IV.
Research Findings
Through an in-depth analysis of interview data and FGDs, we have outlined a structure
below that examines journalists’ key practices and perceptions regarding digital
security. Our starting point was an exploration of journalists’ reflections on the
current state of Myanmar, revealing that a pervasive state of fear significantly
influences their work, affecting not only their professional activities but also their
personal identities.
The following subsections will delve into three areas. First, we will examine the general
state of fear, providing an overview of the current situation in Myanmar as
experienced by journalists. Second, we will explore journalists’ perceived threats and
risks, investigating how these fears translate into their daily habits and actions. These
threats and risks are categorised into five areas: (1) identity risks; (2) travel risks; (3)
low-tech and analogue inspections; (4) crowdsourced surveillance; and (5) limited
support from media houses. A significant finding is the military junta’s reliance on
physical inspection and human surveillance networks over the high-tech digital
authoritarianism highlighted in various reports, suggesting the need to revisit our
approach to security in Myanmar.
We then explore journalists’ perspectives and approaches to their security. We
explore the gaps between physical and digital security by examining journalists’
tactical responses to immediate security challenges, the impossibility of migration to
secure channels, and the importance of maintaining an appearance of normalcy.
Following this, we briefly review various additional security practices. Finally, we
discuss the existing support available to journalists in Myanmar.
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