African Union and FAJ condemn attacks on journalists

The African Union's Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, Bankole Adeoye, and the President of the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ), Omar Faruk Osman, issued a joint statement on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. They expressed full solidarity with journalists and media professionals across Africa, honouring those killed, injured, detained, threatened, or forced into exile.

The officials stated that attacks on journalists are attacks on fundamental human rights, specifically the right to freedom of expression and access to information across Africa. They reaffirmed their commitment to a continent where journalists can work freely and safely, with crimes against them investigated and punished under the rule of law. The statement noted that women journalists face particular gender-based threats, harassment, and online violence.

This year's theme, "Threats evolve. Impunity persists," draws attention to how new technologies and evolving weaponry alter risks for journalists, especially in conflict zones, while perpetrators often escape accountability. The AU and FAJ urged member states to protect journalists' rights, investigate attacks, prosecute offenders, and provide effective reparations to victims.

Why it mattersJournalists across Africa, including those in Angola, face evolving threats and persistent impunity for crimes committed against them, impacting their safety and the public's access to information.

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