Freedom of the Press - Guyana (2004)

Status: Free
Legal Environment: 4
Political Influences: 8
Economic Pressures: 8
Total Score: 20

Population: n/a
GNI/capita: n/a
Life Expectancy: 63
Religious Groups: Christian (50 percent), Hindu (35 percent), Muslim (10 percent), other (5 percent)
Ethnic Groups: East Indian (50 percent), black (36 percent), Amerindian (7 percent), other (7 percent)
Capital: Georgetown

The constitution provides for a free press, and newspapers and television stations are generally able to report without interference. In addition to the state-owned newspaper, the Guyana Chronicle, two independent papers, the Stabroek News and the Kaietuer News, are printed daily, as well as numerous weekly newspapers published by various interest groups. At least 12 independent television stations exist. However, there are no private radio stations, and media advocates such as the Association of Caribbean Media Workers have publicly noted their concern over these restrictions on broadcasting. The government argues that it is unable to issue radio licenses because there is no legislation enabling it to do so. A violent arson attack in January on Kaietuer News by two unidentified armed men raised appeals for press freedom from both journalists and the government.