ADVISORY COMMISSION ON RAKHINE STATE MEDIA ACCESS Since 9 October 2016, media access to the areas of conflict in northern Rakhine State has been highly restricted. In its interim report, the Commission encouraged the Government to allow full access for domestic and international media to all areas affected by the recent violence, but improvements since March 2017 have only been limited, especially for foreign journalists. With a few exceptions, foreign journalists have been prohibited from entering the area. The Commission recognizes the sensitive nature of the conflict in northern Rakhine State, and the Government’s instinct to counter what it perceives to be unfounded rumours and biased narratives. However, policies based on media restriction, which inhibits the flow of information, are counterproductive. More than anything, they undermine trust in the Government, and give the impression that Myanmar’s authorities have something to hide. The Commission believes that full transparency is the most effective way to dispel false and inaccurate representations of the situation on the ground. Recommendation: 31. The Commission reiterates that the Government of Myanmar should provide full and regular access for domestic and international media to all areas affected by recent violence – as well as all other areas of the state. 32. At the same time, the Government should increase and improve its public communication related to developments in Rakhine State. FINAL REPORT 39