Issue
Despite constitutional guarantees and international commitments to press freedom, journalists in Lesotho continue to encounter challenges that affect their safety and independence, particularly during periods of heightened political activity.
How we are helping
This project aims to promote freedom of expression in Lesotho by fostering a safe and enabling environment for journalists to report on matters of public interest, and supporting the development of a balanced regulatory framework that upholds access to information.
About the project
In Lesotho, a combination of limited legal protections and legislation with potentially restrictive effects has created an environment in which media practitioners often feel vulnerable, particularly during periods of heightened political activity. While recent political reforms present an opportunity for positive change, the absence of an Access to Information law and concerns surrounding the implementation of legislation such as the Computer Crime and Cyber Security Bill, highlight the need for continued dialogue and legal clarity. These gaps pose challenges for both the media and civil society in promoting transparency and public accountability.
Project partner, Sesotho Media and Development, will work to strengthen protections for press freedom and to foster a safe and inclusive working environment for journalists.
This will be achieved by:
- conducting training sessions for journalists on risk assessment and digital security
- establishing a helpline to offer advice and legal support to journalists facing harassment or threats
- forming a media protection and accountability taskforce to engage with security institutions on developing protocols and guidelines that safeguard journalists, particularly during politically sensitive periods
- developing a policy brief examining the implications of the Cyber Security Act for press freedom in Lesotho
- conducting public awareness campaigns to emphasise the importance of a free and independent press
- organising advocacy meetings with parliamentarians to support the advancement of the Access to Information Bill.
As a result of this project, it is hoped that journalists in Lesotho will experience a safer media environment from which to report independently on matters of public interest.
Project Partners
Sesotho Media and Development (SM&D) is non-profit civil society organisation based in Maseru, Lesotho, committed to leveraging the influential medium of film and media to initiate conversations, challenge societal attitudes, and disseminate information in support of human rights. At the heart of SM&D’s strategic approach is the mobilisation of local service providers and collaborative efforts with diverse local and international non-governmental organisations. This synergy ensures that SM&D’s initiatives are fortified with essential expertise and resources, enabling the provision of psychosocial, legal, and sexual health services to marginalised and underserved groups.
We support people's participation in democracy and development by providing grants, platforms, and expertise.
