on important issues without fear of retribution.

The coalition's statement is a powerful reminder of the importance of protecting press freedom and the role that journalists play in holding those in power accountable.

The Brazilian Coalition in Defense of Journalism is made up of the following organizations:

| Organization | | --- | | Committee to Protect Journalists | | Article 19 | | Brazilian Association of Investigative Journalism | | Brazilian Association of Journalists | | Brazilian Press Association | | Institute for Press Freedom (FLIP) | | International Press Institute | | National Federation of Journalists | | World Press Freedom Committee |

The coalition's statement can be read in full in Portuguese here.