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Information disorders during elections in Southern Africa

The media, citizens, and governments have a role to play in ensuring the dissemination of accurate and factual information while curbing misinformation and disinformation through regulations, programmes, and awareness.

MISA STATEMENT TO THE AFRICAN COMMISSION ON HUMAN AND PEOPLESโ€™ RIGHTS ON THE RIGHT TO FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION IN SOUTHERN AFRICA AT THE 77th ORDINARY SESSION OF THE AFRICAN COMMISSION ON HUMAN AND PEOPLESโ€™ RIGHTS.

In 2022, we were optimistic that Southern Africa had turned the corner regarding attacks against journalists. However, we were jolted back to reality by the death of Ralikonelo Joki, the Lesotho broadcaster, who was shot and killed as he drove out of his work of employment. Before his death, Joki received death threats through social media platforms.

World Press Freedom Day Commemorations โ€“ 30 years on!

The year 2023 has seen the bulk of the southern African countries making positive steps in the rankings of the Reporters Without Borders Index. Of the 15 countries that were ranked, six slid down the ladder of rankings. One of the six that had a negative movement is Namibia dropping from position 18 to 22 yet maintaining the number one position in Africa.ย 

MISA Regional World Press Freedom Day Statement

Thus, the theme for this yearโ€™s World Press Freedom Day โ€“ Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights โ€“ is quite apt as it serves as a reminder of the centrality of freedom of expression in the enjoyment of all other human rights.

SPACES OF SOLIDARITY MEETING RESOLUTIONS

The resolutions set out principles of the Spaces of Solidarity, which are key for the organisations working on the promotion and defence of expression in Southern Africa and guiding the way forward in pursuit of the set objectives.