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The South African National Editors Forum (Sanef) has raised the alarm about threats to press freedom during the coronavirus pandemic, as well as the jobs that are being lost in the industry and the freelancers who are losing their income during closing.
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In his statement to mark World Press Freedom Day on Sunday, Sanef noted that journalists are considered designated essential workers who are willing to give people news of the pandemic, but at the same time, the industry is under strong pressure. Pressure.
“We have seen the public rise as citizens seek information on health and economic issues,” said Sanef.
“However, while journalism plays a critical role, at the same time it has also been under serious financial threat, as the blockade has led advertisers to curb spending and has made it difficult for newspapers and magazines to circulate.”
In the last weeks:
– Associated Media Publishing Executive Director Julia Raphaely announced that the company would stop listing on Friday, May 1, which meant Cosmopolitan, House and Leisure, Good Housekeeping and Women on Wheels closed.
– The Association of Independent Publishers (AIP) issued a distress call for help to around 200 print publications from the independent community across the country. Their requests include that 30% of government advertising go to community publications and that the money the Competition Commission received after fines for advertising irregularities is used to help keep independent media companies afloat.
– AIP was also concerned about the short time the Media Diversity and Development Agency gave people in the media to request emergency aid.
– Several media outlets have announced plans to reduce wages by up to 40% and / or stop commissioning the services of independent journalists.
– Caxton has reduced the printing of its community newspapers in some areas.
Community media journalists and freelancers do not have the traditional protections for paid sick leave, insurance and funds from the Unemployment Insurance Fund to help them.
A survey by the South African Freelancers Association showed that more than half of its members had lost more than 70% of their income.
Many had lost all of their work, and because it is ad hoc, they were turned down for government relief funds.
The Committee to Protect Journalists celebrated World Press Freedom Day by highlighting the plight of journalists who are in prison or who have disappeared.
He will also discuss these topics in a series of three-part webinars to honor World Press Freedom Day.
One will take place between noon and 1:00 pm on Sunday. To join, register here before 11:00.
Two follow-up seminars will be held on Monday and Tuesday, also from noon to 1:00 pm to discuss the African Declaration on Freedom of Expression and the importance of community media.
– Stay healthy and entertained during the national closure. Sign up for our Lockdown Living newsletter. Sign up and manage your newsletters in the new News24 application by clicking on the Profile tongue
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