Human Rights Network For Journalists-Uganda

The Human Rights Network for Journalists–Uganda (HRNJ-Uganda) strongly condemns the continued attacks and harassment of journalists while carrying out their professional duties.

Journalists are constitutionally protected and play a critical role in informing the public and safeguarding democracy. Any assault, intimidation, or obstruction of journalists—especially during the coverage of political events—is a grave violation of press freedom and the right to information.
Impunity for attacks on journalists must end. Protecting journalists is not optional—it is a legal and democratic obligation.

BBS TV Cameraman Assaulted by Security Personnel During Kyagulanyi Campaign in Kapchorwa Kapchorwa — January 5, 2025; A BBS Television cameraman, Ivan Mbadi, was assaulted by security personnel operating alongside the Joint Anti-Terrorism Taskforce (JATT) during a tense confrontation on the campaign trail of opposition National Unity Platform (NUP) presidential candidate Robert Kyagu

On this International Human Rights Day, we are reminded that human rights are universal and must be upheld in every part of our lives. All spaces, digital or physical, must be grounded in safety, dignity, and equality, because everyone deserves nothing less. As our interactions increasingly span both online platforms and real-world communities, it becomes even more important to create environments where every person is protected, valued, and respected. Today, we reaffirm our commitment to building inclusive, safe, and empowering spaces for all, ensuring that human rights are not only acknowledged but truly lived and experienced by everyone.

No journalist should be attacked during elections.
Their work strengthens transparency, protects democracy, and keeps the public informed. Let’s ensure every reporter can cover the polls safely and without fear.

We stand for that journalist who risks life against all odds to gather a newsworthy story

Today, we recognize the foremost catalysts of truth—those who give their all to safeguard factual information.

As we celebrate International Journalist Day, we pay tribute to the dedicated individuals who keep us informed about the issues shaping our society, and we honor the journalists who work tirelessly to deliver stories that matter.

This day is to those who have placed themselves on the frontlines, sacrificing their safety to bring us newsworthy stories. To those who uphold the truth, to those who wake up each day to deliver news, and to those who continue to fight for what is right—your courage and commitment do not go unnoticed, and we salute you for that.

Happy International Journalist Day. Keep the truth alive!

—Jhon Seniego


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HRNJ-Uganda continues to equip journalists with essential digital security skills and knowledge — enabling them to protect their devices, data, and communications from cyber threats.

Through these trainings, journalists gain the confidence to safely operate online, protect their sources, and uphold press freedom in an increasingly digital and high-risk environment.

HRNJUganda, with support from OpenTechnology Fund, successfully concluded a four-day digital security training in Mbale aimed at strengthening the capacity of journalists to protect themselves and their work from online threats. The training brought together media practitioners from different outlets who acquired hands-on skills in identifying and mitigating phishing and malware attacks, securing communication channels and devices, practicing safe social media use, and ensuring data protection through secure backup strategies.

As the digital space becomes increasingly hostile, it is essential that journalists are well-equipped to detect, prevent, and respond to digital threats that undermine press freedom and access to information. Together, we remain committed to building a safer digital environment where journalists can work freely, confidently, and without fear.

This is more than a press freedom issue — it’s a constitutional crisis. Blocking NTV and Daily Monitor reporters contradicts Uganda’s commitment to openness, accountability, and democratic governance. Parliament must uphold media rights now. https://bit.ly/4hDO1Vlhttps://bit.ly/4hDO1Vl

HRNJ-Uganda is condemning Parliament for blocking NTV & Daily Monitor journalists from covering proceedings. This violates press freedom and public access to information. We call on Parliament to restore media access and uphold constitutional rights.

Women journalists face heightened technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) during and after elections, including online harassment, doxxing, and smear campaigns. These attacks not only silence voices but also threaten press freedom and democracy. It’s essential to create safer online spaces and ensure accountability for perpetrators. If you are a journalist facing digital threats or harassment, contact the HRNJ Digital Security Helpline for immediate support and guidance