freedom

Economic freedom. At first glance, this term may conjure images of spreadsheets, policies, and perhaps even the dusty pages of an economic textbook. Yet, peel back the layers, and you'll find that it is far more than an academic concept. Economic freedom intricately weaves its way through our lives, influencing the jobs we can secure, the quality and variety of goods available for purchase, the education our children receive, and even the very air we breathe. The Index of Economic Freedom,…

Mogadishu Tragedy: A Heartfelt Plea from a Captive Nurse, Seven Years On In a world often buffered by news of resilience and hope, the story of Sonja Nientiet stands out as an instance of endurance amid despair. Nientiet, a German nurse whose commitment to humanity took her to the war-torn streets of Mogadishu, now finds herself in a harrowing predicament. Abducted seven years ago while valiantly attending to the needs of others as part of the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), she has surfaced in a video,…

Civic space in Africa has become ground zero for a poignant tussle, drawing government entities, activists, and citizens into a conflict over essential freedoms. It's a vivid spectacle, showcasing courage and resilience on one side, and a draconian clampdown on liberties on the other. It beckons us to ask, what value do we place on our freedom of expression, and how far are we willing to go to protect it? While there are still beacons of steadfastness, countries that cling stubbornly to the ideals of…

It's a new dawn for journalism across Africa, at least according to the 2024 World Press Freedom Index published by Reporters Without Borders (RSF). These indices reveal that some African nations are making commendable strides in promoting media freedom, a cause that has historically faced numerous hurdles on the continent. Notable improvements are being made in the realms of transparency, safety, and of course, the autonomy of media professionals—a true testament to the shifting tides of African journalism.…

The Union of Chadian Journalists, alongside a coalition of international advocacy organizations, has raised grave concerns over the recent arbitrary arrests of two prominent journalists in Chad. This alarming trend appears to be part of a more extensive governmental clampdown on dissenting voices within the nation. Among the detained is Olivier Monodji, a correspondent for Radio France International. Alongside him, another journalist affiliated with State television faces similar circumstances. Reports suggest their…

Freedom in Africa: A Struggle for Expression What does it mean to be truly free? This question resonates deeply as we delve into Freedom In The World 2025, the annual report by Freedom House. Explicitly, it tells us that 21 African countries fall under the "Not Free" category. This highlights an ongoing battle against censorship, repression, and violations of human rights, painting a picture of a continent at a crossroads. Africa, the land of vibrant cultures and myriad voices, still struggles under the shadow…

At the Mandera border post, a tense yet hopeful scene plays out between Kenya and Somalia. The border symbolizes more than just a geographical demarcation; it reflects the complex ties and tumultuous past shared by these two nations. Recently, in an unexpected twist of events, Kenya dispatched a multi-agency delegation, championed by wise community elders, to Somalia. Why, one might ask? Their mission is clear yet perilous: to negotiate the safe return of five local chiefs who were abducted under mysterious and troubling…

Chiefs and Assistant Chiefs during a past function. PHOTO/PRINT In a resolute and somewhat complex maneuver, Kenya has decided to send Somali elders to their homeland to negotiate the release of four Chiefs and an Assistant Chief. These officials, entrusted with great responsibility, were tragically abducted by Al-Shabaab militants in the heart of Elwak, Mandera County. One might ask, why such a delicate approach? The truth lies in the intricacies of ensuring their safe return. Despite a joint security operation being…

It’s not every day that the streets of London echo with an honor befitting someone of extraordinary courage and compassion. Recently, Bernárd Lynch, the illustrious Irish activist and former Catholic priest, was bestowed the Freedom of the City of London, a recognition reserved for those who truly leave a mark on society. Nestled in the heart of Ennis, County Clare, Lynch’s journey is nothing short of remarkable. His prominence burgeoned amidst the tumultuous backdrop of New York City during the height of the AIDS crisis.…

Esteemed Irish HIV/AIDS advocate and former priest, Bernárd Lynch, is set to be honored with the Freedom of the City of London at a ceremony this very day. Hailing from Ennis in County Clare, Lynch made waves while serving as a Catholic priest in New York during the harrowing times of the AIDS crisis. His dedication and resilience not only made him a beacon of hope but also a critical voice for those often left unheard in society. Who could have imagined that a time riddled with despair could also birth such unwavering…