The Ghana Journalists Association (GJA) has marked World Press Freedom Day 2026 with a call for continued protection of media freedom, while celebrating Ghana’s improved performance in global press freedom rankings.
This year’s commemoration, observed on May 3, is themed “Shaping a Future at Peace” and highlights the role of free expression in building stable, inclusive and resilient information societies.
GJA Commends Media Stakeholders
The Association expressed appreciation to journalists, editors, media owners, regulators, civil society organisations, development partners and citizens for their contribution to sustaining press freedom in Ghana.
According to the GJA, the collective efforts of media actors, often under challenging conditions, continue to promote:
- Accountability
- Truth and ethical journalism
- National cohesion
The Association described their contribution as critical to strengthening democratic governance.
Ghana Climbs in Global Press Freedom Index
The GJA welcomed Ghana’s improved performance in the latest Reporters Without Borders (RSF) World Press Freedom Index, where the country moved:
- From 52nd to 39th globally
- To 4th position in Africa
The Association noted that the progress reflects improvements across key indicators, including media environment, safety of journalists and institutional support.
The GJA attributed the achievement to sustained advocacy, stakeholder collaboration and continuous engagement between media actors and national institutions.
Call for Deeper Reforms
While describing the progress as significant, the GJA stressed that challenges remain and must be addressed to sustain gains.
Key concerns raised include:
- Safety and protection of journalists
- Media sustainability and financial viability
- Regulatory reforms to strengthen press freedom
The Association called on government and security agencies, particularly the Ghana Police Service, to ensure:
- Prompt and transparent investigation of attacks on journalists
- Accountability for perpetrators to end impunity
It also urged a review of legal frameworks such as the Electronic Communications Act, 2008, which it argues has at times been used to intimidate journalists.
Recognition of Government and Stakeholders
The GJA commended the Government of Ghana, civil society and development partners for supporting media freedom reforms.
It also specifically acknowledged the role of John Dramani Mahama, describing his engagement and advocacy as contributing to the country’s improved press freedom standing.
Commitment to Press Freedom
GJA President Albert Kwabena Dwumfour reaffirmed the Association’s commitment to defending press freedom and promoting professional journalism.
“We will continue to speak truth to power, challenge injustice and hold duty-bearers accountable without fear or favour,” he stated.
The Association emphasized its constitutional mandate to promote a safe, ethical and vibrant media environment.
Upcoming National and International Engagements
As part of the 2026 commemoration, the GJA announced plans to host a national event later this month to honour journalists and institutions contributing to media development and democratic accountability.
Meanwhile, the GJA President is leading a delegation to Paris, France, for the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) Centenary Congress, scheduled for May 4–7, 2026.
The Congress, themed “100 years of international solidarity for strong journalism and trade unionism,” will bring together more than 300 journalists’ unions and associations globally.
Discussions are expected to focus on:
- Artificial intelligence and journalism
- Journalist safety and protection
- Gender equality in media
- Youth participation in journalism
- Surveillance and press freedom challenges
- Sustainable employment in the media sector
A Renewed Push for Media Freedom
The GJA has urged all stakeholders to remain committed to safeguarding journalists and strengthening press freedom as a foundation for peace, transparency and democratic development.
As Ghana celebrates its improved global ranking, the Association insists the focus must now shift toward consolidating gains and addressing remaining structural challenges within the media space.