The society of Journalists & Communication Professionals in Asia (JOCPA) expresses its deep sadness over the announced closure of All About Macao, a publication that has played a vital role in promoting media pluralism in the Macao Special Administrative Region.
According to reports, the decision to cease operations comes amid “growing pressure,” the exhaustion of resources, and ongoing legal proceedings against members of its team. This situation directly challenges press freedom and the public’s right to access independent and diverse information — principles that the “one country, two systems” framework was meant to protect when Macao was returned to China in 1999.
As an association representing European communication professionals in Asia, JOCPA views with grave concern the silence of the authorities and international institutions — including Portugal and the European Union — regarding this serious erosion of fundamental freedoms.
JOCPA calls on the Government of Portugal, the European Union, international press freedom organizations, and the Macao administration to:
- Provide a transparent explanation of the real reasons behind the closure, including a review of any processes that may have violated labour, press, or civic rights.
- More firmly protect the work of journalists operating under pressure, including the withdrawal of any charges that could have an intimidating effect.
- Ensure a strong and renewed commitment to media pluralism and independence in Macao as a cornerstone of an open and accountable society.
- Fully guarantee the fundamental rights to freedom of expression, press, and publication as enshrined in Article 27 of the Basic Law of the Macao Special Administrative Region, which form the very foundation of any free and democratic society.
“The case of All About Macao reminds us that press freedom is never permanently secured, and that as Europeans and communication professionals, we cannot remain indifferent. Portugal and the European Union have a moral and historical responsibility to uphold the rule of law and fundamental rights, including freedom of the press and of expression,” said JOCPA President Josep Solano.
Finally, JOCPA wishes to acknowledge the courage of the All About Macao team and to emphasize that pressure on one media outlet sends a chilling message to journalists across the region.
Press freedom in Macao is also a European concern: defending it means keeping alive the spirit of cooperation, pluralism, and respect for fundamental rights that the European Union claims to represent.