# Journalist safety concerns in The Gambia

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/journalist-safety-concerns-in-the-gambia
> Updated: 2026-10-15T18:05:44.000Z. Sources: 4. Developments: 2.

In The Gambia, the Gambia Press Union (GPU) and the Gambia Police Force have entered into dialogues to enhance safety for journalists ahead of the 2026–2027 electoral cycle. These discussions, involving both police officers and media professionals, focused on media freedom and the duty of security forces to protect reporters during political activities.

GPU President Isatou Keita has advocated for stronger safeguards and accountability, noting that media practitioners face persistent threats including intimidation, physical assault, and online harassment from officials and political supporters. Keita highlighted a “culture of impunity” where many attacks remain unpunished. In response, Minister of Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Dr. Ismaila Ceesay stated that the police and media have complementary roles in sustaining democracy.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-15: Gambia Press Union and police seek journalist safety for upcoming elections

The Gambia Press Union and police are collaborating to enhance journalist safety ahead of the 2026–2027 elections, addressing concerns over harassment and impunity.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/gambia-press-union-and-police-seek-journalist-safety-for-upcoming-elections

### 2026-09-24: Nigeria faces rising journalist harassment and election reporting concerns

Nigeria faces growing challenges for press freedom, marked by rising physical attacks on journalists and calls for responsible reporting to ensure peace during the upcoming 2027 general elections.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/nigeria-faces-rising-journalist-harassment-and-election-reporting-concerns

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Cite as: Journalist safety concerns in The Gambia. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/journalist-safety-concerns-in-the-gambia