The call came in the backdrop of global observance of World Press Freedom Day. To that end, the network urged African leaders to uphold press freedoms and civil liberties in cognisance of the critical role of journalism in addressing the environmental crisis.
In a press release issued by WADEMOS, the network underscored the pressing need to address escalating rights violations and constraints on press freedom and civic participation.
Highlighting the pivotal role of a free press in upholding democratic principles, it observed a surge in attacks on press freedom and civic space across several countries in the region and beyond.
“From government-imposed social media bans to the arbitrary shuttering of media outlets, the erosion of press freedoms and civic space poses a grave threat to democratic norms and values.”
In the release, the network expressed concern in trends in several West African countries, indicating that in Togo, government crackdowns on press freedom have stifled dissent and shrunk the civic space.
Similarly, Mali's military junta restricts media reporting on political activities, while citizens push for a return to the transition timetable.
“Internet and social media shutdowns in Senegal and Guinea further exacerbate the situation. These challenges fuel the spread of disinformation, posing a threat to democracy and regional stability. On World Press Freedom Day, WADEMOS strongly condemns these violations, emphasising the importance of free and fair access to information for citizens.”
WADEMOS is an independent and non-partisan network of diverse national and transnational civil society organisations and civic groups working to promote and defend democracy, good governance, and inclusive development in the West Africa region. The network also mobilises, coordinates, and leverages the collective voice and power of civil society and other pro-democracy actors, resources, and opportunities within the West Africa region to advance its mission.
With its secretariat in Accra, Ghana, the network has a current membership of 47 that is spread across West Africa.
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