The President of the Association of Journalists of Cape Verde (Ajoc) told Lusa this Friday that the country “cannot ignore” the view of Cape Verdeans that freedom of the press and expression is regressing.
For Hayok president Jeremias Furtado, this is “another sign” that reflection and action need to be taken.
That sentiment was reflected in a survey released Thursday by the National Statistical Institute (INE), the same month the country dropped to 41st place (33rd in 2023) in the annual press freedom index published by Reporters Without Borders ” (RSF), which nevertheless retains it as a reference in a regional context.
“We once again draw the attention of the state, which is obliged to guarantee freedoms,” said Geremias Furtado, believing that the country must “stop ignoring” various voices pointing to a number of situations that impede the full implementation of human rights. freedom of the press in Cape Verde.
Geremias Furtado cites as an example how those responsible for government bodies are still chosen, as well as some “harassment” of journalists on social networks.
The leader also mentioned financial difficulties in the private media sector as a factor limiting the work of journalists.
“We have already warned about this, and now there is a report that takes into account the opinion of society,” emphasized the journalist, who was re-elected president of Ajok at the beginning of the month.
Geremias Furtado also called on journalists to “leave their comfort zone” to go “deeper” into work that “changes society.”
“This is everyone’s job and Hayok is open to dialogue to contribute to improving the situation in Cape Verde while respecting press freedom,” he said.
According to the third Governance, Peace and Security survey for 2023, the population believes that respect for most human rights analyzed has decreased, highlighting freedom of the press and freedom of expression, which decrease by about 19.5. and 13.3 percentage points, respectively.
“Less than half of the population believe that freedom of the press (38.3%), freedom of speech (36.2%), freedom from discrimination (31.8%) and equality before the law (29.2%) are respected,” the report says. document. is reading.
The survey was based on a sample of 4,962 households, with only one person at least 18 years of age interviewed per household, covering 22 municipalities in Cape Verde, between October and December 2023.
Author: Lusa
Source: CM Jornal
I’m Dave Martin, and I’m an experienced journalist working in the news industry. As a part of my work, I write for 24 News Reporters, covering mostly sports-related topics. With more than 5 years of experience as a journalist, I have written numerous articles on various topics to provide accurate information to readers.