By Binta Jaiteh
The International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA) on Tuesday trained officials of the Media Council and the Gambia Press Union on media monitoring of ethical violations.
Head of Country Office International IDEA Jainaba Faye, underscored the importance of the gathering stating that the capacity building forms part of two activities, which will eventually end with the development of a standard guide to govern the way GPU and the Media Council monitor ethical violations in The Gambia.
“To set this tone for this important initiative, understanding the status of media operations in The Gambia is crucial. This is why we will kick start today’s session with a presentation of a study on the political economy of the media landscape in The Gambia. The study also forms part of our EU-CODE project activities,” she explained.
According to her, monitoring ethical violations is not about stifling free speech, it is about empowering responsible speech and holding journalists and media organizations accountable. “It is about promoting quality journalism, safeguarding vulnerable groups, and raising credible public awareness.”
“The media houses must first self-regulate by creating internal mechanisms to address issues of ethics and compliance. By actively monitoring media ethics, we contribute to a culture where truth is valued, misinformation is curtailed, and the media remains a pillar of democracy rather than its adversary,” Mrs. Faye emphasized.
The European Union Deputy Head of Mission Raphaël Brigandi, said the EU is a steadfast partner in supporting press freedom and professional journalism in the context of the broader goal of strengthening democracy in The Gambia.
“Journalism is rightfully referred to as the “4th pillar of democracy”. A free and responsible media is the backbone of any democratic society. As we are all aware, journalists play a crucial role in informing the public, holding those who have public responsibilities accountable for their actions, and fostering open and constructive debates,” he pointed out.
Brigandi commended its partners for their relentless action assuring that the European Union intends to continue to support initiatives that strengthen media capacity, promote self-regulation, enhance accountability, and empower journalists with the knowledge needed to protect their rights.
The Vice President of Gambia Press Union Sheriff Saidykhan highlighted that this project aims to contribute to the consolidation of a participatory, inclusive, and human rights-based democratic transition in The Gambia.
“The Gambian media in its code of conduct (the Cherno Jallow Charter of Ethics for Journalists) outlined key ethical principles, including accuracy, fairness, and accountability, tailored to the unique cultural and political environment of The Gambia. The Charter also emphasised the “Social Responsibility” of journalists – which includes the responsibility to promote and protect public health and safety; respect the law; uphold the public’s right to fair, accurate, balanced information on issues and events of public interest; and not use their professional status for selfish motives,” VP Saidykhan remarked.
