SUHAKAM Report of Public Inquiry into the Incidents During and After the Public Assembly of 28 April 2012 Exhibit 48 6.25 The Panel takes note the Press Freedom Index released by Reporters Without Borders in February 2013 which ranked Malaysia at number 145 out of 179 countries, a drop of 23 places compared to its previous position.41 It was reported that among the reasons for drop is the limited access to information by media in Malaysia. Recommendations 6.26 The Panel would like to refer to the OSCE’s Special Report on the Handling of the Media,42 which contains guidelines on, amongst other things, how the authorities should treat the media during assemblies, as well as how the media should be prepared in handling the reporting of such events. 41 42 The report is based partly on a questionnaires sent to partner organizations of Reporters Without Borders (18 freedom of expression non-governmental organizations located in all five continents) and its 150 correspondents around the world, as well as to journalists, researchers, jurists and human rights activists. The questionnaire asks questions about pluralism, media independence, environment and self-censorship, legislative framework, transparency, and infrastructure. Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe (OSCE)’s Special Report: Handling of the media during political demonstrations (Observations and Recommendations) 77