Media freedom, independence and diversity
MISA advocates for media law reform and institutional and policy changes that further an independent, pluralistic and sustainable three-tier system of broadcasting as as outlined in the African Charter on Broadcasting.
The three-tier system means having community, public and commercial broadcasting that provide content for local, regional and national audiences. Such as system enhances diversity and can help combat the domination of state broadcasters and the exclusion of minority voices.
Community broadcasting
Community media is operated in the community, for the community, about the community and by the community. It is independent, free from political or commercial interference and can, therefore, facilitate public platforms for debate and discussion and promote social agendas.
The reach of community media, particularly radio, means it provides information and a platform of expression to remote, grassroots communities that may not be represented in other media. The main challenges community radio and television faces in the region are lack of legislation, regulation and infrastructure to support the establishment and licensing of community media, and the inability to sustain themselves beyond donor seed money.
Public service broadcasting
Public service broadcasting is created, financed and controlled by the public, for the public. It is neither commercial nor state-owned and is therefore free from political or commercial interference.
Public service broadcasting informs, educates and entertains. It is an essential part of a pluralistic, diverse broadcasting sector.
Media freedom news from our chapters
The Survival Toolkit for Journalists: How to protect yourself against Digital Surveillance
The Survival Toolkit for Journalists: How to protect yourself against Digital Surveillance guide was developed in response to the growing threat of digital surveillance and cyber security legislation, used by governments and others to track and monitor journalists in...
World Press Freedom Day 2022 Statement by Commissioner Ourveena Geereesha Topsy-Sonoo
WORLD PRESS FREEDOM DAY 2022 STATEMENT BY COMMISSIONER OURVEENA GEEREESHA TOPSY-SONOO SPECIAL RAPPORTEUR ON FREEDOM OF EXPRESSION AND ACCESS TO INFORMATION IN AFRICA 02 MAY 2022 Good morning Ladies and Gentlemen, distinguished participants; Allow me to introduce...
MISA’s indelible footprints during World Press Freedom Day commemorations
By Tabani Moyo The 2022 World Press Freedom Day commemorations are and will remain a critical milestone in the lifespan of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) as they took place when the organisation turned 30. This is by no means a mean feat! In the...
Worrying decline in media freedom in Southern Africa
Reporters Without Boundaries has released the 2022 World Press Freedom Index, which points to worrying signs for freedom of expression in Southern Africa, with a number of countries recording sharp declines. Botswana, long regarded as a bastion of democracy, saw a...
Journalism safety and security a priority ahead of 2023 national elections
As Zimbabwe commemorates this year’s 2022 World Press Freedom Day, MISA Zimbabwe takes note of the improving media operating environment as evidenced by the reduction in the number of media freedom violations in 2021. We therefore urge the government, political...