In a Special Administrative Region with its own model—one that combines different legal, political, and social traditions—freedom of the press must necessarily be understood and exercised within a framework of balance: institutional maturity from those who define and enforce the rules, and responsibility from journalists. The detention of two *All About Macau* journalists at the entrance of the Legislative Assembly shows that this balance has not been achieved.
On the first day of the presentation of the Policy Address, the *All About Macau* journalists were issued blue cards, which limited their access to the plenary room, although they were able to work without formal restrictions. Even so, they were repeatedly asked to leave, unlike others in the same situation. The following day, access was denied to them on the grounds of a lack of cooperation the day before.
The actions of the journalists—wrong in form but weighted by past events—required an institutional response. However, that response was disproportionate, and that is something all parties should take seriously. The detention of journalists—especially when accompanied by images that quickly go viral—always carries a reputational cost. A simple Google search of “Macau” makes the impact clear, and that cost is not limited to the media outlet directly involved.
It affects the entire journalistic ecosystem, it affects public perception of press freedom, and, above all, it affects Macau’s image as a place where institutions engage openly and constructively with civil society.
This is not about taking sides. It’s about recognizing that journalism plays a central role in an informed society, and that any limits placed on its practice must be clear, proportional, and transparent. If there are rules for accessing the Legislative Assembly, let them be applied consistently and fairly. If there are behaviors to be reviewed, let them be reviewed without drama or polarization.
Macau needs to establish itself as a meeting point—not only between cultures and economies, but also between ideas and principles. That requires more than simply abiding by the letter of the law. It calls for openness, proportionality in responses, and a constant willingness to listen. No journalist or media outlet is an island, and every action inevitably generates a reaction—not directed at a single target, but affecting everyone.
Above all, this moment should be seen as an invitation to reflection and dialogue. I don’t have fixed solutions to such complex issues as balancing press freedom and institutional functioning. But I am, as we all should be, ready for the debate. I know how both sides operate—and perhaps it’s precisely because of that that I insist it is essential for all parties—government, journalists, and civil society—to sit down at the table with a sense of responsibility. Only then can we build lasting consensus.
*Editor-in-Chief of PLATAFORMA
