Press freedom remains sharply uneven worldwide in 2025, with Nordic countries maintaining their dominance at the top of global rankings, while dozens of nations continue to operate under constrained or reduced media conditions, according to the 2025 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

The index, which scores countries on a scale from 0 to 100, shows Norway once again leading globally with a score of 93, followed closely by Estonia and the Netherlands at 89, and Sweden at 88. Finland, Denmark and Ireland also rank among the highest performers, each scoring 87, reinforcing Northern Europe’s longstanding position as a stronghold for independent journalism.

European countries dominate the upper tier of the index, with several nations, including Portugal, Switzerland, Germany, and Czechia, scoring in the mid-80s, indicating a broadly stable media environment. The United Kingdom and Canada sit slightly lower at 79, reflecting what RSF describes as “moderate but notable pressures” on press independence.

Despite Europe’s overall strength, the index highlights variations within the region. Countries such as Hungary (63) and Greece (55) fall into lower categories, underscoring concerns about political influence, media concentration and journalist safety.

A large group of countries falls into what RSF classifies as “moderate” or “constrained” press freedom. These include major economies such as the United States (65), Japan (63), and South Korea (64), where structural and political challenges continue to affect journalistic work.

In Africa, the picture is mixed. Ghana (67) and Namibia (75) perform relatively well, while others, such as Zambia (57) and Niger (57), face tighter constraints. Similarly, Latin American countries show divergence, with Uruguay (65) and Costa Rica (73) outperforming regional peers like Bolivia (54) and Ecuador (54).

Asia-Pacific nations also display a broad spectrum. Australia and New Zealand remain in the moderate category, while countries such as Papua New Guinea (58) and Malaysia (56) highlight ongoing struggles with regulatory and political pressures.

At the lower end of the index, countries including Benin, Bolivia, Ecuador and Tanzania all score 54, placing them in the “reduced press freedom” category. Serbia, Brunei, Eswatini, Kosovo and Angola follow closely with scores of 53.

These rankings point to systemic issues such as censorship, legal intimidation, limited access to information and threats to journalists’ safety, factors RSF identifies as key barriers to a free press.

The charge is linked to provisions in Cuba’s penal code that criminalise actions deemed to undermine the state’s constitutional system. Authorities have not publicly detailed the specific content or actions that led to the decision, but both individuals are known online for sharing commentary critical of official policies and the country’s political direction.

Human rights organisations have described the move as part of an escalating pattern of legal action against activists, journalists and digital content creators in recent years. Cuban officials, however, have consistently defended the application of such laws as necessary to protect national sovereignty and public order.

The case comes at a time of heightened economic strain and social tension on the island, with dissent increasingly expressed through social media platforms. The decision to impose provisional detention means both influencers will remain in custody while investigations continue and the legal process moves forward.

The changes were passed by Vietnam’s National Assembly on December 10 as part of amendments to the press law and the Protection of State Secrets Law, significantly expanding the powers of security agencies over media activity.

Under the revised press law, the Ministry of Public Security will be able to compel journalists and media organisations to reveal confidential source information at the request of state authorities. Previously, such powers were restricted to judges and limited to investigations into serious crimes.

The amendment also requires all media outlets to comply with rules against publishing undefined “banned information” and to retain archived copies of all published material in case of investigation. Authorities have yet to clarify what content would be considered prohibited.

The revised press law is scheduled to take effect on July 1, 2026, although a full official version of the amended legislation has not been made public. The most recent version available is a shortened draft released during a public consultation earlier this year.

In a separate move, lawmakers also amended the Protection of State Secrets Law, expanding the range of information classified as secret. Newly protected categories include details of senior leaders’ overseas activities, state compensation, and international investment dispute settlements.

Those provisions are due to come into force on March 1, 2026, further narrowing the scope of information journalists can legally report.

The IFJ said the amendments form part of a broader crackdown on independent journalism and critical speech in Vietnam, citing recent actions against digital platforms and foreign media outlets.

“The Vietnamese government continues to crack down on critical voices, suppressing communications channels, forcing the disclosure of sources, and criminalising dissent,” the IFJ said. “IFJ calls for these new amendments to be overturned and for the authorities to uphold the right of journalists to report freely and without fear as per Vietnam’s constitution.”

Over recent years, the government has steadily tightened control over what citizens can read, post, or even discuss. Key online platforms once central to public conversation — Twitter (now X), Clubhouse, Telegram, and the influential Tanzanian forum JamiiForums — have been blocked or restricted.

Many users now rely on VPNs to access these platforms. The Tanzania Communications Regulatory Authority (TCRA) denies restricting the use of VPNs but requires users to notify the regulator when using such applications — a move clearly designed to monitor and discourage digital privacy.

JamiiForums, often called “Tanzania’s WikiLeaks” for its role in exposing corruption and hosting open debates, was suspended for 90 days in September after it shared statements by politician Humphrey Polepole about President Samia Suluhu Hassan’s private meetings with a Zimbabwean businessman. Officials accused the site of “misleading the public” and “undermining national unity.”

This digital crackdown has gone hand in hand with pressure on the press. Jambo TV received three separate takedown orders in a single month.

Under Section 19 of the Media Services Act (2016) and Regulations 17–19 of the Media Services Regulations (2017), all journalists must hold government-issued press cards — a system many see as turning accreditation into a tool of control. Even entertainment programs now avoid political jokes or commentary, fearful that a single remark could bring punishment.

The campaign of control has reached beyond media into religious life

When Bishop Josephat Gwajima, a CCM lawmaker, accused the government of detentions and disappearances, his Glory of Christ Church in Dar es Salaam was swiftly deregistered and sealed by police as hundreds of worshippers protested. Officials said his sermons violated the “acceptable conduct” of religious organisations — a warning that even ruling-party insiders are not safe from retribution.

Disappearances have become part of Tanzania’s political landscape

Earlier this October, Humphrey Polepole, former ambassador to Cuba and a sharp critic of the administration, was abducted by unknown assailants shortly after resigning from his post and denouncing government abuses.

According to UN experts, there have been over 200 cases of enforced disappearances since 2019, forming what they call a “pattern of intimidation” against journalists, activists, opposition members, and other dissenting voices.

At a recent discussion hosted by Tanzania’s Tech and Media Convergency (TMC), participants described the internet as a field of “ digital landmines, ” where a single post can end a career. For many Tanzanians, silence now feels safer than speech.

But silencing truth has not stopped lies

With independent journalism under siege and online spaces censored, misinformation spreads unchecked. In early 2025, fact-checking platform JamiiCheck analysed 192 political claims circulating online. Of these, 128 were false, most targeting opposition parties. 

Digital rights advocates believe that Tanzania’s Cybercrime Act and Electronic and Postal Communications Act are enforced selectively . Posts critical of the government vanish almost instantly, while pro-government falsehoods stay online — turning digital platforms into yet another instrument of political control.

As speech grows more restricted, political competition is also narrowing

The main opposition party, CHADEMA, has been disqualified from the race after refusing to sign an electoral code of conduct it called biased. Its leader, Tundu Lissu, faces treason charges widely viewed as politically motivated. He was arrested after a peaceful rally calling for electoral reform and accused of spreading false information — charges that could carry the death penalty.

Dozens of his supporters have been harassed or barred from attending his trial

Another opposition candidate, Luhaga Mpina, of the Alliance for Change and Transparency (ACT–Wazalendo), has also been banned from running . Once a senior CCM member, Mpina left the ruling party in August after being blocked from seeking re-nomination in his longtime parliamentary seat in Kisesa. His candidacy was seen as a serious challenge to President Samia — until the electoral commission disqualified him.

