An international media rights group has called on Burma's military government to release at least nine writers currently being held in Burmese prisons.
The Paris-based World Association of Newspapers says the jailing and intimidation of writers is a clear violation of numerous international agreements.
The group said the release of the jailed Burmese writers, as well as the end of state-sanctioned censorship and intimidation, will ensure that Burma is taking steps to respect press freedom.
Among the jailed writers cited by the group is National League for Democracy member Win Tin, who has spent the last 15 years in prison. Human rights groups say Win Tin is in poor health and should be released as soon as possible.