UNTC rejects initiatives that limit freedom of the press and expression

The National Union of Social Communication Workers (UNTC) expressed this Thursday its rejection of any legislative or regulatory initiative that, in its view, could restrict freedom of expression, freedom of the press, and the practice of journalism in the Dominican Republic.

Through a statement, the guild recalled that the Dominican Constitution, in its article 49, guarantees the fundamental right to freedom of expression and information, prohibits prior censorship, and recognizes the essential role of the media in a democratic society.

The organization also cited decisions by the Constitutional Court which, it indicated, have strengthened the protection of these rights. Among them, it mentioned rulings TC/0075/16 and TC/0092/19, which reaffirm the need to avoid disproportionate legal provisions that could affect journalistic practice or citizen participation.

The UNTC maintained that it recognizes the importance of practicing journalism with responsibility, respecting professional ethics, human dignity, the right to honor, privacy, and the presumption of innocence. However, it warned that the imposition of excessive sanctions or mechanisms that could be interpreted as a “gag law” represents a risk to democratic debate and the right of citizens to receive information.

Among his main concerns, he pointed out possible limitations on investigative journalism, the increase in self-censorship due to fear of disproportionate criminal or economic sanctions, and restrictions on public debate regarding matters of general interest.

Finally, the entity called on the Government, the National Congress, and the various sectors of society to promote a broad and transparent dialogue that allows for guaranteeing both the protection of fundamental rights and the preservation of freedom of expression, considered by the guild as one of the essential pillars of democracy.