Many Tanzanians still remember the 2020 election, when the internet was shut down on polling day . Civil society groups warn that another blackout could leave voters, journalists, and observers in the dark — especially in rural areas. Without open communication, they say, rumours will thrive and public trust in the results will collapse.

Tanzania’s crisis reflects a wider African trend: the fusion of authoritarian control with digital technology. Across the continent, governments are using surveillance laws, internet shutdowns, and disinformation to shape public narratives and suppress dissent. But Tanzania stands out — for both its intensity and its timing — as it approaches a pivotal election where access to truth may matter as much as the vote itself.

Tanzania’s 2025 election will test more than political loyalty. It will test whether democracy can survive when speech, information, and belief are all under siege.

Restoring transparency will take more than promises. It will require protecting independent journalism, safeguarding free expression, investing in digital literacy, and dismantling the culture of fear that now grips the nation.

Until then, Tanzanians move toward the polls not only uncertain of their choices — but uncertain of what to believe.

The opinions and thoughts expressed in this article reflect only the author's views.

Mweha Msemo is a Tanzanian freelance journalist based in Dar es Salaam. He focuses on stories of marginalised communities, social justice, and digital rights. With a passion for amplifying unheard voices, his work highlights the lives and challenges of underrepresented groups, reflecting his commitment to raising awareness and fostering understanding.

The government of President Alassane Ouattara has banned opposition demonstrations and moved aggressively against media seen as sympathetic to the opposition, drawing condemnation from organisations like Reporters Without Borders (RSF) and the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).

“If you want to say something about him, it must be something good. If you say something bad, you go to jail,” an Ivorian journalist told Global South World in a confidential interview. “All the journalists here, if you see them talking about this guy, it means their mouth is open to say something good about the president. In this case, no problem.”

His concerns mirror reports from press freedom groups like Reporters Without Borders and the Committee to Protect Journalists, both of which have documented assaults, detentions, and surveillance of the media.

Most recently, 237 protestors were arrested during demonstrations on October 11, some of them journalists. “Some people from the media have been caught by him… they did not want them to be there to take some pictures or to take notes… some have been sent to jail,” the journalist said.

Those on the frontlines of documenting these events – journalists – have themselves become targets. Press freedom monitors report multiple cases of reporters being assaulted, arrested, or intimidated while covering the political unrest.

In early November 2020, amid the post-election crisis of that year, police raided the home of former President Henri Konan Bédié (then an opposition leader) and arrested at least 20 people, including a journalist on the scene.

Yao Alex Hallane Clément, a reporter for the privately owned PDCI 24 TV (aligned with Bédié’s opposition party), was taken into custody during that raid despite identifying himself as press.

He was held without charge for seven days – much of it at the Directorate of Territorial Surveillance (DST), a facility typically used for terror suspects – and interrogated about his coverage, as authorities accused him of being an opposition “propagandist”

Although Côte d’Ivoire passed a press law in 2017 abolishing prison terms for journalists, authorities have found other means to punish media content. In July 2022, investigative journalist Noël Konan was convicted of defamation and fined 3 million CFA francs (about $4,600) over a tweet alleging corruption, using a legal provision (Article 89 of the press law) that press advocates say should not be used to criminalise reporters’ speech

Authorities have shown little willingness to compromise, maintaining that the election will proceed as planned and warning that further “illegal” protests will be prevented. Interior Minister Diomandé justified the ban by saying it was necessary to “maintain public order” during the tense pre-election period.

Footage from the Kibera courtroom captured the accused arriving amid tight security as their legal teams pleaded for their release on bail. The accused include former Nairobi Central Police Station OCS Samson Talam and police constable James Mukhwana.

During the bail hearing, the defence emphasised that the accused had strong community ties and a clean record. Lawyer Stanley Kinyanjui, representing Talam, acknowledged that while the probation report had generally portrayed the accused positively, it cited the victim’s family's views as a key reason for recommending against bail.

“The only disconnect between the probation office and the right of the accused person to be granted bail was the views of the victim,” said Kinyanjui.

The prosecution warned that releasing the accused on bail could result in witness interference and evidence tampering concerns that ultimately influenced the judge’s decision.

Defence attorney Danstan Omari maintained his clients’ innocence. “We are very definite that after trial, they will be walking out of this court as acquitted citizens,” he said, expressing confidence in the eventual outcome.

The murder case has stirred national outrage. Ojwang was reportedly arrested at his rural home and later died in police custody at Nairobi’s Central Police Station. A post-mortem revealed he suffered blunt force trauma to the head, neck compression, and widespread bruising, consistent with allegations of torture.

All six accused have pleaded not guilty. The case remains under public scrutiny as demands for police accountability continue to grow.

The Constitutional Court cancelled Section 200 of Malawi’s Penal Code, which allowed the government to press criminal charges against people accused of defamation.

A group of three judges said the law went against Malawi’s own Constitution and international agreements on human rights.

The case was brought by political activist Joshua Chisa Mbele after he was charged under the law for making comments about a government official.

Mbele argued that the charge violated his right to speak freely, as guaranteed in Malawi’s Constitution.

The judges agreed with him.

They said in a democratic society, protecting people’s right to speak openly was more important than using criminal law to punish those who may harm someone’s reputation. They added that civil cases, not criminal charges, were the right way to handle such disputes.

“Criminal sanctions, especially imprisonment, carry the risk of being used as tools of intimidation against critics and dissenters,” the Court said.

The ruling brings Malawi in line with a growing number of countries across Africa and the Commonwealth that have removed similar laws.

Experts say these outdated laws are often used to silence journalists, activists and political opponents.

Until now, the law had been used to target people speaking out against government officials. With this ruling, nobody in Malawi can be charged again for criminal defamation.

Critics said the law targeted human rights activists and civil society groups, especially those who speak out against the government in international forums or seek outside support for justice.

The court agreed, saying the harsh punishments in section 22A (3) violate rights guaranteed by Zimbabwe’s Constitution, such as freedom of expression, association, and the right to participate in public life.

The case was brought by the Media Alliance of Zimbabwe and citizen Zenzele Ndebele, who argued that the law was vague, overly broad, and open to abuse. They warned it would silence opposing views and limit democratic freedoms.

The Patriotic Act has drawn strong criticism since its approval, with groups including the United Nations human rights office and Human Rights Watch saying it poses a serious threat to civil liberties .

Despite the court’s ruling, human rights organisations are calling on the government to fully repeal the law, warning that other parts still violate international rights standards.

Zimbabwe’s government has not yet said whether it will challenge the ruling or change the remaining sections of the act.

On 24 May 2025, Governor Marcelo Orrego announced the delivery of twelve fully equipped ambulances to public hospitals across eight departments in San Juan, Argentina, TV Brics reports. This initiative aims to enhance emergency response and patient transfer efficiency, particularly in remote areas. Additionally, two mobile operating theatres were provided for outbreak responses and field surgeries, and a mobile vaccination centre was established to accelerate immunisation efforts in underserved communities, as reported by Ahora San Juan.

Venezuelan Opposition figures speak out

Five Venezuelan opposition figures, having sought refuge in the Argentine embassy in Caracas for over a year, publicly shared their experiences after arriving in the United States. They characterised their departure as part of an extensive rescue operation, which the Venezuelan government disputes, labelling it a negotiation, according to reports from AP.

