The Human Rights Network for Journalists in Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda) has documented a total of 110 cases of human rights violations and abuses against journalists, media professionals, and media institutions in its 16th Press Freedom Index Report 2024.
The report was officially launched at the Imperial Royal Hotel in Kampala under the theme “One step forward, Two steps back; A slippery media landscape.”
According to the findings, blocked or denied access to information was the most prevalent violation, accounting for 52 cases, marking a significant increase compared to previous years.
Other reported incidents include 25 assaults on journalists, 11 cases of equipment damage, seven arrests, five charges brought against media personnel, three cases of intimidation and threats, two instances of footage deletion, and two thefts affecting media outlets.
HRNJ-Uganda’s Executive Director, Robert Sempala, expressed concern over the rising trend of violations, emphasizing the report’s role in advocating for enhanced journalist safety.
He highlighted the importance of identifying priority areas and emerging media safety needs to inform targeted interventions by relevant media stakeholders.
Julius Esegu, the HRNJ-Uganda Board Chairperson, noted that despite a court ruling affirming journalists’ rights, press freedom in Uganda remains fragile.
He emphasized the need for continued vigilance and legal protections to safeguard media independence and ensure journalists can operate freely.
The 2024 Press Freedom Index underscores the urgent need for concerted efforts to improve the media environment in Uganda and uphold the fundamental rights of journalists and media practitioners.
By Ben Musanje
2nd May 2025
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