The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its pan-African regional organisation, the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ), have lauded the Peace and Security Council (PSC) of the African Union (AU) for prioritising the protection of African journalists for the first time in its history.
The declaration was made during a meeting chaired by Ambassador Churchill Ewumbue-Monono, Permanent Representative of Cameroon to the #AU, on Monday 2 September 2024
This pivotal session, which marked the Council's 1230th meeting, focused on safeguarding journalists and ensuring access to information, especially in conflict-ridden regions across Africa. The #IFJ and #FAJ have long advocated for the AU to address these pressing issues, highlighting the role of journalists in promoting democracy and human rights.
During the meeting, FAJ President Omar Faruk Osman detailed the perilous conditions faced by journalists on the continent, including targeted killings, harassment, arbitrary arrests, and attacks on female journalists. Such hostile environments, particularly in conflict zones, severely impede the media's ability to provide accurate information to the public, exacerbating crises and undermining democratic processes.
Ambassador Bankole Adeoye, AU Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace, and Security, highlighted that assaults on journalists are direct attacks on all African citizens and a threat to development. He called for collective action to uphold freedom of expression and protect journalists, who play a crucial role in peace and security.
H.E. Ambassador Ourveena Geereesha Topsy-Sonoo, Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa at the #African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), emphasised the Commission's efforts to safeguard journalists. She pointed to key resolutions adopted in Banjul that advocate for the protection of journalists and urged AU member states to implement them effectively.
Following the discussions, Ambassador Ewumbue-Monono issued a comprehensive press statement, commending journalists for their contributions to democracy and political accountability. The Council acknowledged the increasing threats faced by media professionals and called for robust national and regional strategies aligned with AU principles to ensure their safety. The statement also recommended the formation of a Working Group on the #Protection of #Journalists and National Coordination Mechanisms, as well as partnerships with relevant stakeholders to bolster cooperation and safety.
FAJ President Omar Faruk Osman described the AU's declaration as a "beacon of hope" for journalists working under hazardous conditions. "This decision signifies a transformative step towards establishing a safe haven for media professionals who risk everything to illuminate the darkest corners of our societies. We now have a clear and actionable commitment from the highest levels to protect not just the lives of journalists but also the fundamental freedoms that underpin our democracies." He said
Echoing this sentiment, Anthony Bellanger, General Secretary of the IFJ, hailed the Council’s decision as a “game-changer” for press freedom across Africa. He emphasised that the move marks a significant policy shift and a commitment to end impunity for crimes against journalists, which have too often silenced voices and stifled freedom of the press.
“We are galvanized by this action and resolute in our mission to ensure every journalist in Africa can work without fear of repression or violence,” he affirmed.
As the AU transitions from policy-making to concrete action, the IFJ and FAJ have pledged to collaborate closely with the African Union Commission, the #PSC, the #ACHPR, and the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (AfCHPR). This collective effort aims to create a safer environment for journalists across the continent, reinforcing the principles of democracy, freedom of expression, and access to information.
By Bakah Derick
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