SOJ Africa

Uniting for Change:
Partnering for Press Freedom

In our mission to safeguard journalists and promote media freedom, we recognize the vital role of media stakeholders and partners. From advocacy groups to news organizations, we stand stronger together. Join us in amplifying voices, protecting journalists, and shaping a future where information flows freely and democracies thrive.

Platform Partners:

UNESCO - United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization

The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for promoting peace, social cohesion, and sustainable development through education, science, culture, and communication. Within its mandate, UNESCO champions press freedom, media development, and access to information as essential components of democratic governance and human rights. Through its programs, UNESCO supports the professional training of journalists, advocates for media literacy, and fosters the safety of journalists worldwide

ARTICLE 19

ARTICLE 19 is an international non-profit organization dedicated to defending freedom of expression and access to information worldwide. Named after Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees these rights, ARTICLE 19 advocates for legal and policy reforms to protect journalists, human rights defenders, and marginalized communities from censorship, repression, and online abuse. Through its research, litigation, and capacity-building initiatives, ARTICLE 19 works to create an enabling environment for free speech and independent media globally

TAEF - The African Editors Forum

The African Editors Forum (TAEF) is a continental organization representing the interests of editors and senior editorial executives in Africa. Founded in 2003, TAEF serves as a platform for dialogue, collaboration, and advocacy on issues affecting the media industry and press freedom across the continent. TAEF champions the professional development of African journalists, defends press freedom, and promotes ethical journalism practices. Through its initiatives and engagements, TAEF contributes to fostering a vibrant and independent media landscape in Africa.

BBC Media Action

BBC Media Action is the international development charity of the BBC, using media and communication to reduce poverty and promote human rights worldwide. With a focus on media development, BBC Media Action collaborates with local partners to produce and distribute content that informs, empowers, and engages communities. Through radio, television, online platforms, and mobile technologies, BBC Media Action delivers programming on health, governance, and social issues, fostering dialogue, resilience, and positive change in societies facing challenges.

AGA - African Governance Architecture

The African Governance Architecture (AGA) is a framework established by the African Union (AU) to promote and strengthen governance systems across the continent. AGA encompasses various institutions, mechanisms, and initiatives aimed at advancing democratic governance, human rights, and the rule of law in Africa. Through its components, including the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM), AGA works to enhance accountability, transparency, and participation in governance processes, thereby contributing to sustainable development and peace on the continent.

CPJ - Committee to Protect Journalists

 The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) is an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to defending press freedom and protecting journalists from censorship, harassment, and violence worldwide. Founded in 1981, CPJ conducts research, advocacy, and emergency assistance to journalists facing threats and attacks in pursuit of their work. Through its global network of correspondents and partnerships, CPJ documents press freedom violations, advocates for journalists’ rights, and calls for accountability for perpetrators of violence against the press.

APRM - African Peer Review Mechanism

The African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM) is a mutually agreed-upon instrument among African Union (AU) member states aimed at fostering governance and socioeconomic development on the continent. It operates as a voluntary self-assessment tool that encourages participating countries to adhere to democratic principles, good governance, and respect for human rights. Through peer review processes, member states engage in constructive dialogue, share best practices, and address governance challenges collectively, thereby promoting accountability and transparency in African governance

IMS - International Media Support

International Media Support (IMS) is a non-profit organization dedicated to strengthening independent media in countries affected by conflict, repression, and transition. Working in close partnership with local media organizations, IMS provides technical assistance, capacity building, and emergency support to journalists and media outlets in challenging environments. By promoting professional journalism standards, media pluralism, and freedom of expression, IMS contributes to democratic governance, peacebuilding, and social development worldwide

AFEX - African Freedom of Expression Exchange

The African Freedom of Expression Exchange (AFEX) is a continental network of organizations working to promote and defend freedom of expression and access to information in Africa. Comprising journalists, media organizations, human rights defenders, and civil society groups, AFEX advocates for legislative and policy reforms to safeguard media freedom and protect journalists from censorship, harassment, and attacks. Through its advocacy campaigns, research, and capacity-building initiatives, AFEX strives to create an enabling environment for independent media and vibrant civic discourse across the continent.

IPI - International Press Institute

The International Press Institute (IPI) is a global network of journalists, editors, and media executives committed to defending press freedom and protecting journalists’ rights worldwide. Founded in 1950, IPI advocates for the free flow of information, media pluralism, and the safety of journalists in the face of censorship, harassment, and attacks. Through its advocacy campaigns, research, and emergency assistance programs, IPI works to create a conducive environment for independent journalism and democratic governance globally.

IFJ - International Federation of Journalists

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) is the world’s largest organization of journalists, representing over 600,000 media professionals from 187 unions and associations in more than 140 countries. Founded in 1926, IFJ advocates for journalists’ rights, press freedom, and media pluralism globally. Through its campaigns, solidarity missions, and capacity-building programs

FPU - Free Press Unlimited

Free Press Unlimited is an international non-profit organization based in the Netherlands, dedicated to supporting independent media and press freedom worldwide. Founded in 1974, Free Press Unlimited provides financial assistance, capacity building, and emergency support to journalists and media organizations in areas affected by conflict, repression, and censorship. Through its programs, Free Press Unlimited advocates for media pluralism, digital rights, and the safety of journalists, working to create an enabling environment for free expression and access to information globally.