Indonesia’s arrest of US journalist Philip Jacobson sparks outcry over press freedom
- The 30-year-old has reported on environmental and corruption issues in the Southeast Asian nation since 2011
- Rights groups and media organisations have condemned the case amid concerns his arrest had more to do with his work than alleged visa violations
Jacobson, an editor at non-profit media organisation Mongabay, has reported on environmental and corruption issues in Indonesia since 2011.
The 30-year-old could face five years in prison if authorities prosecute him for violating the terms of his visa, an offence for which other foreign reporters have previously been deported.
International media freedom groups have criticised Jacobson’s arrest, saying it criminalises journalism in a country which has a sinking reputation for freedom of information.
Andreas Harsono, a researcher at Human Rights Watch Indonesia who is familiar with Jacobson and his work, said the case was an administrative matter and should not warrant jail time.
“Journalism is not a crime,” Harsono said. “We need to urge the immigration authorities to dismiss this case.”
