The U.S. Department of Defense has updated its press access policy for the Pentagon, easing several previous requirements that had sparked outrage among journalists and human rights advocates.
Source: Bukvy
Under the new rules, journalists are no longer required to obtain the department’s approval before publishing materials that contain information not officially released. The policy explicitly states: “Members of the media are not required to submit their materials to the department prior to publication.”
At the same time, the document includes controversial provisions allowing journalists to be deemed a “security threat” and stripped of accreditation.
Media organizations seeking Pentagon access have one week to review the new policy and decide whether to sign it. Refusal to do so could result in the loss of accreditation.
By signing the document, reporters acknowledge the validity of the attached policies and procedures, “even if they do not necessarily agree with them.”
Previously, the Pentagon had announced plans to tighten control over media activities, requiring journalists not to collect or use information not officially cleared for publication. The new changes appear to be a compromise aimed at easing tensions between the department and the press, though censorship risks remain.
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