Statement on freedom of expression at SBS

The Media, Entertainment & Arts Alliance has today written to SBS after concerning reports that some journalists at SBS have been pressured to remove their signature from an open letter urging balanced coverage of Palestinian perspectives in the current Middle East conflict.

It is a principle of freedom of speech that journalists have a right to express views about their profession and industry. Signing an open letter of this type is simply choosing to take part in legitimate discussion about journalism and the media.

We have advised SBS that any disciplinary action resulting from this expression of journalistic freedom will be strongly resisted by MEAA, and are seeking an urgent clarification of the broadcaster’s position.

UPDATE: After MEAA raised its concerns on Friday May 21, SBS has since confirmed that no disciplinary action will be taken against SBS staff who signed the open letter. We look forward to further discussions with the broadcaster to ensure the ongoing protection of journalistic freedom of expression