WPFD: Demonstrate stronger commitment to press freedom and free speech — WADEMOS to West African leaders

Leaders across West Africa have been urged to demonstrate a stronger commitment to defending press freedom and freedom of expression in the region.

The call comes from the West Africa Democracy Solidarity Network (WADEMOS) in observance of World Press Freedom Day on Friday, May 3.

In a statement, WADEMOS expressed "grave concern about the spate of democratic decline in West Africa characterized by the re-emergence of military juntas and authoritarian regimes which have further exacerbated human rights abuses and restrictions on press freedom and the civic space."

The network highlighted worrying trends in several countries. In Burkina Faso, it said the government had banned about 13 international media outlets and restricted local broadcasts.

Niger's government recently suspended the activities of “Maison de la Presse,” a media organization.

Togo has seen years of crackdowns on dissenting views in the press and civil society, lamented WADEMOS.

"As a regional pro-democracy network and mindful of the various international and continental frameworks and instruments on democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, we urge all leaders, and regional and national institutions within the sub-region to foster a culture of open access to information, transparency, respect for human rights and press freedoms, in addition to free speech, and civil dialogue," WADEMOS stated.

The group called on adhering to constitutions and frameworks guaranteeing press freedom and civic rights.

To them, a strong press and active civic participation are "crucial pillars of democracy, good governance, and a sphere for citizen involvement."

Only by strengthening legal protections and addressing the shrinking space, they argued, can West African nations safeguard freedoms and counter threats like the spread of misinformation online.