República Dominicana
Presidential Decree No. 041-DR
Issued by: Future DR President Candidate
Subject: National Media Freedom and Press Protection Act – Safeguarding the Rights of Journalists, Freedom of Expression, and Public Access to Information
Effective Immediately
To ensure the protection of freedom of speech, uphold the rights of journalists, and guarantee the Dominican people access to independent and truthful information, this decree establishes the legal framework for safeguarding media freedom and promoting a strong, free, and independent press in the Dominican Republic.
Article 1. Freedom of the Press and Expression
— All media outlets, including newspapers, television, radio, online platforms, and independent publications, shall have the unrestricted right to publish, report, and express opinions without interference, censorship, or suppression from the government or any private entity.
— The freedom of expression shall be recognized as a fundamental human right and protected under national law.
Article 2. Protection of Journalists and Media Workers
— Journalists and media professionals shall have the right to work freely and safely, without fear of harassment, intimidation, threats, violence, or legal retaliation for their reporting.
— Any attempt to harm, threaten, or obstruct a journalist in the course of their work shall be considered a criminal offense, punishable under the law.
Article 3. Access to Public Information
— All government institutions, public agencies, and officials shall provide reasonable access to public records and data to journalists and media organizations upon request, in accordance with transparency laws and the public’s right to know.
— Denial of access to non-classified public information shall be subject to appeal and review by an independent media oversight board.
Article 4. Independent Media Oversight Board
— A National Media Freedom and Ethics Board shall be established to monitor press freedom, investigate complaints of censorship or harassment, and ensure fair and ethical reporting standards across the Dominican Republic.
— The Board shall consist of independent experts, including journalists, legal professionals, human rights advocates, and media scholars, appointed for fixed terms.
Article 5. Anti-Censorship Protections
— The government of the Dominican Republic shall not engage in or support the censorship, blocking, or suppression of lawful media content, except in cases involving direct threats to national security or public safety, as determined by an independent judicial review.
Article 6. Education and Public Awareness
— National efforts shall be undertaken to promote media literacy, critical thinking, and awareness of press freedoms among the Dominican public, including integration into school curricula and public education campaigns.
Article 7. Enforcement and Compliance
— This decree shall be enforced by the Ministry of Justice, with cooperation from the National Media Freedom and Ethics Board.
— Any government official or private entity found guilty of violating this decree shall be subject to investigation, prosecution, and appropriate penalties under Dominican law.
Signed in the name of the Dominican Republic and its people.
For a free press, an informed public, and a stronger democracy.
Signed,
Future DR President Candidate
President of the Dominican Republic
Date: Day One, Term One