The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is once again included in the world press freedom rankings established by Reporters Without Borders (RSF) for the year 2024. With a position stagnating at 123rd place, the situation of media and journalists in the country remains a concern.
The RSF report highlights the pressure and reprisals faced by some journalists, particularly in the east of the country where coverage of conflicts and sensitive issues such as corruption or mining contracts is hampered. Self-censorship is common among media professionals, who sometimes face threats based on their ethnic or community origin.
The safety of journalists is also a source of concern, with cases of arrests, attacks, threats and even enforced disappearances. Political actors are not left out, since they can also exert pressure on the media and journalists to influence the editorial line. Despite a ceasefire in North Kivu, tensions persist and media professionals remain exposed to risks.
The NGO Journalists in Danger (JED) denounces the bias of the High Council for Audiovisual and Communication (CSAC) for its recent decision banning any mention of rebel forces in the media. Press freedom is thus put to the test, with attacks on freedom of expression and obstacles to the exercise of journalism.
On the occasion of International Press Freedom Day, President Félix Tshisekedi underlined the importance of this democratic pillar. He expressed his solidarity with journalists who face daily challenges in informing the population despite pressures and threats. Press freedom remains a major issue for the consolidation of democracy in the DRC and must be protected and defended.
In conclusion, the fight for press freedom in the DRC remains an everyday battle, requiring the commitment of the authorities, political actors, the media and civil society. It is essential to guarantee a safe and conducive environment for the practice of journalism, in order to allow the media to exercise their role as a counter-power and guarantor of transparency and democracy.