The Curious Curator's Book Blog

Written by Joel Simon, executive director of the Committee to Protect Journalists, this book explores the current state of journalism across the world. As information becomes increasingly important for business, politics, human rights, and conflict management, journalists (both traditional and a new breed of activist and citizen journalists) are under attack by governments, terrorists, and criminal organisations. The author looks at the various forms that censorship can take (kidnapping, imprisonment, torture, blackmail, government pressure, unemployment, bribery, to name a few), and concludes that the global fight for freedom of expression is in the best interests of everyone, both journalists and citizens.

Joel Simon discusses how new technological tools have blurred the line between journalists, activists, and witnesses; how China and other countries are attempting to control the Internet to make sure they do not lose control of information; how the US exploited its privileged position in regards to the Internet to build the largest surveillance program ever; how so-called Democratators claim to defend freedom and democracy while covertly manipulating the media under false pretences; and much more.

This book is an important read because, unfortunately, most people have very little understanding of what being a journalist entails, and just want free-to-access news, with no errors or typos, right after things happen. It’s not uncommon to hear someone say, in reaction to the kidnapping or killing of a journalist covering a dangerous situation: “Well, he/she knew about the risks and chose to take them, it was his/her decision”. The treatment of journalists is often relegated to the background, and as a result everyone suffers. It was deeply moving to read the stories of incredibly brave men and women who gave their lives for social justice and human rights, choosing to risk everything to uncover the hidden, mostly ugly side of stories. 

Recommended for anyone who is interested in the news and global affairs.

Note: I got this book for review purposes through NetGalley.