Let's Talk About Press Freedom
4
Modules
12
Lessons
Intermediate
Skill Level
40 min
Duration
English
Language
Overview
Hey there! Welcome to a course that is going to change how you see journalists, the media, and your own role in protecting the freedoms we should all enjoy.
Freedom of expression and access to accurate information are not just nice-to-haves – they are the pillars that keep accountability and social justice standing strong. Think about it: when journalists cannot do their job freely, when information gets locked away, when voices get silenced – that is when corruption thrives, injustice goes unchecked, and ordinary people lose their power to make informed decisions.
This course is going to equip you with the knowledge and tools to understand these rights within South Africa’s legal framework and global human rights standards. We are not just talking about theory – we are diving into case studies, testing your knowledge and learning through stories that matter.
You will discover how journalists are human rights defenders, defending human rights principles every day, navigating serious threats, and sometimes risking everything – their careers, their safety, even their freedom – all to uncover the truth.
By the end of this course, you will not just understand these concepts – you will be empowered to advocate for the protection of journalists and other human rights defenders in their fight for transparency and human rights.
Learning Objectives
By the time you finish this course, you will be able to:
- Understand how journalists act as human rights defenders by upholding freedom of expression, exposing injustice and promoting transparency and accountability in society.
- Explain key provisions of international human rights law and South African legislation (including our Constitution and the Public Access to Information Act – or PAIA) – that protect freedom of expression and access to information.
- Analyse case studies showing threats to journalists in South Africa and Strategic Lawsuit Against Public Participation – or SLAPP – suits
- Recognise and identify common threats to freedom of expression that happen around you every day.
- Articulate to your friends, family, and community why journalists are important – especially in our age of misinformation and disinformation.
- Show commitment to advocacy related to the protection of journalists by supporting and engaging with local press, activism and civil society networks (like the South African National Editors’ Forum – or SANEF – and Right2Know).
Certification
Achieve a score of 60% or higher to receive your Certificate of Completion. If your score is below 60%, you’re welcome to retake the course to improve your result.
Let's get started
