AU Peace and Security Council Takes Historic Step to Protect Journalists in Africa
2 September 2024 — Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
The African Union has marked a significant milestone in advancing press freedom and the protection of journalists across the continent, following a landmark decision by the Peace and Security Council (PSC) on 2 September 2024.The historic session, chaired by H.E. Churchill Ewumbue-Monono, Ambassador of Cameroon to Ethiopia and Permanent Representative to the African Union, placed the protection of journalists and access to information in conflict situations at the forefront of the Council's agenda for the first time.
This development was widely welcomed by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ), who described the decision as a transformative step toward safeguarding media professionals and strengthening democratic values across Africa.
During the Council's 1230th meeting, members received critical briefings on the dangers faced by journalists, particularly in conflict zones. FAJ President Omar Faruk Osman highlighted persistent challenges including violence, harassment, arbitrary arrests, and restrictions on access to information, all of which undermine press freedom and limit citizens' access to credible information.
Contributions were also made by Bankole Adeoye, African Union Commissioner for Political Affairs, Peace and Security, who emphasized that protecting freedom of expression is essential to advancing development and human rights across the continent. Additionally, 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, outlined ongoing efforts to strengthen legal and institutional protections for journalists.
At the conclusion of the meeting, Ambassador Ewumbue-Monono, on behalf of the Council, issued a comprehensive press statement outlining key commitments. The Council:
• Commended journalists for their role in promoting democracy, accountability, and early warning in conflict prevention
• Condemned increasing attacks and threats against journalists and humanitarian workers, calling for accountability
• Encouraged Member States to adopt and implement policies aligned with AU frameworks on freedom of expression and access to information
• Proposed the establishment of national and regional mechanisms to enhance journalist safety
• Requested the AU Commission to develop forward-looking strategies for protecting journalists in conflict situations
• Highlighted the need to combat misinformation and disinformation, particularly on digital platforms
• Called for stronger protection of media infrastructure and ethical standards in information dissemination
This landmark decision reflects a growing recognition of the vital role journalists play in peacebuilding, governance, and democratic consolidation across Africa.
Reacting to the outcome, FAJ President Omar Faruk Osman described the decision as
"a beacon of hope for journalists across Africa"while IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger called it
"a game-changer for press freedom on the continent."As the African Union moves from policy to implementation, this initiative signals a renewed commitment to protecting journalists, strengthening freedom of expression, and ensuring access to information — all of which are essential pillars for sustainable development and peace across Africa.