United States urged to uphold journalist freedom, as per Germany's plea
The Trump administration's plans to reduce the duration of journalist visas in the United States have raised concerns among international media groups and industry bodies, including AFP news agency and 117 other signatories.
Under the proposed changes, foreign journalists, including German journalists like Elmar Thevessen from ZDF broadcaster, could be limited to a maximum of 240 days, with even shorter periods for Chinese journalists (90 days). This is a significant decrease from the current rules that allow journalists to stay in the United States for up to five years.
The US Department of Homeland Security announced these plans, aiming to curb visa fraud and reduce overstays. The new rules would require extensions to be approved by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), resulting in more thorough checks.
However, these changes could potentially damage, not enhance, America's global standing. Reducing the quantity and quality of coverage coming from the United States could have far-reaching implications, affecting the country's reputation and its ability to influence global events.
The German government, committed to press freedom and free reporting worldwide, is closely monitoring the ability of German journalists to work in other countries, including the United States and China. Chancellor Friedrich Merz supports a free press and the ability of foreign journalists to report freely.
These developments have not gone unnoticed by the US official, Richard Grenell, who, in a previous incident, demanded the withdrawal of a German journalist's visa over comments made in a video podcast. Grenell labeled Thevessen as an "agitator" and "radical leftist."
In response, the German government expects media professionals to work freely and independently in the United States. They are currently in talks with the US regarding the pressure on foreign correspondents.
The German government will also keep a close eye on the situation in China, where journalist visas are proposed to be limited to 90 days. This could further complicate the already challenging environment for foreign journalists working in China.
In light of these concerns, the German government is committed to advocating for the rights of journalists worldwide and ensuring that they can continue to report freely and independently, regardless of their location.
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