The African Union (AU) and the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ) have renewed calls for African governments to end impunity for crimes against journalists, warning that persistent attacks, intimidation and failure to prosecute perpetrators are weakening press freedom, undermining democratic accountability and depriving communities of their right to information.
The organisations say the continued targeting of journalists through physical attacks, arbitrary arrests, threats, unlawful surveillance and online harassment has created an increasingly hostile environment for media professionals across the continent. They warn that where perpetrators are not held accountable, violence against journalists becomes normalised, emboldening further attacks and discouraging independent reporting.
Aside the immediate danger to media workers, the consequences are felt in communities where journalists serve as a critical link between citizens and those in positions of authority. Investigative reporting on corruption, public spending, human rights abuses, electoral misconduct, insecurity and poor public services becomes increasingly difficult when reporters face threats without meaningful institutional protection.
Most journalists working at the grassroots, particularly those covering local government, rural development, communal conflicts and public service delivery, the risks are compounded by limited resources, inadequate safety training, poor access to legal support and weak institutional protection. Many work without insurance, reliable security arrangements or adequate financial compensation, leaving them economically vulnerable when attacks, threats or legal harassment disrupt their work.
The AU’s position also draws attention to the socioeconomic conditions affecting journalists. Low wages, irregular salaries, job insecurity and inadequate welfare provisions can expose media workers to exploitation, compromise professional independence and make it harder for them to withstand pressure from powerful political and economic interests.
The organisations argue that protecting journalists must therefore go beyond condemning attacks. Governments must address the working conditions that leave media professionals vulnerable, strengthen labour protections, ensure fair remuneration and create an environment where journalists can work without fear of retaliation or economic coercion.
The AU further warns that threats are evolving with technology. Online intimidation, digital surveillance, coordinated harassment and technology-facilitated gender-based violence are increasingly being used to target journalists, particularly women reporting on politically sensitive issues, elections and conflicts. These attacks often extend beyond newsrooms, affecting journalists’ families, personal safety and professional credibility.
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