will continue to face danger not only from the SAC networks. Ideally, journalists should never be ar- but potentially also from resistance-controlled rested in the first place. But once they are re- areas. The challenges will continue. leased, the possibility of returning to journalism is very limited due to multiple constraints. On the other hand, the SAC also operates its own controlled media inside the country. These media Finally, as World Press Freedom Day is approach- outlets continue functioning normally and are used ing, do you have any message? to show that “media exists” in Myanmar. They Journalists are part of those who build democracy. also invite international media selectively for Freedom of the press exists only where democracy appearances. So that system will likely continue. exists. Journalists are like fish, and democracy is At the same time, journalists in resistance-con- like water—without water, fish cannot survive. We trolled areas also face pressures. So, we estimate are people who truly need and want democracy. that the possibility of truly free journalism remains Those fighting for democracy and those fighting extremely limited. for press freedom share the same goal. Some journalists have been released, and some However, there are misunderstandings, differences have left the profession. How does this affect of opinion, and sometimes tensions between newsroom operations on the ground? journalists and political actors or groups with Recently, one of our editors at National Voice was different interests. Still, the fundamental goal is released from prison after more than three years un- the same. I want everyone to understand that we der detention. However, even after release, he has are all working toward democracy and the right not been able to return to work.This is due to trau- to free expression. ma from imprisonment, personal circumstances, and family responsibilities. At the same time, the newsroom does not have enough resources to provide full support or relocation assistance. For released journalists, returning to work is extremely difficult. Even if they relocate to countries like Thailand, they still struggle—having to rebuild sources, understand the evolving political situation again, and re-establish their reporting Update on Journalism and Media Safety in Myanmar 16