Self-regulation is standard setting and setting out the proper codes of behaviour for the media and this is necessary to support freedom of expression. These standards are agreed to by the media industry itself and are monitored, with the media being held to account where it deviates from the agreed standards.
Freedom of expression
ACHPR Special Rapporteur engages Mnangagwa on ‘Patriot Bill’
In a letter to President Mnangagwa last week, the Commissioner advised that the proposed law will have the effect of curtailing the exercise of rights such as media freedom and freedom of expression, the right to privacy, access to information, freedom of conscience, political rights, freedom to demonstrate and petition, and freedom of assembly and association.
Free Expression Climate Survey 2023
This survey is part of MISA’s regional programme to identify the most pressing issues for free media, free speech, and a free expression in the digital sphere.
Regional governments commit to more openness as MISA launches press freedom report
MISA Regional Director Tabani Moyo gave a synopsis of the report, explaining that while there were improvements on some aspects, the issue of impunity for crimes against journalists remained a worry.
The State of Press Freedom in Southern Africa Report 2022 ( Now Available)
The rise of digital technologies has presented new challenges in terms of the legislative environments in the region.
MISA Zimbabwe 2022 State of the Media Report (Now Available)
While Zimbabwe is commendably not among the African countries with jailed journalists, the country witnessed an upsurge in the number of cases involving the assaults of journalists at political gatherings/rallies, with some sustaining injuries for which they sought medical treatment.
Statement to the ACHPR on the right to freedom of expression in Southern Africa
As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of World Press Freedom Day, it is sad to note that this comes at a time when the media and the peoples of Southern Africa continue to face various challenges in their respective countries.
World Press Freedom Day Commemorations – 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.
Southern Africa improves on media rankings but more needs to be done
Commenting on the latest rankings, MISA Regional Director Tabani Moyo said there was need to sustain the quest for media freedom and build on the improvements over the past year.
MISA Regional World Press Freedom Day Statement
Thus, the theme for this year’s World Press Freedom Day – Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights – is quite apt as it serves as a reminder of the centrality of freedom of expression in the enjoyment of all other human rights.