Mauritania: ARTICLE 19 publishes report on the state of freedom of expression in Mauritania
ARTICLE 19, Global Campaign for Freedom of Expression is today publishing a report on the state of freedom of expression in Mauritania [in French] together with an ARTICLE 19 and Mauritanian Human Rights Association (AMDH) action plan for the country (in English & French).
In June 2006 and March 2007 ARTICLE 19 jointly organised two workshops with its partner AMDH. The aim of the workshops was to inform Mauritanian civil society groups on the African and international mechanisms in place for the protection on freedom of expression. These workshops were also an opportunity to research and assess the state of freedom of expression in the country.
From its activity ARTICLE 19 has published a report titled ‘Mauritanie Rapport Sur La Liberté D’Expression’, and a country action plan that identifies key areas where freedom of expression in Mauritania can be improved:
• High newspaper prices and poor distribution
• Insufficient training of journalists
• Need for training of legal practitioners on justice and freedom of expression and of the press.
• Lack of training institutes and curricula on media rights and freedom of expression and the press
Another key problem identified by the national advisory commission is the State domination of the Broadcast sector. Mauritania is the only country in the West African region without privately-owned radio or television.
The report is currently only available in French, and the action plan in English and French.
To view a copy of the report and the action plan in French please follow this link: http://www.article19.org/pdfs/publications/mauritanie-rapport-sur-foe.pdf
To view a copy of the Mauritania action plan in English please follow this link: http://www.article19.org/pdfs/publications/mauritania-action-plan-english.pdf
NOTES TO EDITORS
For more information, please contact illia@article19.org Tel: +44 (20) 7278 9292.
ARTICLE 19 is an independent human rights organisation that works globally to protect and promote the right to freedom of expression. It takes its name from Article 19 of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which guarantees free speech.