Practices of Self-Censorship Among Nepali Journalists

Abstract: 

Although Nepal has entered a new era of democracy and press freedom since 2006, self-censorship still exists in the reporting/editing of many Nepali journalists. Nepal has more than 100 years of press history, most of it has faced pressure from the government if not censorship. Drawing upon interviews with journalists, the study demonstrates how self-censorship is being practised in Nepali media houses as a result of state power, the culture of impunity, commercial interests, and political inclination of journalists. While highlighting these agents, the study also aims to explain the difference in practices of self-censorship by gender and type of news media.