Political leaders defend press freedom in Argentina

In response to attacks on journalists by President Javier Milei, Argentine political leaders signed a declaration reaffirming their commitment to press freedom. The statement condemns governmental intimidation tactics against the media, demanding collective efforts from political entities and civil society to uphold freedom of expression. The declaration coincided with stricter accreditation rules for journalists, emphasising the importance of ethical political conduct, as outlined in their release.

Same-sex couple advocates surrogacy normalisation in Argentina

A same-sex couple in Argentina is lobbying for national legislation to regulate surrogacy, as the current legal framework remains unstructured. Their efforts underscore the need for clearer policies to protect parental rights and address the challenges faced by same-sex couples wishing to start families, as reported by CNN .

UAE leaders send congratulations to Argentina

On Argentina's National Day, UAE leaders, including President Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan and Vice President Mohamed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, conveyed congratulatory messages to Argentine President Javier Milei and Chief of the Ministerial Cabinet Guillermo Francos. This diplomatic gesture underscores the strengthening ties between the UAE and Argentina.

Between 15 and 20 people—including former mayors and military officers—were arrested over the weekend in northern Nicaragua in what opposition groups call politically motivated raids. Among the detained are ex-mayors from the banned Citizens for Liberty party and a former military intelligence chief. The arrests follow a pattern of repression by President Daniel Ortega and Vice President Rosario Murillo since the 2018 protests, which left over 300 dead. Opposition media and exile outlets linked the raids to the recent detention of retired General Álvaro Baltodano, a former Ortega ally.

Legislature votes to end dual citizenship

Nicaragua’s National Assembly approved a constitutional amendment Friday to ban dual citizenship, potentially affecting thousands, including government critics. The reform, which must pass again in 2026 to take effect, was unanimously backed by the Sandinista-controlled legislature. Under the proposal, Nicaraguans who acquire another nationality would lose their citizenship, while most foreigners seeking Nicaraguan citizenship must renounce theirs, except Central Americans. The move follows the Ortega regime’s revocation of citizenship for over 400 people, including 222 deported to the U.S. in 2023.

$50b Panama Canal replacement

Elon Musk is reportedly backing a $50 billion canal project in Nicaragua aimed at creating a high-tech alternative to the Panama Canal. The proposed waterway, supported by a global investor consortium, reflects Musk’s push for futuristic infrastructure to ease global trade. Why rethink the Panama Canal? Despite its historic role since 1914, the canal struggles with congestion and can't accommodate the largest modern ships, even after expansions. Musk's vision: a more efficient, scalable route connecting the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans.

Nicaragua shines at 2nd BRICS Women Entrepreneurs Forum

Nicaragua actively participated in the second day of the BRICS Women Entrepreneurs Forum held at Russia’s National Centre. Representatives from China, Malaysia, India, Brazil, Iran, Indonesia, and South Africa shared insights on creative industries, financing, and strategic alliances. Nicaragua highlighted its Creative Economy Model as a key strategy for fostering global cooperation in innovation and production. The forum also explored co-production models, infrastructure, and technological advancements, reinforcing the role of creative industries in economic growth.

Nicaragua welcomes Cameroon’s historic referendum

On May 19, 2025, the Government of Nicaragua extended warm greetings to President Paul Biya and the people of Cameroon in honour of the anniversary of the historic May 20, 1972, Constitutional Referendum. The message praised the Cameroonian people's democratic decision to establish a unified state and reaffirmed Nicaragua’s commitment to deepening bilateral ties based on solidarity, cooperation, and mutual respect.

Tunisia’s economy expanded by 1.6% year-on-year in Q1 2025, driven by strong agricultural performance. Agriculture contributed 0.59% to GDP growth, with industrial output also rising by 0.5%. However, quarter-on-quarter growth dipped by 0.2% compared to Q4 2024, per INS data. Unemployment fell to 15.7%, while youth unemployment dropped to 37.7% and graduate joblessness to 23.5%. The government plans to resume public sector hiring for the first time since 2017. Minister Riyadh Chaoud confirmed that the 2025 budget includes 20,000 public job openings. The new hires are expected in public administration and state-owned enterprises. Officials hope this will ease Tunisia’s long-standing employment challenges. The data reflects cautious optimism amid persistent economic pressures. Observers stress the need for broader structural reforms to sustain gains.

Tunisia drops in global press freedom index

Tunisia fell 11 places to rank 129th in RSF’s 2025 World Press Freedom Index. RSF cited rising political, judicial, and economic pressure on journalists and outlets. “Self-censorship is spreading; fear is reshaping Tunisia’s media landscape,” RSF said. Several journalists remain jailed, including Sonia Dahmani and Chadha Hadj Mbarek. Boughalleb was jailed for criticising the Religious Affairs Ministry; he remains on trial. The 2022-54 Decree Law is now frequently used to prosecute media professionals. RSF warned of “systemic misuse” of outdated laws to silence dissent. Journalist arrests and suspended programs have sparked local and global concern. Media unions are calling for the repeal of repressive legal instruments. Press advocates say Tunisia risks democratic backsliding if trends continue.

President orders agricultural land audit

President Kais Saied has called for a full audit of Tunisia’s agricultural land assets. The audit will assess past distributions and investigate illegal land seizures. It coincides with the 61st anniversary of Law No. 5, which restricts land ownership to Tunisians. Saied said the audit must include all state properties, not just farmland. He noted that previous audit efforts were obstructed by vested interests. “This will ensure self-sufficiency and open global market access,” he said. The Ministry of Agriculture and Ministry of State Property will co-lead the audit, Agency Tunis Afrique Press reports. The President linked land justice to national economic sovereignty. He underscored the urgency of restoring legal clarity and halting exploitation.

Public transport sector overhaul

Tunisia’s public transport system is under review, with new buses on the way. President Kais Saied met with Transport Minister Rachid Amri to discuss plans. The goal is to ease commuting pressures as the system nears total collapse. He ordered that all barriers to bus imports be lifted immediately, Agency Tunis Afrique Press reports. The meeting also addressed persistent disruptions at national airline Tunisair. Saied rejected calls to privatise the carrier or move Tunis-Carthage Airport. “Tunisair must remain a national symbol of pride,” he stated. He vowed to shield public companies from sell-offs amid reform calls. The president framed the effort as part of a "national liberation" strategy. Officials say public services will be restored without foreign control.

Social justice take priority

President Saied has reiterated that social justice must guide all reforms in Tunisia. Meeting Prime Minister Zenzri, he warned against fragmented, sectoral solutions. “Only a national, collective approach can resolve the people’s grievances,” he said. He reviewed multiple draft laws and criticised past governments for diversion tactics. Saied recalled how revolutionary demands were reduced to shallow economic concessions. He accused remnants of the old regime of exploiting the system for personal gain. “Power is seen as spoils by those who have no love for the nation,” he said. He urged Tunisians to remain vigilant and pursue deep, systemic change. The President stressed that justice must be both structural and moral. Observers see this rhetoric as setting the tone for future political reforms.

The pact, endorsed by representatives from radio, television, print, and online outlets, as well as the Burkinabe Media Observatory (OBM) and the CSC, outlines mutual commitments between the press, the state, and media regulators, Le Faso reports.

The document is structured around three main components. The first commits media outlets to publicise the activities of the Defense and Security Forces (FDS) and Volunteers for the Defense of the Homeland (VDP), promote civic engagement, and contribute to national cohesion and intercommunal understanding.

