We note with concern the unauthorised use of our work by Bahraini newspaper Gulf Daily News.
In an article entitled ‘Confidence key to talks’ (03-7-12) the newspaper used our interview with Sir Nigel Rodley without any acknowledgement or reference. In
Print version of the article
the print version, they did put the name of the interviewer in a caption underneath a photograph but in the online version this did not occur. Read Part 1 of our original article here
In neither article did they mention Bahrain Justice and Development Movement (although this was later amended in the online version after our complaint).
We want to make it clear that the GDN article was published without our knowledge or approval. No attempt was made to consult us beforehand. We of course want the interview to be widely read, but we expect to be treated with enough respect to at least be consulted.
The interview was agreed with Sir Nigel Rodley on the basis that it would be published by us and translated to Arabic by Bahrain Mirror. The improper use of the interview shows disrespect to Sir Nigel Rodley, as well as to us. Furthermore we believe it is important for the reader to have the chance to read the full context of the interview, which is why it is important the link to the original article is published.
We have asked for the paper to make a clarification in print as well as online, but were refused this request by the Deputy Editor of GDN. We urge GDN to immediately print a full clarification to make very clear who the interview was conducted by, for which organisation and to provide a link to our website.
It is also strange that GDN would chose to use as a source a website that is blocked in Bahrain for supposedly “violating the laws and regulations of the Kingdom.”
We hope that GDN will go somehow to rectify their reputation and address this situation with the seriousness it warrants.
