### The suspension of Joliba TV: an echo to the challenges of press freedom in Mali and beyond
Almost four months after Joliba TV, a Malian television channel, was placed under the yoke of a six -month suspension due to the broadcasting of a controversial debate on a coup in Burkina Faso, a wider reflection is essential. Through the prism of this situation, it is the entire Malian media landscape, as well as the challenges faced by journalists around the world, which are taking shape. But beyond the simple history of censorship, this incident also illustrates how larger political issues interact with freedom of expression and the role of the media.
#### The quest for truth in a volatile political context
The suspension of Joliba TV is not just the result of a media controversy. It is a response to a climate of uncertainty and distrust within a society already weakened by recent political upheavals. The analogy with other countries in the Sahel, where press freedom is threatened by governments often quick to muzzle dissident voices, is striking. For example, according to the 2023 report of reporters without borders, more than 50 journalists were arrested in neighboring countries such as Burkina Faso and Niger, often under the pretext of national security or hate incitement. In Mali, this hiatus in the dialogue between the chain and the High Authority for Communication (HAC) testifies to a disturbing trend: democratic dialogue is increasingly congested by political guidelines.
### Statistics and trends in press freedom in Africa
By examining the broader trends in press freedom, it is important to note that the commitment to the free press in sub -Saharan Africa is declining. A Freedom House study in 2023 revealed that 22 in 49 countries in the region experienced a decline in the press freedom index. This phenomenon, although worrying, does not constitute a fatality but a call for mobilization and resistance. The reaction of journalists of Joliba TV, who, despite their frustration, choose to give up rallies to favor dialogue, illustrates frequent ambivalence in countries under authoritarianism: favor survival to resistance.
#### A call for collective action
Beyond the situation of Joliba TV, it is essential to explore the proactive elements that the clever media could adopt to prevent such suspensions in the future. A proposal would be the creation of a journalistic security charter on a national scale, similar to those set up in other countries in prey to similar crises. In parallel, a collective approach where the media or press rooms unite to defend their rights could serve as a shield against state intimidation. Initiatives such as “press -free days” or awareness campaigns on the importance of press freedom could be considered as constructive measures, promoting the awareness of the population to these critical issues.
#### Resilience of local media: a glow of hope
Despite the challenges that stand on the way to freedom of expression, the commitment of journalists and organizations like the Maison de la Presse in Mali turns out to be a symbol of resilience and hope. This mutual support between journalists, often essential to overcome censorship and repression, shows that solidarity can play a crucial role. As a member of the editorial staff of Joliba TV points out, the Malian media community owes its survival to this solidarity, highlighting a dynamic requiring more institutions that support independent journalism.
#### Conclusion
The suspension of Joliba TV, although specific to an incident, evokes broader questions concerning press freedom in Mali and throughout Africa. By examining this case in the light of the global challenges encountered by journalists, not only as individuals but also as professionals engaged in a fight for honesty and truth, we are called to reflect on the means of protecting this essential element of our democracies. Faced with the threats that weigh on freedom of expression, the time has come for a renewed plea in favor of daring, independent and fearless journalism, which intends to continue to make its voice heard, at all costs.