The second outlines key demands from media actors toward the government , including tax reforms for media companies, full enforcement of the 2015 Right to Information law, and the establishment of a permanent consultation framework between the press and state institutions.

The third section designates the CSC and OBM as responsible for monitoring and facilitating implementation. A six-month review of the pact’s application has been proposed by CSC President Louis Modeste Ouédraogo, reported by Lefaso.net, a local news site.

After the four-hour amendment, adoption, and signing process, CSC President Louis Modeste Ouédraogo congratulated the journalists for their commitment. "We have just taken a historic, highly civic-minded step, which confirms the level of commitment of the entire national press to defending the general interest and safeguarding national unity," he said.

He also remarked that this is not an “attempt to muzzle the press.”

Director General for Radiodiffusion Télévision du Burkina (RTB), Atéridar Galip Somé noted that the state broadcaster has already aligned its editorial approach with national security priorities and described the pact as formalising an existing orientation.

The agreement follows a May 3 workshop organised by the CSC, which recommended a unified media framework to guide coverage during the security crisis.

According to South African Police Service (SAPS) National Commissioner General Fannie Masemola, one of the suspects led the police to the location of the bodies, the Star reports.

Authorities have not yet disclosed a motive for the killings; however, a multi-agency task force is still carrying out investigations.

Ndlovu, founder of Capital Live FM in Mamelodi, was a well-known figure in regional media circles. His death has drawn reactions from government officials and media organisations, highlighting broader concerns over journalist safety in South Africa.

Deputy Minister in the Presidency, Kenny Morolong, visited the Ndlovu family on 4 May and announced plans to visit the radio station where Ndlovu worked. He condemned the killings and described them as part of a broader pattern of violence in the country, acknowledging Ndlovu’s commitment to public service through his work in the media.

"Mr. Ndlovu made significant contributions to democracy by informing and educating the public. His loss, along with Ms. Mdhluli’s, is a tragic reminder of the violence that continues to plague our communities," Morolong stated.

The African Media and Communicators Forum (AMCF) and the National Press Club (NPC) in South Africa issued statements expressing concern over the deaths.

It included short breaks for prayers, but Muizzu continued answering questions throughout.

The president responded to reporters and also took questions sent in by members of the public. His office said the long press session was held to mark World Press Freedom Day and to show support for journalists.

“He acknowledged the crucial role of the press in society and emphasised the importance of factual, balanced, and impartial reporting,” the president’s office told Agence France-Presse.

Around two dozen journalists attended the marathon briefing and were served food during the session.

Muizzu, 46, came to power in 2023.

According to his team, the nearly 15-hour press talk beats the previous record of 14 hours held by Ukraine’s President Volodymyr Zelensky since 2019.

Before that, Belarusian leader Alexander Lukashenko had set a record with a press conference that lasted more than seven hours.

The Maldives government also used the event to highlight that the country had moved up two places in the 2025 World Press Freedom Index by Reporters Without Borders. It now ranks 104 out of 180 countries globally.

The Maldives, a small island nation in the Indian Ocean, is known for drawing attention to global issues in unusual ways.

In 2009, former president Mohamed Nasheed held the world’s first underwater cabinet meeting to warn about rising sea levels caused by climate change .

“The United States is ranked 57th in the World Press Freedom Index, a decline for a country that has historically offered strong constitutional guarantees for press freedom and the work of journalists,” said Thibaut Bruttin, Director General of RSF. “Trump is acting across all these areas, perhaps in an attempt to implement a societal model with extensive freedom of expression but limited press freedom.”

RSF highlights what it sees as a deliberate dismantling of media -support mechanisms. Bruttin pointed to Trump’s decision to defund USAID, the U.S. development agency that has historically played a crucial role in supporting independent media in fragile democracies and conflict zones.

“USAID is now on the verge of disappearing,” Bruttin said. “It financed countless media outlets in countries where press freedom is already under threat. The implications of its loss are global.”

The report also raises alarm over the fate of USAGM, the agency that oversees America’s external broadcasting arms, including Voice of America, Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty, and Radio Free Asia. With an annual budget of $800 million, USAGM plays a critical role in delivering independent news to populations in autocratic or crisis-stricken regions, surpassing even the budgets of the BBC World Service, France Médias Monde, and Deutsche Welle.

“In Burkina Faso, journalists and columnists who are critical of the government are now being forcibly removed and taken to the frontline, ostensibly to observe ‘the reality on the ground,’ a situation that is quite simply unique on the continent,” said Camille Montagu, RSF’s research officer for sub-Saharan Africa.

The report also highlights a climate of fear and surveillance in Guinea, where journalists face mounting risks. “Journalists who remain in the country are closely watched by the authorities. They can be followed in the street,” said Jeanne Lagarde, RSF’s Advocacy Officer for Sub-Saharan Africa, told the AFP.

“They are bearing witness to a deterioration in their security situation,” Lagarde pointed to the abduction of journalist Habib Marouane Camara on December 3 as a troubling example of the growing threats.

While both Guinea and Burkina Faso present serious concerns, there was some positive movement elsewhere in the region. 

Senegal climbed 20 places to 74th in this year’s index, although RSF notes that long-standing issues persist, particularly regarding the economic sustainability of media outlets.

VOA, a federally funded broadcaster operating since World War II, reaches an estimated 400 million people worldwide. The White House accused the network of promoting "radical propaganda" and defended the cuts as a necessary step to stop taxpayer funding of biased reporting.

Trump appointed a close ally, Kari Lake, as a special adviser to the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), VOA’s parent organization.

Critics, including press freedom groups, say the decision threatens independent journalism. "If an entire newsroom can be sidelined overnight, what does that say about press freedom?" the National Press Club said .

European leaders are exploring ways to support affected outlets, with the Czech government considering aid for Radio Free Europe.

The Hanoi court convicted Duc of "abusing democratic freedoms to infringe upon the interests of the state" after he posted 13 articles on Facebook. These articles reportedly garnered significant interaction, with many comments and shares, which the indictment claimed had a negative impact on social order and safety.

Duc, whose real name is Truong Huy San, expressed regret during the trial, admitting that some of his posts violated state interests but emphasising that he never intended to oppose the Communist Party or the government. He took full responsibility for his actions and apologized for the content of his posts.

The trial, which lasted only a few hours, took place just months after his arrest in June 2024. During his online activity prior to the arrest, Duc had specifically targeted Vietnam's top leaders, including Prime Minister To Lam and his predecessor, Nguyen Phu Trong. However, it remains unclear whether these particular posts contributed to the charges against him.

Vietnam, a one-party state, is known for its stringent control over the media and harsh penalties for dissent. It ranks among the top countries in the world for imprisoning journalists, according to the press freedom watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RSF).

The conviction of Huy Duc follows similar recent cases, including the jailing of blogger Duong Van Thai for 12 years over anti-state content and a prominent former lawyer who was imprisoned for three years in January for Facebook posts.

Huy Duc's career as a journalist includes serving as a senior army lieutenant before being dismissed in 2009 for criticizing the Soviet Union's past actions. He also spent a year at Harvard University in 2012 as a Nieman Fellow.

In May 2024, just before his arrest, Duc shared a Facebook post urging that "No country can develop sustainably based on fear."

Mech Dara was arrested on September 30, 2024, on charges of inciting social disorder.

His arrest was linked to several social media posts that authorities claimed contained false information and were harmful to Cambodia and its leaders.

