This was the highest number of jailed journalists recorded since 1990, according to the report which lists the name of each journalist and the circumstances surrounding their arrest. Of the total jailed, 53 were freelance media professionals.
Safrea is shocked and saddened by the large number of journalists being detained. “The only way to expunge this dangerous trend towards media professionals is by continuing to talk about it,” says Safrea Chair Laura Rawden. “We are proud to support the CPJ and their tireless efforts to expose these truths.”
Of the 32 countries listed by the CPJ report, Turkey was found leading with 81 journalists imprisoned. Ten African countries were also listed by CPJ. Safrea acknowledges these journalists, and joins the CPJ in calling for journalists not to be imprisoned for doing their jobs.
About CPJ: CPJ is an independent, non-profit organisation that promotes press freedom worldwide. It defends the right of journalists to report the news without fear of reprisal.
View the CPJ 2016 prison census online here: https://cpj.org/imprisoned/2016.php.
About Safrea: Safrea is the Southern African Freelancers' Association. It advocates for and support freelance workers in the communications fields. It also provides resources, tools, training and networking to strengthen freelance careers.
For more information or interviews please contact: az.oc.aerfas@rp.
