Us Congress 2023-2024 Regular Session

Us Congress House Bill HB4898

Introduced
7/26/23  

Caption

Global Press Freedom Act

Impact

The proposed Office of Press Freedom would be responsible for advancing the protection of journalists, engaging with foreign governments, and denouncing violations against press freedoms. This legislation reflects a policy shift that actively incorporates press freedom concerns into American diplomacy. If enacted, it is expected to enhance international collaboration on press freedom issues and support for journalists under threat, representing a proactive stance in defending journalism as a fundamental human right.

Summary

House Bill 4898, titled the 'Global Press Freedom Act', seeks to establish an Office of Press Freedom within the Department of State and create a dedicated curriculum on press freedom at the National Foreign Affairs Training Center. The intent behind the bill is to reinforce the United States' commitment to promoting and safeguarding press freedom both domestically and internationally, ensuring that the role of an independent press is recognized as crucial to democracy and national security. The establishment of an ambassador-at-large for press freedom is a significant focal point, aimed at coordinating U.S. efforts to address press freedom violations worldwide.

Contention

Despite its positive aims, the bill may face scrutiny regarding the potential implementation challenges and effectiveness in impact measurement. Critics might question the ability of the U.S. government to influence foreign nations' practices concerning press freedom, especially in environments that are increasingly hostile towards journalists. Further, the need for adequate funding and resources to support the activities of the new office is likely to be a point of contention as lawmakers consider the financial implications of such initiatives.

Companion Bills

US SB2526

Related Global Press Freedom Act

Previously Filed As

US SB2526

Global Press Freedom Act

US HR357

Responding to growing threats to freedom of the press and expression around the world, reaffirming the centrality of a free and independent press to the health of democracy, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance on World Press Freedom Day.

US HB5855

Jamal Khashoggi Protection of Activists and Press Freedom Act of 2023

US HR1192

Recognizing widening threats to freedom of the press and free expression around the world, reaffirming the vital role that a free and independent press plays in countering the growing threats of authoritarianism, misinformation, and disinformation, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2024.

US SB962

Global Voices of Freedom Act of 2023

US SR191

A resolution recognizing widening threats to freedom of the press and free expression around the world, reaffirming the vital role that a free and independent press plays in combating the growing threats of authoritarianism, misinformation, and disinformation, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2023.

US SR204

A resolution recognizing escalating threats to freedom of the press and freedom of speech worldwide, including increasing harm to journalists reporting in conflict zones and under repressive regimes, reaffirming the vital role that a free and independent press plays in upholding democracy, fostering economic prosperity, and keeping the public informed, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in supporting democracy, human rights, and good governance in commemoration of "World Press Freedom Day" on May 3, 2025.

US SR688

A resolution recognizing widening threats to freedom of the press and free expression around the world, reaffirming the vital role that a free and independent press plays in combating the growing threats of authoritarianism, misinformation, and disinformation, and reaffirming freedom of the press as a priority of the United States Government in promoting democracy, human rights, and good governance in commemoration of World Press Freedom Day on May 3, 2024.

US HB8309

Global Internet Freedom Act

US HR542

Condemning human rights violations and violations of international religious freedom in India, including those targeting Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Dalits, Adivasis, and other religious and cultural minorities.

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