he Egyptian Press Syndicate has refused to register journalists from the independent daily newspaper Al Badeel, a development the Arabic Network for Human Rights Information (HRinfo) said highlighted the difficult nature of working in the media in the North African country. Some 42 journalists of Al Badeel have been refused registration since 2007. HRinfo said the decision reveals much about “the Egyptian Journalists Syndicate and the membership requirements, and the right of journalists to belong to (the) union that is to defend and protect their interests, particularly in a state known for violations of the freedom of press and expression,” the statement added. The decision has split the syndicate, with at least four of its 12 members showing preference for the registration of the independent reporters. Panapress.
