Civic space is wherever people organize, participate, protest, or communicate with each other to influence the political and social structures around them. Protecting it is our highest priority.
Press Freedom and Civic Space
On this World Press Freedom Day, let’s think about our information climate, where the media fit in, and what this means for the rest of us.
Journalists provide essential access to reliable, accessible, and accurate information that helps us all make the decisions that shape our lives – and the societies we live in. They also work to counter the scourge of disinformation that often escalates during times of crisis.
The media’s important work defending information integrity is often carried out alongside and with support from civil society organisations, and it is needed now more than ever to protect civic space from the escalating assaults on it.
To protect civic space, we must demand press freedom.
Featured Articles
Impunity update: Life imprisonment for murderer of media entrepreneur in Nepal
A suspended lawmaker and former Minister of State was sentenced to life imprisonment for the 2010 murder of Arun Singhaniya, who was then the chairman of Janakpur Today Media Group. Freedom Forum said the verdict is a boost for the campaign against impunity in Nepal.
Egypt: Ahead of COP27, authorities must open civic space and release detainees
Effective climate action is not possible without an open civic space, say civil rights organizations.
Russian journalists targeted in anti-mobilisation protests
At least three journalists were arrested, at least 16 more were detained, at least three face various charges, and at least two were served military summonses.
Tunisia: President must scrap law undermining free expression and the press
Rights groups say vague language in new decree-law will likely lead to abuse by authorities and result in the silencing of journalists.
Blockade of CNN en Español in Nicaragua “another grotesque example of censorship and persecution”, says IAPA
The attack against the international network comes on the heels of other incidents against the press in Nicaragua.
MFWA unpacks Ghana’s Right to Information law
The Media Foundation for West Africa compiles most Frequently Asked Questions on Ghana’s Right to Information law based on their interaction with stakeholders during their training workshops, forums and advocacy engagements.