During his detention, Dara was subjected to intense interrogation and was reportedly forced to apologise publicly.

On October 23, 2024, a pro-government media outlet released a video of Dara in prison, where he apologised to former Prime Minister Hun Sen and his son, current Prime Minister Hun Manet.

In the video, Dara admitted to posting false information and promised not to do so in the future.

This experience, he said, has severely impacted his spirit and resolve.

"After my experience from the arrest -from the questioning and then being in the prison- it really , really crushed my soul, the soul that is always with me like no matter what is happening, I continue to report. But the spirit or soul is not with me anymore," Dara told AFP

Mech Dara's reporting has been instrumental in uncovering cyber scams and human trafficking operations in Cambodia.

His work has appeared in various international news outlets, and he was previously associated with the independent Voice of Democracy in Cambodia, which was shut down by authorities in February 2023.

In 2023, he received a Hero Award from U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken for his investigations into human trafficking and forced criminality. This recognition highlighted the significant impact of his reporting on improving government responses to these issues.

Cambodia's constitution and the 1995 Press Law theoretically protect press freedom. However, these protections are often undermined by other laws and practices that restrict journalistic activities.

The application of criminal laws against journalists, including charges of defamation, incitement, and spreading false information, has created an environment of fear and self-censorship.

Media ownership in Cambodia is highly concentrated, with many outlets owned or controlled by individuals with close ties to the government.

This lack of media pluralism limits the diversity of viewpoints available to the public and often results in biased reporting that favours the government.

A growing number of young Zambians, like 18-year-old Mercy Banda, are choosing China for tertiary education, attracted by its strong academic standards and practical skills focus. Banda is set to study civil engineering in Beijing, believing that education in China will help her become a leading civil engineer and contribute to Zambia's infrastructure development. According to Xinhua , factors driving this trend include China's affordable education, available scholarships, and active promotion of its universities. Wensi Recruitment Agency, which has assisted over 200 Zambian youth in studying abroad, reports a significant increase in interest in studies in China compared to Europe.

Uranium recoveries

GoviEx Uranium Inc. has reported impressive uranium recoveries exceeding 90% at its Mutanga Project in Zambia, surpassing the previous average of 88%. CEO Daniel Major highlighted the advancements in metallurgical testing, which included increased column sizes for more accurate results. The improvements are crucial for the ongoing feasibility study, expected to reveal high recoveries and low acid consumption. GoviEx is finalizing operating and capital cost assessments and plans to release a full feasibility report by year-end, reports Proactive . The company is also working to meet IFC standards for its Environmental and Social Impact Assessment (ESIA) and is exploring early works to expedite the project.

FIFA U-17 women

The FIFA U-17 Women’s World Cup 2024 marks a significant milestone for African football, featuring Kenya's first appearance in a FIFA tournament and Zambia's continued participation. Zambia faced Brazil, losing 1-0 but demonstrating strong defensive resilience throughout the match despite conceding a goal in the 19th minute. Their performance showcased improvement and commitment in international competition. Kenya played against England, losing 2-0 in their historic debut. England took an early lead with a penalty, and despite Kenya’s efforts to counter, they could not equalise. A late goal from England sealed the match. Both teams’ experiences provide valuable lessons for future competitions and development in women’s football in Africa, CAF Online reports.

Zambian healthcare saves the day

Many Zimbabweans, facing a failing healthcare system, are seeking better medical care in Zambia. Shupikai Sithole, a cancer patient, illustrates this trend after her insufficient treatment in Zimbabwe led her family to the advanced facilities at Mtendere Mission Hospital in Zambia. Here, she found hope and compassionate care, contrasting sharply with her experiences in the overcrowded and under-resourced hospitals back home. The crisis in Zimbabwe's healthcare is exacerbated by economic and political issues, driving citizens to seek treatment abroad. Tom Shiriyedenga's tragic experience, having lost his wife due to inadequate care, underscores the need for urgent reform. He advocates for change to prevent others from facing similar hardships. According to Bulawayo , health experts emphasize the dire need for improvement in Zimbabwe’s healthcare infrastructure, calling for government action to ensure access to quality medical services is a constitutional right. As many continue to turn to Zambia and even South Africa for healthcare, the need for reform in Zimbabwe remains critical.

Journalist arrested three times in a year

Zambian journalist Thomas Allan Zgambo was arrested for the third time in a year on October 16, 2024, at a Lusaka police station without charges, sparking concerns from the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). They urged Zambian authorities to release him and drop all criminal cases against him, criticizing the government's failure to uphold press freedom despite President Hakainde Hichilema's promises. Zgambo's previous arrests were linked to charges of seditious practices stemming from his critical reporting on the government. His latest arrest followed Hichilema's public commitment to support press freedom. Zgambo claimed the arrests were attempts to silence him, reports Committee to Protect Journalists .

Europe remains a stronghold for a free press, with the Netherlands and Finland also securing the top 5 positions.

However, some Western countries, such as France (21st), the UK (23rd), and the USA (55th), are ranked lower than anticipated.

These are the top 10 countries with the highest press freedom:

The regulator accused the newspapers of publishing content that "threatens and is likely to affect and harm national unity and social peace of the United Republic of Tanzania."

The animated clip, just over a minute long, was first shared by The Citizen on social media on October 1.

It highlighted a growing number of abductions and disappearances in the country and featured a female cartoon character resembling President Samia, recognisable by her signature hijab.

The since-removed animation portrayed the character switching between TV stations, each broadcasting a different complaint about killings, abductions, or disappearances. By the end of the clip, the character appears visibly upset by the flood of grievances.

Mpoki Thomson, managing editor of The Citizen, responded to the suspension, stating that the animation was meant to address "events that raised concerns regarding the safety and security of individuals in Tanzania." He added, "Our decision to take down the animation stems from the misinterpretation it has generated, which diverges from our original intent."

The ban applies to all websites, social media accounts, and YouTube channels of the three newspapers.

President Samia’s government have been condemned for suppressing dissent ahead of next year’s general elections.

The government has been accused of targeting opposition members, with Chadema, Tanzania's main opposition party, claiming that security forces are responsible for the disappearances of several of its members.

Last month, key Chadema figures were detained ahead of a planned protest against the disappearances, and riot police were deployed in Dar es Salaam to prevent the demonstration. Several journalists covering the protest were reportedly detained as well.

"As I emerge from the dungeon of Belmarsh, the truth now seems less discernible," AFP quoted him "And I regret how much ground has been lost during that time period."

"I think everyone can tell that he is exhausted, that he is still very much in the process of of recovering. And at the moment the only concrete plan in the foreseeable future is that he will continue his recovery and that hopefully he will be a lot stronger physically and in a few months time," Stella Assange, Julian Assange's wife and lawyer added.

"It seems to me we are at a fork in the road. We can either continue on our current path — a treacherous 'new normal' — and sleepwalk into a dystopian future. Or we can wake up and turn things around for the better, for humanity and the planet," Turk said in an AFP footage.

The UN rights chief also called out top economies that allow these tensions and conflicts to fester just for their selfish political gains.

"There are those politicians, amplified by some media outlets, who scapegoat migrants, refugees, and minorities, as we have seen, for example, around electoral periods in Austria, France, Germany, Hungary, the United Kingdom and the United States of America, to name a few. They capitalise on anxiety and despair, pitting one group against the other, and they seek to distract and divide. History has shown us that hateful words can trigger hateful actions."

