Journalists operating without press cards across the world often find themselves in precarious situations, struggling to gain access to official events, sources, and crucial information. Without official accreditation, they face risks ranging from harassment to outright denial of recognition. In a country where media regulation lacks an independent institution dedicated to ethical journalism, misinformation and professional misconduct can thrive unchecked, undermining public trust in the press.
Against this backdrop, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), in partnership with its Cameroonian affiliate, the Cameroon Journalists' Trade Union (CJTU), convened a major gathering in Yaoundé on March 10 2025. Supported by the European Union through the Cameroun Média Plus project, the event focused on two critical issues: the establishment of a Journalism Ethics Council and the revival of the long-dormant National Press Card Commission.
Backed by the IFJ, CJTU presented what is now being called the "The Yaoundé Call", which prioritises the creation of a tripartite and independent ethics council comprising journalists, media employers, and civil society representatives.
Drawing from international experiences, Anna Béthume, a legal expert from the Journalism Ethics Council of French and Ulrich Ahotondji, President of the Observatory of Ethics and Media Deontology in Benin, shared their insights. Participants also reflected on past failed attempts in Cameroon to establish a similar institution, concluding that success would require harmonising existing ethical codes into a unified framework, grounded in the Global Charter of Ethics for Journalists of IFJ.
Further consultations with local press unions and a thorough review of previous setbacks were also deemed necessary.
The second key issue addressed was the relaunch of the National Press Card Commission, which has been inactive since 2017. Catherine Lozac’h, Vice-President of the French Professional Journalists' Identity Card Commission, provided an overview of how an effective press card system operates within legal norms. The discussions led to key recommendations, including allocating part of the private press support fund to finance the commission, ensuring its independence by detaching it from government control, and transforming it into a collegial and balanced body composed of journalists and media employers. Participants also called for the revision and adoption of a collective agreement to define working conditions for journalists in Cameroon.
“We have a duty and responsibility to create a healthy, rigorous media environment that respects human rights. Establishing a strong, functional Media Ethics Council will build trust in the Cameroonian press, while reviving the National Press Card Commission will enhance journalist protection and independence." Marion Obam, CJTU National President declared.
The Yaoundé Call marks a turning point in the efforts to ensure ethical and professional journalism in Cameroon. However, the success of these initiatives will depend on sustained commitment from all stakeholders; journalists, media owners, trade unions, and civil society who must now transform these resolutions into reality.
“CJTU has all the internal expertise needed to unite the profession and address the challenges of journalism in Cameroon, while upholding ethical and responsible principles,” he stated. Anthony Bellanger, Secretary General IFJ, noted
By Bakah Derick
Email: hilltopvoicesnewspaper@gmail.com
Tel: 6 94 71 85 77
Pictures by SNJC/CJTU platforms