CJFE operates the Journalists in Distress Fund for the benefit of working journalists in defence of democracy, human rights, justice and freedom of expression. The fund exists primarily to encourage freedom of expression and the practice of journalism, and to provide humanitarian assistance to journalists whose lives and well-being are threatened. The Fund provides financial assistance to journalists and their families whose lives are at risk or whose freedom of expression has been seriously infringed. Examples of fundable expenses are medical costs arising from imprisonment or physical mistreatment, legal costs arising from action taken in the courts against journalists because of their reporting as well as emergency travel costs so that journalists and their families can escape persecution. Among other cases, the Journalists in Distress Fund has provided emergency assistance to a trio of persecuted Ethiopian journalists who fled to Kenya; a Thai journalist who, after recovering from a shooting, required money to continue publication of his newspaper; and the wife and child of a disappeared Belarusian journalist, who was said to have been abducted on orders of the government.   "It is nice to note that where there appears extreme gloom, some rays of hope can come from as far as your continent." - Kenyan journalist who received Distress Fund assistance in 2001. Preference is given to journalists working in their home countries. However, requests will also be considered from journalists forced into exile, especially if they continue to cover their home country. Funds are not granted for ongoing expenses to organizations, institutions or enterprises.   "For moral and material help, I am grateful to CJFE. For the rest of my life, I will remember your help." - Bangladeshi recipient in 2002 In 2001, CJFE helped 23 journalists from around the world. Several others have already benefited from our assistance this year. Amount granted: normally from $200 to $2000 USD, depending on the case. Contact person: Julie Payne, CJFE Program Manager

Home

About CJFE

Project Work

Press Freedom Awards

Journalists in Distress Fund

Publications and Media Releases

Campaigns

Journalists in Exile

Links

Contact CJFE

Français

CJFE | 555 Richmond St. West, Suite 1101, P.O. Box 407, Toronto, ON M5V 3B1 | Phone: 416-515-9622 | Fax: 416-515-7879 | cjfe@cjfe.org | www.cjfe.org