Guinea-Bissau: Security of journalists, ethics and media freedom at the heart of the democratic debate

The European Union's High Representative for Cooperation, Justice, Security, Gender Equality and Human Rights, Carlos Abaitua Zarza, affirmed that freedom of expression is "a fundamental right and an essential pillar of any democratic society." This statement was made at the closing ceremony of the joint project "Promoting and Protecting Democracy by Safeguarding Freedom of Opinion and Expression and Combating Disinformation in Guinea-Bissau," funded by the European Union and conducted over a period of 18 months, last Wednesday.

A project for a free and protected press

The initiative focused on strengthening journalistic ethics, the safety of professionals, and the independence of media outlets. It promoted self-regulation, journalist training, and raising awareness among young people and the general public about the opportunities offered by the media, while also highlighting the dangers of disinformation.

According to Zarza, a free and professional press "guarantees citizens access to credible, pluralistic, and rigorous information," enabling public debate and oversight of institutions. He emphasized the importance of supporting quality journalism within a fragile institutional context, reiterating that the media are essential for transparency and public trust.

Actors mobilized for ethics

Julie Godignon, program manager at the Hirondelle Foundation, emphasized that trust in the media "is built every day with rigor, transparency, and genuine listening to communities." She expressed hope that the project's achievements would endure, calling for a continued commitment to reliable and independent journalism.

For his part, Domingos Meta Camará, interim president of the National Council for Social Communication (CNCS), reiterated that freedom of opinion and expression is "the very foundation of democracy." He believes the solution to current challenges lies in civic education, investment in responsible journalism, and the promotion of critical thinking.

A shared commitment

The ceremony brought together journalists, media associations, civil society organizations, government institutions, academics, and members of the diplomatic corps. All reaffirmed that freedom of expression, the safety of journalists, and media ethics are inseparable from a vibrant and participatory democracy.