In dozens of countries around the world, journalists regularly face obstacles in order to get the news out. Whether the threats be judicial, physical or otherwise, these dedicated and principled individuals continue to work tirelessly - often risking their lives - so that the news media remain free.

Canadian Journalists for Free Expression (CJFE) bestows two International Press Freedom Awards every year in recognition of the courage of journalists who work tirelessly - often risking their lives - so that the news media remain free. In 2009, CJFE honoured journalists from Iran and Russia.

The man who shot the video that changed how tasers are used by police departments in Canada was presented the first CJFE Citizen Journalism Award by Canadian Journalists for Free Expression at an event last night.

Paul Pritchard is the 27-year old British Columbia native who shot the footage showing the October 14, 2007, airport encounter between the RCMP and Polish immigrant Robert Dziekanski. Pritchard's footage from his digital camera shows four police officers using a taser on Dziekanski repeatedly, ending in Dziekanski's death.

Canadian Journalists for Free Expression (CJFE), is proud to recognize Sami al-Haj of Sudan and Shakeman Mugari of Zimbabwe with the 2008 International Press Freedom Awards for extraordinary courage and overcoming tremendous odds to report the news. CJFE is also pleased to acknowledge Jim Poling of Hamilton, ON with the Vox Libera Award for his long-standing commitment to freedom of the press.

In dozens of countries around the world, journalists regularly face obstacles in order to get the news out. Whether the threats be judicial, physical or otherwise, these dedicated and principled individuals continue to work tirelessly - often risking their lives - so that the news media remain free.