TAEF Condemns Erosion of Press Freedom in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali
The African Editors Forum (TAEF) has strongly condemned the alarming decline of press freedom under the military regimes in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali. In a statement issued on Sunday, the Forum’s President, Mr. Churchill Otieno, characterized the current situation as one of significant concern, marked by renewed and intensified repression against media outlets in these Sahelian nations.
The Forum noted that the military authorities in Burkina Faso, Niger, and Mali have effectively curtailed media operations, undermining freedom of expression and creating an increasingly hostile environment for journalists. TAEF emphasized the urgent need for the military leaders in Burkina Faso to re-establish a media environment where journalists can operate freely and safely.
It is particularly troubling that several prominent international media organizations, including the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), Voice of America (VOA), Radio France Internationale (RFI), TV5 Monde, Deutsche Welle, Radio Vatican, Le Monde, and Libération, alongside local outlets such as Radio Omega and l’Événement, have faced closure or suspension in Burkina Faso. These actions reflect a broader pattern of suppression under the administration of President Traore, who has presided over a national campaign aimed at silencing critical journalism and freedom of expression, including reported instances of abduction of journalists and human rights advocates.
Furthermore, TAEF highlighted the increasing dangers facing reporters covering protests in these regions, as they often encounter threats and violent reprisals. This troubling backdrop has been exacerbated by the political and security instability that has pushed journalists towards self-censorship, further impairing access to diverse media and information. Many news organizations, concerned for their safety, are resorting to publishing content that supports military leadership, thereby stifling critical reporting and fostering a culture of fear.
The backdrop of these developments must be understood within the context of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger’s recent withdrawal from the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS). This withdrawal came after the establishment of the Alliance of Sahel States (AES), a response to ECOWAS’ suspension of the three nations following military coups that occurred in August 2021 in Mali, September 2022 in Burkina Faso, and July 2023 in Niger.
In conclusion, the TAEF’s statements serve as a clarion call for the restoration of press freedom in the Sahel region, urging military authorities to ensure the security and freedom of the press to promote a healthy and democratic society.
**Sources:** African Editors Forum (TAEF) Statement, 21st Century Chronicle.
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