More than 30 journalist associations and press freedom organizations have raised concerns with Congress over restrictions on the visas of journalists representing foreign media organizations in the United States.
In a letter signed by nonprofit organizations, the regulation issued by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) was criticized on press freedom grounds. The organizations argued that the rule could damage the United States’ international reputation for press freedom and weaken its status as a safe haven for journalists facing threats.
Concerns over journalism and family stability
The letter said the new visa period, which is equivalent to approximately eight months, would make long-term journalism projects more difficult. It also said that journalists and their families trying to establish a settled life in the United States, including by renting homes and enrolling their children in school, could face instability because of the measure.
The organizations also said the regulation could reduce the quality and volume of reporting about the United States. They warned that the rule could affect foreign students attending journalism schools in the country to learn about the US tradition of press freedom and journalistic ethics.
Concern over deportation because of content
The organizations said they were concerned that journalists could face pressure to be deported or have their visas denied renewal if their reporting did not reflect content and a tone acceptable to the current administration.
The letter also listed the lack of a guarantee that visa extension applications would be approved and the possibility that applying members of the press could face deportation among its concerns. The organizations warned that the restriction could encourage other countries to take similar steps.
Through DHS, the US government announced on July 17 that visa periods would be reduced to 240 days for foreign journalists and 90 days for Chinese journalists. The organizations called on Congress to help block the rule before it takes effect on September 15.