The world in a decade has witnessed some of the most dangerous military takeovers, wars and media repression it has ever seen.

Beyond the Russian-Ukranian war which has lasted over two years (from February 24, 2022 - present), the Gaza Strip and West Bank residents have mourned and buried the dead since the beginning of 2024.

As of Thursday, August 15, Palestine's official health ministry reported 40,005 Palestinians dead and 92,401 wounded.

The conflict erupted on October 7 when Hamas militants crossed the border into Israeli territories. According to Israel, the militants killed over 1,200 individuals, predominantly civilians, and captured 253 people, taking them into Gaza.

Stand News, a Chinese-language news outlet, gained significant popularity during the 2019 pro-democracy protests.

However, it was raided and shut down in December 2021 as part of a broader crackdown on dissent.

The editors were charged with conspiracy to publish and reproduce seditious publications, a charge rooted in colonial-era laws that have seen renewed use in recent years.

District court judge Kwok Wai-kin ruled that the articles published by Stand News had seditious intent, accusing the outlet of promoting illegal ideologies. The parent company, Best Pencil Limited, was also found guilty.

"The line (Stand News) took was to support and promote Hong Kong's local autonomy. It even became a tool to smear and vilify the Central Authorities (Beijing) and the (Hong Kong) SAR government," reads a written judgement by Kwok.

Critics argue that the use of outdated sedition laws to silence media and dissenting voices is a significant step back for press freedom in Hong Kong.

Beh Lih Yi from the Committee to Protect Journalists stated, "Journalism is not seditious. Today's oppressive ruling shows Hong Kong is descending further into authoritarianism"

Chung and Lam have been granted bail pending their sentencing on September 26. They face up to two years in prison under the colonial-era law, though recent security legislation could extend this to seven years.

According to Selina, she was also asked to refrain from advocating for media freedoms in her country.

"My supervisor in the UK directed me to withdraw from the election," Cheng told reporters on Wednesday after walking out of the Journal's Hong Kong bureau.

The Uganda Police has called off the much-anticipated "Stop Corruption March to Parliament" scheduled for July 23, 2024. This announcement was made earlier today by the Uganda Police Spokesman, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) Kituuma Rosoke. The cancellation follows rising tensions and significant mobilisation efforts on social media to encourage public participation in the event, Pulse Uganda reports. "Uganda Police is reliably informed of ongoing mobilization efforts on social media calling for people to march to parliament. Unidentified organizers have circulated placards urging people to gather on all Kampala streets on Tuesday, July 23, 2024, but the time of commencement and organizational details are unclear. Given the lack of transparency and the potential for disorder, the police strongly warn against proceeding with this march. Uganda Police Force is issuing a clear warning against attempts to incite violence or breach public order through uncontrolled demonstrations," ACP Kituuma Rosokestated.

New court bid to overturn draconian anti-homosexuality act

Ugandan activists have officially appealed the Constitutional Court's April decision, which upheld the constitutionality of the country's Anti-Homosexuality Act. “Today, we have filed an appeal in the Supreme Court of Uganda to overturn the Constitutional Court decision that upheld the Uganda Anti-Homosexuality Law,” tweeted leading Ugandan LGBTQ+ activist Dr Frank Mugisha on Thursday, July 11. According to Mamba Online , Human rights lawyer Dr Adrian Jjuuko stated that the joint submission by various activists and organizations marks the culmination of months of preparation for this extensive appeal record. He added, "Now the ball is back in the court's court!"

UNBS can't detect cancer-causing substances in food

The Uganda National Bureau of Standards (UNBS) has been found to lack the equipment necessary to test for cancer-causing substances in locally-made foods, beverages, and cosmetics. The report also highlights the association of radioactivity with various types of cancer. UNBS, however, insists that its laboratories are equipped with modern testing technology and are internationally accredited. However, concerns have been raised about the threat posed by other chemicals used in the food chain, and there is a call for standardised measures for preservatives, the Monitor reports.

'Devastating' TotalEnergies oil project

TotalEnergies' East African oil project in Uganda's national parks is causing significant environmental damage, according to a leading conservationist group. The project has led to biodiversity loss, displacement of people, and disruptions to wildlife.TotalEnergies insists it is a responsible operator, but environmentalists and rights activists have sued the company for alleged rights abuses. RFI also highlights that the project is also struggling to secure financing, and campaigners are calling for funding to be redirected to renewable energy projects.

President to 'crash' media for negative news

Uganda's President Museveni and presidential advisor Odrek Rwabwogo are concerned about negative media reports about Uganda. They want to address what they see as irresponsible journalism, which they believe is damaging the country's reputation and economy. They plan to centralise government communication, improve international image, and protect the country's global perception. They also want to coach officials on international communication practices and have monthly discussions on strategies to improve Uganda's image, as reported by The Observer .

He is facing charges of defamation and damaging of state reputation. The 41-year-old is also required to pay a fine of 3m CFA francs ($4,900; £3,900), BBC reports.

His lawyer Ibrahim Marhouf Sacko has announced plans to appeal the court’s verdict while maintaining he was “not surprised”.

In his defence in court earlier, Sissoko indicated that his book titled, “Propaganda, Agitation, and Harassment – government communication during the transition in Mali” was factual.

The book labels allegations of manipulation and lies to sway public opinion against the junta.

Human rights groups say Sissoko’s arrest is the latest case in a widespread crackdown on critics and political opponents of the military rulers.

The military junta banned media coverage of politics and suspended political party activities in April 2024, arresting persons who defied the orders.

Junta leader Assimi Goïta came to power in a coup in 2020 following anti-government protests.

The UK has pledged £6 million to train Zambian farmers in climate-smart agriculture techniques. The funding will help reduce deforestation, protect nature, and cut emissions. Farmers will be trained in crop rotation, diversification, and efficient irrigation to prevent forest clearing. The investment will also support agro-forestry and provide digital technology to cope with changing weather patterns. This initiative is part of the UK's efforts to protect nature, tackle climate change, and halt and reverse forest loss by 2030. Chief Nyamphande of Nyamphande Chiefdom in Eastern Zambia has expressed gratitude for the program's support in adapting to climate-sensitive agricultural practices, NUK reports.

Power outages

ZESCO Limited may increase load-shedding hours sooner than expected due to high power usage. Some areas are already experiencing more than eight hours of outages. According to News Diggers , the company has revised the load-shedding schedule to distribute power outages more equitably. Customers are concerned about the extended duration of outages, with power sometimes being off for 11 or 12 hours.

Road offences

A joint task force of Zambia Police and RTSA impounded 50 vehicles in Lusaka's CBD for various road offences. The vehicles included 44 minibuses, a Toyota Hiace, and six private vehicles. The operation was carried out on May 2, 2024, from 08:00 to 18:00 hours, News Diggers reports.

Solar power supply

Zambia and Turkey's YEO are partnering to build a 60 MW/20 MWh solar plant with battery storage in southern Zambia, expected to be operational by September 2025. The project aims to provide electricity to 65,000 households and mitigate power shortages in the country. According to PV Magazine , the Zambian government is also looking to tap into Turkey's expertise in engineering and battery storage to set up an assembly plant in the country.

Press freedom

The Ministry of Information and Media reaffirms the government's commitment to an independent and vibrant press. News Diggers reports that the Permanent Secretary pledged support to protect the media and recognize the power of journalism as a force for positive change in addressing the environmental crisis. This commitment was made during the commemoration of World Press Freedom Day.

