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ASIA PRESS INTERNATIONAL (API)
Asia Press International (API) was established in
Tokyo on October 1, 1987. It was started as a group of photo-video-journalists
who work and support each other just like the Yui Cooperative (an
agricultural group which has been around for many generations in
Asia).
While the spirit of journalism in the big media
networks is beginning to fade, API journalists, as expressionists,
have been trying to be independent and creative. We strive to be
free from any dependence on capital and authority. To realize this,
we try to keep on developing our capabilities and spirit as recorders
of the times. In addition, we continue to expand our network by
joining hands with Asian peoples, regardless of differences in race
and culture.
For its operation, Asia Press has established representative
offices in Bangkok, Manila, Taipei, Beijing, Seoul, Osaka and Tokyo.
Each office has its own group of local journalists. Asia Press grows
its roots through this way. This is not just a demand of the times,
but a necessity for us to be truly independent and international.
At present, Asia Press has about 30 members. The areas we cover
encompass the globe not just Asia. The themes we work on are diverse
- from politics to culture.
Asia Press, our collective name, means that we have
chosen Asia as the primary source of our themes and reportage. But
we operate beyond the realms of our home bases.
If there is one thing common among us, it is our concern to listen
and give voice to people ignored and shunned by major mass media
networks. Through our stories, we aim to shed light on the human
spirit and discover the truth that lies hidden in it. This we intend
to accomplish, especially in a society where people are more and
more considered as objects like stones cast away on the roadside,
by working as independent journalists.
NONAKA Akihiro
Asia Press International
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