Media, Security Agencies Meet in Juba on Journalist Safety and Press Freedom

David John Kumiri, Director of Public Relations and Spokesperson of the National Security Service, described the seminar as a vital platform to promote collaboration and reduce friction between journalists and security actors.

He reaffirmed that freedom of expression is protected by South Sudanese law, but added that the National Security Act mandates the security service to monitor media content in order to guard against its misuse by individuals or groups with hostile intentions.

He called for sustained dialogue beyond spokespersons, suggesting that junior security officers also need to be involved in future forums to ensure consistent understanding of media roles and rights.

AMDISS Executive Director Ayaa Irene emphasised the importance of journalism in democratic governance. She highlighted that journalists help inform the public, hold leaders accountable, and uncover corruption and human rights abuses, contributions that are vital for national development and good governance.

Ayaa reminded journalists that their safety also depends on their adherence to legal boundaries and professional ethics.

“Your safety as a journalist begins with you. Practise journalism within the confine of the law. Uphold the code of conduct and ethics of journalism,” she said. “While freedom of the press is essential to democracy, it is not absolute. You are responsible for reporting that is accurate, fair and balanced.”

A key part of the seminar was the presentation of a media landscape report by Chris Marol, Deputy Chairperson of the AMDISS Executive Board. The report outlined several challenges facing South Sudanese journalists, including limited access to information, legal insecurity and threats of harassment or detention.

Common Challenges Identified in the Report

Issue	Description
Harassment	Verbal threats, surveillance, or intimidation
Censorship	Interference in editorial decisions
Legal Risks	Arbitrary arrest or unclear laws
Limited Access to Information	Restriction from public institutions
Inadequate Protection	Lack of legal or physical safety mechanisms

The seminar aimed to promote long term dialogue between the media and state institutions to ensure a safe working environment for journalists, particularly those covering sensitive issues such as politics, security and human rights.

Journalists in South Sudan continue to work under difficult circumstances, often without sufficient pay, insurance or legal protection.

Participants in the seminar included representatives from the Union of Journalists of South Sudan, Media Development Institute, UNESCO South Sudan, Journalists for Human Rights (JHR), Catholic Radio Network, NPA South Sudan, and the EU Delegation in South Sudan.

The forum concluded with calls for continued engagement, capacity building and legal reforms to ensure journalists in South Sudan can carry out their work safely and effectively. AMDISS and its partners expressed hope that these discussions will lead to stronger frameworks for press freedom and protection across the country.