Ghana has been ranked as the 4th most stressful country for workers in Sub-Saharan Africa, according to the 2023 Gallup’s State of the Global Workplace report. The survey revealed that Ghanaian workers experience stress daily, placing the country high on the list of stress-inducing work environments in the region, MyJoy Online reports. Chad topped the list, followed by Uganda, Tanzania, and Sierra Leone. Despite ongoing recovery efforts from the pandemic, employee stress levels remain high. "While the debate over remote, hybrid, or on-site work continues, employee engagement remains paramount in reducing stress levels. The flexibility of remote work offers autonomy and well-being, valued highly by today’s workers," the report stated.

IMF requests tariff adjustment

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) has urged Ghana to implement strict reforms to empower utility service providers to ensure reliable and sustainable power for households and industries. Speaking at a press briefing in Accra, IMF representatives emphasized the need for an enabling environment for private sector players to increase renewable energy use. “Sometimes, the setup of the energy sector does not provide the utilities the ability to have cost recovery from the charges that they make to operate profitably and efficiently and supply energy as needed,” said Catherine Pattillo, an IMF Deputy Director. The call for tariff adjustments comes amidst recent power outages in Ghana, attributed to financial challenges in procuring fuel for power plants.

Injunction against genetically modified crops dismissed

The Human Rights Court 1 has dismissed an interlocutory injunction application filed by Food Sovereignty Ghana and others against the National Biosafety Authority (NBA) over the approval of 14 genetically modified organism (GMO) crops for food, feed, and processing in Ghana, according to local media Graphic Online . The court acknowledged the NBA's diligence in ensuring the safety and regulatory compliance of GMO crops in Ghana.

Press freedom ranking improves

Ghana has moved up 12 places in the World Press Freedom Index, ranking 50th globally. While this indicates progress, challenges remain, particularly regarding political interference in journalism. Recent incidents, including attacks on journalists and interruptions during media coverage, highlight ongoing concerns about press freedom in Ghana, the Accra Times reports. “This is what happened in Nigeria (ranked 112th in the 2024 World Press Freedom Index), where nearly 20 reporters were attacked in early 2023. In Madagascar (100th), ten were attacked by political activities during pre-election protests. In the Democratic Republic of Congo (123rd), where politicians often try to intimidate media personnel, the journalist Stanis Bujakera’s detention pending trial on a trumped-up charge prevented him from covering the run-up to the elections,” the report notes.

31 new COVID-19 cases

The Ghana Health Service (GHS) has reported 31 new cases of COVID-19 in the country in the past week. While the cases are not severe, health officials stress the importance of vaccination and containment measures. A national vaccination exercise is set to commence on May 5th, underscoring efforts to minimize the spread of the virus and protect public health, local media Citi News reports. “In the past week or so, we were recording some significant numbers up to about 30 or 31 or so. But this is not unexpected. As we have already been saying, COVID has come to stay with us. It is part of us. And so from time to time and that is why we also haven’t given up on vaccination and so if you are aware, from 5th to 9th May, we are going to do another exercise of COVID vaccination. So we are doing the national COVID-19 vaccination exercise as part of our strategies to reduce COVID to the barest minimum,” Programmes Manager at the Expanded Programme on Immunization at the Ghana Health Service, Dr Kwame Amponsah-Achiano said.

Tunisia's maritime guards have rescued 1,335 undocumented immigrants from sinking boats and foiled 31 illegal immigration attempts in the past 24 hours. The operations involved arresting eight organisers and seizing 14 steel boats. according to a statement released on April 4. Measures against the immigrants will be taken after consultation with the public prosecutor's office, Xinhua reported.

Four sentenced to death for 2013 assassination

A Tunisian court has sentenced four people to death and two to life in prison for participating in the murder of political leader Chokri Belaid 11 years ago, Reuters reported on March 27. Belaid, a leftist politician, was shot dead by gunmen in his car in February 2013. The assassination shocked Tunisia and sparked violent protests following the Arab Spring in 2011. The jihadist Ansar Al-Sharia, an organisation classified as a "terrorist group" by the North African government, was involved in the assassination.

Trial of prominent journalist

Mohamed Boughalleb, a prominent Tunisian journalist, was put under pre-trial detention following a March 26 court hearing where he discussed corruption and the misuse of public funds by ministers and public institutions. Boughalleb's arrest came four days after he was arrested in Tunis on suspicion of insulting a public official on social media. His trial is scheduled for April and could lead to a two to four-year sentence, his lawyer disclosed to the Associated Press. The National Journalist Syndicate president of Tunisia, Zied Dabbar, condemned Boughalleb's apprehension, citing it as proof of how widespread the country's pursuit of journalists has grown. He added that eight journalists are on trial right now. "We can not produce on-demand journalism that conforms to the desires of those in power. What should a journalist do when he learns that a minister travels using public funds with a civil servant who didn't professionally have to be there? Must he keep quiet and not reveal the scandal? " Dabbar said.

Trafficking of illicit waste toward Tunisia

An investigation by the Financial Police, Customs and Monopolies Agency, and the Regional Agency for the environmental protection of Tuscany, Italy revealed a container bound for Tunisia supposed to contain textile waste was carrying undeclared waste, including plastic materials, leather, and household appliance waste.  According to Nova News , further examination into three other containers with similar characteristics, including discarded clothes, old household appliances, shoes, and toys. The criminal investigation resulted in the seizure of 82,5 tons of mixed waste was confirmed by the Italian authorities.

Foreign student leader released

Christian Kwongang, former president of the Association of African Students and Interns in Tunisia (AESAT), has been released from Tunisian authorities. Kwongang, a Cameroonian, was arrested in the North African nation on March 19 and released on March 29. He was accused of violating Tunisian law and undermining public order. Kwongang was questioned about his activities following President Kais Saied's divisive speech last year in which he criticised a wave of undocumented immigrants as a demographic threat, the Students' Union claimed.

In June, President Xiomara Castro created the Agrarian Security Commission, an entity aimed at settling disputes over land titles, improving conditions for 63% of Honduras who live in rural areas, and protecting landowners from invaders. However, La Prensa reports that six months into its foundation, the Commission has not been able to stop squatting throughout the country. Up to December, there are almost 99,000 acres of illegally occupied land, a 15% increase from the date the Agrarian institution started operating. Leaders of the private sector lamented that the Commission was unsuccessful in stopping invaders. Human rights defenders, on the other hand, worry that violent evictions have increased since the creation of the Agrarian Security Commission.

US$8.2m for biosphere reserve protection

A joint fund between the local Government and the European Union seeks to protect the country’s largest protected area from unsustainable agriculture, wildfires, and gold extraction. Honduras’ Forest Conservation Institute (ICF) has invested over US$1.4 million to protect the Rio Plátano Biosphere Reserve, the country’s largest protected area with over 350,000 hectares. This is part of a US$8.2 million fund, with support from the European Union, allocated to safeguarding this area. According to La Prensa , this biosphere reserve has been affected by agriculture and cattle raising, drug trafficking, wildfires, illegal fishing, evictions of indigenous communities, and illegal construction of highways. The president of the ICF, Luis Solís, also lamented that gold extraction is damaging Honduras’ largest protected area. Solís detailed that they have invested in promoting sustainable agricultural management, wildfire prevention, and reforestation efforts.

