A new beginning for Yemen [Archives:2004/744/Viewpoint]

Editor
The decision of President Saleh to abolish the imprisonment sentence in the press and publications law is a huge step forward that is worthy of praise and encouragement.
It was a delightful moment for me as a Yemeni to announce at the end of the 11th World Newspapers Forum held last week in Istanbul this good news which was received by applause. “You made our day with this news” was what many told me after the talk.
It is indeed a hopeful time for all of us in the press as we have been calling for the abolishment of this imprisonment sentence for so long.
I am glad that our efforts were not in vain.
Hence, I feel this could serve as a new beginning for us in Yemen to explore the new role of the press in our country. With such new initiatives to help reduce constraints on Yemeni journalists, we are opening the door for more creativity, initiatives, and responsible press to emerge.
This does not by any means imply that our fight for our freedom is over. We need to push for greater transparency, a freer flow of information, and greater respect for journalists.
Among the many things I learned through my participation as a speaker in the World Association of Newspapers conference I mentioned, was that newspapers can indeed have a great influence on a country and its future.
By applying more efficient and professional standards in our newspaper industry in Yemen, not only in editorial, but also in management and marketing, we can stand as a more respected and appreciated authority in the country. With a voice that is widely heard and respected, we can more effectively convey messages that promote civil values, freedom, human rights, the enhancement of education, investment in humans and the elimination of corruption and abuses of power.
It is in our hands as Yemeni newspapers to stand up to the challenge and begin on the path of hard work and dedication to our noble mission of conveying the truth with no excessive and unnecessary insult or defamation and without taking sides or being propaganda tools.
The necessary thing for us today is to realize that the world is moving very quickly towards newspaper alliances and blocks that serve to guide the misguided and help the ones in need. We have to form a strong power that can be heard and respected, but at the same time that we serve as a platform to introduce and disseminate values of professional and honest journalism, which need time and commitment to develop.
I take the opportunity to thank the President for taking this respectable and courageous step, which I believe will be followed by many others in support of his promises to bring about a truly democratic and free nation.
This is a new opportunity, so let's use it for a more professional and honest Yemeni press.
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