FAJ warns of information integrity risk as denial of access to information fuels online disorder
This year's theme, "Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age: The Role of Access to Information in Addressing Information Disorder", speaks to a crisis already shaping public debate across Africa.
On the International Day for Universal Access to Information, the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ) has sounded the alarm on the risks to information integrity in Africa. FAJ asserts that unrestricted access to accurate information is vital for democracy, peace, social harmony, accountability, and public participation. This year's theme, "Upholding Information Integrity in the Digital Age," highlights a pressing crisis spreading across Africa through false election claims, WhatsApp rumors, and AI-generated media that incite conflict and erode trust.
Barriers such as secrecy, censorship, and inadequate journalism practices deny citizens the right to unfettered information, while language, location, and connectivity obstacles further marginalize communities. Omar Faruk Osman, FAJ's President, insists that governments must release information promptly and transparently, journalists must work freely and safely, and the public must have the facts to counter falsehoods and hold leaders accountable.
FAJ urges African Union nations to align their laws and practices with the Model Law on Access to Information for Africa. Existing laws should be fully implemented and enforced, while states lacking such legislation must adopt standards-compliant statutes. FAJ rejects censorship and state control measures, advocating for robust, independent journalism, safe working conditions, and media literacy education. The federation calls on digital platforms to enhance transparency in content recommendation and moderation.
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