Murder of journalist condemned

Despite having state protection measures, Francisco Ramírez and the police officer assigned to protect him were attacked on December 21st. On Tuesday, the Inter-American Press Association (IAPA) condemned the murder of Honduran journalist Francisco Javier Ramírez Amador. He was attacked along with a police officer assigned to protect him, due to a previous attempt to kill him in May. This murder adds to that of José Amílcar Chávez, owner of a Christian radio station and correspondent for the news show Hoy Mismo. Roberto Rock, president of IAPA, urged Honduran authorities to investigate the case thoroughly and said it is “outrageous that this happened despite the victim having precautionary measures for his protection.” 

“Traditional products” among Honduras’ highest exports

Coffee, bananas, shrimp, and African palm oil dominate the country’s exports. According to El Heraldo , Honduras’ exports have been spearheaded by these four “traditional” products. Data from the country’s Central Bank (BCH) shows that out of US$5.1 billion in exports, these products have represented 49.72% (US$2.5 billion). The United States of America remains Honduras’ largest trading partner, receiving around 35-44% of its exports. A 2021 assessment by the Spanish Government shows that although Honduras has been trying to diversify its exports, those four products still dominate its international trade.

Thirteen institutions “fail” internal evaluation

El Heraldo reports that on December 27th, Honduran President Xiomara Castro shared the results of an internal assessment of government institutions. Marcio Sierra, head of the country’s Management by Results Direction, explained the evaluation criteria: there were 860 goals divided by performance, level of execution, and transparency. Out of the Executive branch’s 95 institutions, 13 of them failed the test with a score lower than 60%. Castro did not specify which institutions did not pass the assessment but warned that on January 1st, there will be changes in her cabinet. The President also urged public officials to open up to the press and the people. 

Candidates refuse to sign code of conduct

The DRC’s presidential elections have 25 candidates, including incumbent President Félix Tshisekedi. A code of conduct was extended to presidential candidates by the Congolese Electoral Commission (CENI) before the start of the official election campaign on November 19.

The code of conduct outlines the candidates' commitment to opposing all types of violence during the electoral, pre-election, and post-election phases. By signing it, candidates pledged to follow the law and accept the results of the election results.

In December it was reported that several presidential candidates refused to sign the code of good conduct proposed by the CENI.

“We will not sign this code of good conduct because we consider that since the start of the process, the CENI has not behaved in a good manner and that today Today, we do not always have any answers on what is happening on an operational and technical level,” said presidential candidate Delly Sesanga.

Threats and violent clashes

The head of the United Nations Stabilization Mission in Congo Bintou Keita, said that “violent clashes between supporters of rival political parties were occurring in many provinces.”

Freelance Congolese journalist John Kanyunyu told Journalist in Danger (JED) about threats made on his life ahead of the December polls.

“I received information from the services having been instructed to ‘take care of me’ because allegedly in the service of presidential candidate Moise Katumbi. I am made to wear a hat that I never tried to put on by the non-apparent services of power here in the city and my security has become too fragile so that I find myself unable to do my job. in this critical and sensitive period,” he said .

History of violence and controversy

The country has suffered from political instability and human rights abuses since its independence in 1960 and has faced two devastating wars that involved multiple neighbouring countries and claimed millions of lives.

The Congolese authorities postponed elections for more than two years, allowing Former President Joseph Kabila to hold office past the two-term limit stipulated by the nation’s constitution, which expired on December 19, 2016.

The previous elections in December 2018 were marred by delays, irregularities, and controversy. Voting in three opposition districts was moved to March 2019, which prevented over a million Congolese citizens from exercising their right to vote.

More than 1,000 polling centres in the nation's capital, Kinshasa, were abruptly closed, issues with voter lists and electronic voting equipment occurred, and many polling places opened later than planned, making it impossible for other voters to cast their ballots.

The opposition and civil society rejected the results and accused the electoral commission of fraud.

Mahbube Siraj, women's rights activist and executive director of the Women's Skills Training Center in Afghanistan, won the biennial Finland Gender Equality Award on December 11. The Finnish government said this award, which is accompanied by a donation of 300,000 euros, has been given to Mahbouba Siraj for her efforts in supporting women and creating safe shelters and jobs for them.

Taliban's reaction to drought

The Minister of “enjoining good and forbidding bad”
of the Taliban regime, in response to people's concerns about the continuation of the drought, ordered that people throughout Afghanistan pray for rain for three days. In the notification of the Ministry of Good and Prohibition of the Taliban regime which was issued on December 12, it is stated that people should come to pre-specified places on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays at 9:00 am and pray for rain.

Nasim Radio Afghanistan director jailed

The Taliban court in Daikundi, accused Sultan Ali Javadi, the director of Radio Nasim, the only free audio media in the central regions of Afghanistan (Bamiyan and Daikundi), of cooperating with media outside of Afghanistan, reflecting news of moral and administrative corruption of local Taliban officials, and cooperating with critics. He was sentenced to one year in prison. This sentence was delivered to Sultan Ali Javadi by the Taliban court in Nili city on Monday, December 11.

"Jihadist commander" killed

Unknown armed men killed one of the "jihadi commanders" in Herat province on Sunday evening, December 10. On Sunday evening, Mohammad Naeem Jamshidi was on his way to his home from the centre of Rabat Sangi in the north of Herat city, when he was shot by two motorcycle riders. According to Naeem Jamshidi's relatives, he was targeted along with one of the residents of Chahardare village and the said person survived. Naeem Jamshidi was active as the commander of popular uprising forces against the Taliban for many years.

"Afghan meeting" in Germany

The participants in the thirty-seventh "Afghan meeting" of the Evangelical Academy in the "Villigast" district criticized the policy of interaction with the Taliban and demanded a change in this approach. The "Afghan meeting" of the Evangelical Academy, which is held annually in Germany, was planned in the city of Shorte, North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, entitled "Take the facts seriously, be responsible and strengthen communication" hosting representatives of the Taliban regime. Following criticism about the presence of a Taliban official in the city of Cologne, Willigst Evangelical Academy was pressured to cancel the trip of Taliban representatives to participate in the two-day conference "Afghanistan Session" and had to cancel their invitation.

Radio broadcaster Juan Jumalon was fatally shot while on the air at radio station 94.7 Calamba Gold FM, located in his residence at Barangay Don Bernardo A. Neri in Calamba town, Misamis Occidental, in the southern part of the Philippines.

In response to the incident, Marcos Jr. has instructed the Philippine National Police to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the murder of the radio broadcaster. The police have already carried out a dragnet operation and established checkpoints in an effort to apprehend the possible suspect while the investigation is ongoing.

If it is determined that Jumalon's killing is related to his work, it would mark the 199th such incident in the Philippines since 1986.

The government has yet to resolve the cases of various media personalities who lost their lives during the Marcos Jr. administration, including Percival Mabasa and Cresenciano Bunduquin, among others.

According to the recently released Global Impunity Index by the Committee to Protect Journalists, the Philippines remains a perilous environment for reporters, particularly radio journalists.

The Philippines has been ranked eighth among the "nations with the poorest track record in prosecuting individuals responsible for journalist killings." This marks an increase from its 8th position in 2022, primarily due to Haiti's inclusion in the index this year.

In response to the situation, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has instructed the Philippine National Police to launch an inquiry into Jumalon's murder, and a special investigation task group (SITG) has been established.

The Presidential Task Force on Media Security (PTFoMS) has also alerted the National Bureau of Investigation to assist in collecting evidence. Furthermore, the Department of Justice has pledged to ensure a comprehensive investigation, as well as the swift identification and prosecution of the culprits, while strongly condemning the crime.