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🇫🇷 France /Culture & Society

Egypt 'Source Hunt' Sparks Outcry from 'Disclose' and RSF

From Libération · () French

Translated from French, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

At a glance

News Sources not specified In the courts
  • The French investigative media outlet 'Disclose' and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) are calling for public mobilization against an operation targeting journalistic sources in Egypt.
  • This follows a court order to resume investigations into the sources of the media outlet, which journalist Ariane Lavrilleux describes as a 'hunt' aimed at intimidating whistleblowers.
  • The organizations are protesting what they call a 'hunt for sources,' arguing it threatens press freedom and the ability of journalists to protect their informants.

French investigative outlet 'Disclose' and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) have launched a call to action, urging public support against what they term a 'hunt for sources' in Egypt. The appeal comes after a court ordered the resumption of investigations into the sources used by 'Disclose.' Journalist Ariane Lavrilleux, who has been at the forefront of this case, condemned the judicial move as a deliberate attempt to instill fear in whistleblowers and deter them from coming forward.

Lavrilleux stated that the operation is designed to 'frighten all whistleblowers.' This legal pursuit, she argues, represents a significant threat to press freedom, not only in Egypt but potentially beyond. The core issue revolves around the protection of journalistic sources, a fundamental principle for investigative reporting worldwide. By targeting those who leak information, authorities risk silencing critical reporting and preventing the public from accessing vital information.

hunt for sources

— Ariane LavrilleuxLavrilleux describes the judicial operation targeting the sources of the media outlet 'Disclose.'

'Disclose' and RSF are framing this as a critical moment for press freedom, emphasizing that the 'hunt' is not merely about a single media outlet but about the broader implications for investigative journalism. They are mobilizing the public and international community to stand against such practices, which they believe undermine the role of the press in holding power accountable. The organizations are calling for a strong, unified response to ensure that journalists can continue to operate without fear of reprisal for protecting their sources.

aimed at frightening all whistleblowers

— Ariane LavrilleuxLavrilleux explains the perceived intent behind the investigation into journalistic sources.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by Libération in French. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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