Document Type

Article

Publication Date

Fall 11-7-2024

Publication Title

Media Watch

Volume

16

Issue

1

First Page

38

Last Page

56

DOI

https://doi.org/10.1177/09760911241292

Publisher

Sage Publication

Keywords

Exiled journalists, censorship, Africa, innovative motivation, journalistic integrity

Abstract

This study examines the motivations, resilience and innovative contributions of

exiled journalists from sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on those from the Democratic

Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Somalia, Uganda and Zimbabwe.

It categorises these journalists into voluntary exiles, who leave due to a commitment

to journalistic integrity and dissatisfaction with censorship and corruption,

and involuntary exiles, who flee threats, violence or imprisonment linked to their

investigative work. Through in-depth interviews with 32 exiled journalists, the study

explores their adaptation strategies in host countries, their persistent motivations

despite significant challenges and their use of new communication technologies and

online platforms to bypass censorship. The findings underscore the essential role

of exiled journalists in upholding press freedom and ethical reporting, emphasising

their resilience and dedication despite considerable risks and sacrifices. These

insights highlight the need for robust support systems, including increased funding,

legal assistance and technological resources, to empower exiled journalists and

ensure their continued contributions to global journalism.

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