South Sudan commits to freedom of journalists on radio day

13 Feb 2013

South Sudan commits to freedom of journalists on radio day

13 February 2013 - As the world commemorated World Radio Day today, the South Sudanese government emphasized its commitment to protect freedom of expression and information.

"South Sudan will be known as a democratic country where ... the fact that journalists will be free to seek information everywhere will be guaranteed by the law and by the Constitution," said Minister of Information and Broadcasting Barnaba Marial Benjamin, speaking on UN Radio Miraya.

This week, South Sudan became the first country to commit to becoming one of five pilot countries that will adopt a new UN-backed initiative aimed at creating a free and safe environment for journalists and media workers.

"UNMISS welcomes the government's decision to increase the safety of journalists in the country and address the issue of impunity," said Special Representative of the Secretary General Hilde F. Johnson in a statement on 10 February.

UNMISS, the UN Education and Scientific Organisation (UNESCO) and the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights will work together with other UN agencies, national and international partners in supporting development of an implementation plan for the country, the statement said.

South Sudan dropped 12 places in a recent ranking and press index by Reporters without Borders, a ranking related partly to heavy handedness by security forces in dealing with journalists.

Mr. Benjamin, who also serves as government spokesperson, said his ministry had "taken it upon itself to assist in all cases where journalists get into clashes with some security agencies," although media laws were not in place yet.

In his message to commemorate World Radio Day, UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon said that radio, which the UN used to reach people worldwide, promoted democratic expression and influenced ideas.

"UN Radio sheds light on all issues on the United Nations agenda – from sustainable development ... to the protection of children ... to peacekeeping and conflict prevention," Mr. Ban said. "Let us celebrate the power of radio and work together to tune the world to the frequency of peace, development and human rights for all."

The head of UN Radio in South Sudan said radio was vital in a country like South Sudan. It was the easiest and most accessible media for the majority of residents, owing to limited access to electricity, as well as low technology and literacy levels.

"The most important thing for us is to get out as far as possible into those parts of the country where people can (listen to) their radios at work in the fields and in their tukuls (huts), and know what is happening with their government and country," said Quade Hermann, Radio Miraya chief.

World Radio Day was proclaimed in 2011 by UNESCO to improve international cooperation between broadcasters and encourage major networks and community to promote access to information and freedom of expression.