CJFE reviewing mandate after statement that led to several departures
TORONTO — A Canadian media group that advocates for journalists around the world says it is reviewing its mandate after a recent statement on the conflict in the Middle East that led to the resignation of several key staff members.
Canadian Journalists for Free Expression says it was clear a refocus was necessary after the controversy that erupted when it released a statement asking the government to condemn Israel for what it described as “one-sided use of military force against civilian demonstrators and media in Gaza.”
The CJFE almost immediately faced internal and external criticism from Canadian journalists who said the organization was being too partisan in its stance, and several staff and committee members resigned.
CJFE says the April 2 statement, which it says was not vetted by the board, was “overreaching” and went beyond its mandate.