GJA calls for better pay and conditions to protect media independence

The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has urged for enhanced pay and conditions to safeguard media autonomy, warning that insufficient welfare endangers the profession's independence and ethical standards. President Albert Dwumfour highlighted that the challenging economic environment many journalists endure continues to erode the dignity and independence of the profession.

At the 30th GJA Media Awards in Accra, Dwumfour outlined persistent issues such as low remuneration, unstable employment, subpar working conditions, irregular salary disbursements, and restricted avenues for professional growth. He emphasized that insufficient pay and job stability could make journalists more susceptible to external pressures and professional compromises.

Dwumfour stressed that addressing journalists' welfare is crucial, not merely as a labor concern, but as an investment in media independence, ethical integrity, and the health of our democracy. He underscored that if the media sector expects journalists to maintain a high standard of professionalism and hold public bodies accountable, the industry must first address the economic realities faced by media practitioners.

Dwumfour affirmed that while the GJA champions courageous, independent, and ethical journalism, it cannot do so while ignoring the conditions under which these professionals operate. The Association is actively engaging with Parliament to advocate for legislative changes to improve media practitioners' working conditions. Furthermore, GJA is collaborating with Parliament, media owners, and labor stakeholders to devise a comprehensive framework to tackle issues related to remuneration, job security, and the overall welfare of journalists.