The Daily IIJ

Sometimes, you can hear someone say that: this country has freedom of expression, and other ones do not. But in fact, who is able to give this conclusion exactly? And, does the “true freedom and responsibility” exist? If yes, what are its norms?

Everyday, people are surrounded by such huge news about Iraq, Afghanistan, Iran and Pakistan, etc… But do they know precisely what is going on in these countries?

In Vietnam, the people only see what’s happening in the Middle East through CNN, AP, AFP or Al Jazeera. The news from these sources make them think that there is war everywhere in these countries. And maybe all the rest of the world (except the people who live in these countries) have the same preconceived idea.

However, the answers of reporters from Middle Eastern countries – who are participating in the summer academy of IIJ, Hamburg – will make you surprised but also optimistic. Responding to worries about the unstable security in Afghanistan, Peikar Farhad – reporter of Deutsche Presse Agentur Afghanistan says: “It is a peaceful country”. This information is very different from those numerous ones appearing on a lot of big “free and responsible” newspapers in the world.

This is just one aspect of the true thing that happens in our world. Being reporters, we need so much more answers like this one to catch the whole vision and the whole truth.

The Summer Academy held by IIJ will offer more chances for young journalists from 18 countries to understand what journalism is and what functions the media have, then fulfill their mission of telling the truth.

Luong.