Promoting and protecting press freedom in Zimbabwe

Reporters Without Borders e. V. (RSF) has made it one of its missions to uphold this principle and to support journalists who face repression in their home countries. RSF is an independent, non-profit non-governmental organisation. We consider their work to be incredibly valuable. That is why we at Kaltwasser Kommunikation GmbH have decided to provide them with financial support as part of our Christmas campaign.

Which specific project is being supported? 

Harare is one of Munich’s twin towns and the capital of Zimbabwe. Our donation will support the work of Reporters Without Borders there. Although freedom of the press is enshrined in Zimbabwean law, it is not a reality on the ground. Criticism of the regime is systematically suppressed, and independent journalists disappear without trace. Telephone calls and email correspondence can be monitored without a court order. Signals from foreign broadcasters are jammed, and even the possession of shortwave receivers is prohibited. Journalists working for independent newspapers are repeatedly subjected to arbitrary arrests, interrogations or assaults.

How Reporters Without Borders helps journalists on the ground

RSF documents violations of press freedom and freedom of information worldwide and raises public awareness. The aim is to help those affected in their home countries so that they can continue or resume their journalistic work. If equipment has been destroyed or confiscated, the organisation provides journalists with new equipment. In the event of a conviction or arrest, Reporters Without Borders covers legal fees and posts bail to prevent imprisonment. Following acts of abuse or attacks, the organisation enables threatened journalists to seek medical treatment. If journalistic work leads to a professional ban or dismissal, RSF compensates for the loss of earnings and supports the journalist’s family. Furthermore, Reporters Without Borders educates journalists on data protection and provides assistance in the event of cyber-attacks.

Challenges of our time

In an increasingly interconnected world, journalists face new dangers. Reporters Without Borders has responded to these challenges by establishing the Digital Security Lab (DSL). Led by Viktor Schlüter, this specialist lab offers journalists assistance with digital security issues. It offers journalists specialist training and checks devices for spyware infections. Sometimes the team manages to trace the spyware back to its source. This makes it possible to hold those responsible to account and draw attention to the injustice.

More information about Reporters Without Borders is available here.
Support Reporters Without Borders’ projects: either by signing petitions or by making a donation.

Since 1996, Munich has maintained a partnership with Harare, the capital of Zimbabwe. As we also have an office in Munich, it is a matter close to our hearts to take on social responsibility. Whether through a donation to RSF or by actively taking part in the annual “Round Table: Harare” event in Munich to foster mutual exchange.