Mauritania, Liberia and Gambia back RSF-initiated Dakar Declaration on Right to Information in Sahel

The article highlights a critical initiative by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) to combat the severe decline in press freedom across the Sahel, where rising violence, kidnappings, and disinformation have created "no-information zones." By launching the Declaration on the Right to Information in the Sahel, RSF urges governments to adhere to ten principles that guarantee journalists the safety, access, and legal protections necessary to report reliably. This effort aims to reverse the trend of silencing local media and ensures that citizens can access credible information even during conflicts or social unrest. Three nations have already committed to supporting this framework, emphasizing the vital role of community radio stations in keeping the region informed. The initiative is part of a broader campaign that mobilizes media actors, civil society, and international partners to protect local media independence and sustainability. By recognizing the Journalism Trust Initiative as a benchmark for quality, the declaration seeks to strengthen public trust in news and counteract the spread of misinformation that thrives in unstable environments. This development is highly relevant to open_data because it underscores the necessity of accessible, reliable, and unbiased information as a public good. Open data initiatives rely on a free press to interpret and disseminate complex information to the public effectively. Without the protection of journalists and the guarantee of internet access, the transparency required for open government and data-driven societies cannot exist. Ensuring these fundamental rights helps maintain the integrity of information ecosystems, which is essential for accountability and informed civic participation.

Source: rsf.org
Published on 2025-10-30

Mauritania, Liberia and Gambia back RSF-initiated Dakar Declaration on Right to Information in Sahel

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