Digital Content Next (DCN), a trade association representing more than 80 high-quality media companies, said, “It is vital we value and protect the independence of media organizations and journalists around the world. Any effort to silence journalists or use news organizations as a bargaining chip is an affront to freedom.”

DCN adds its voice to the many respected organizations and media outlets in condemning the demands made by Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, Egypt, and Bahrain. According to a report in The Washington Post their demands included shutting down all news outlets the country operates. In a statement, Al Jazzera described the demand for its closure by the countries boycotting Qatar as ” nothing but an attempt to silence the freedom of expression in the region and to suppress people’s right to information and the right to be heard. ”

We proudly join a growing list of organizations in support of DCN member, Al Jazzera:

• NGOs supporting including Committee to Protect Journalists, Human Rights Watch, Reporters without Borders
• The New York Times Editorial Board
• The Guardian