Myanmar Journalists Sentenced Under Counterterrorism Law

In Myanmar, journalists Myo Myint Oo and Aung San Oo from Dawei Watch have received harsh prison sentences of life and 20 years, respectively, under the country's Counterterrorism Law. These sentences, considered the most severe against journalists since the military coup in February 2021, reflect the ongoing crackdown on press freedom, with Myanmar ranking as one of the world's largest jailers of journalists. Dawei Watch's editor condemned the sentences as unjust and aimed at instilling fear among reporters. The military's actions come amid a civil war and widespread violence, with at least seven journalists killed and over 170 arrested since the coup. The military government has not publicly commented on the cases, further highlighting the repression of independent media.