Taiwan

New York, August 10, 2005—The Committee to Protect Journalists condemns the Taiwanese government's recent actions against the cable television news station ETTV-S. The government halted the station's broadcasts and revoked its license last week, citing "irresponsible" reporting.

The Government Information Office, the official agency tasked with monitoring the media, accused the station of abusing broadcast guidelines with sensational coverage of sex scandals and crime, and of airing false news. ETTV-S continued to broadcast its programming this week through sister channels.

AUGUST 3, 2005
Posted: August 18, 2005

ETTV-S
CENSORED

The Taiwanese government halted the broadcasts of cable television news station ETTV-S and revoked its license, citing "irresponsible" reporting. The Government Information Office, the official agency tasked with monitoring the media, accused the station of abusing broadcast guidelines with sensational coverage of sex scandals and crime, and of airing false news. ETTV-S continued to broadcast its programming through sister channels.

Overview
by Abi Wright

Threats to press freedom spiked throughout Asia in 2004, even as the news media claimed significant accomplishments. Across the region, 2004 was an election year, with citizens casting ballots in nations such as Afghanistan, whose landmark vote was peaceful and orderly, and India, where more than 370 million went to the polls. Informing voters and guarding against abuses, the press was credited with playing key roles in these and other elections.

Taiwan

In 2004, the competitive and outspoken Taiwanese press reported critically on the government, corruption, and world affairs. Taiwanese journalists faced largely economic pressures, and the highly partisan coverage of a contentious election year raised questions about financial and political influence over the press.