Question

Discuss briefly the ongoing controversy concerning confidentiality of reporters’ sources and shield laws. Mention at least one recent case of conflict between a reporter and the courts over protection of a source’s identity.

Answer 1

There are 30 states in United States which have passed Shield Law, ie. the journalists are being provided protection against the refusal to disclose confidential information or the source of identity. There is an ongoing controversy concerning shield laws as the people who are in favor of the same say that disclosing the sensitive information would be a threat to the journalist's life and it might lead to disclosing of sensitive information. On the other hand, opponents say that many a times such information needs to be disclosed for making the case strong and it would be required to source strong evidence.

Recently in a sexual harassment case, the journalists do not want to reveal the identity of the victim as it would be detrimental for her life. But at the same time court was insisting on revealing the identity in order to develop strong interrogation and collect required evidence to make the case strong.