South Africa’s Media Policy Risks Silencing Dissent

Proposed Regulations Could Threaten Journalists and Activists With Vague Rules and State Oversight

South Africa’s Draft White Paper on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services and Online Safety has raised alarms among journalists and activists over potential censorship.

The policy, aimed at modernizing media regulation, introduces an ombudsman and content moderation rules to address online harms.

However, vague definitions of “misinformation” and “harmful content” could be weaponized to silence dissent, experts warn.

The proposed licensing and registration for online platforms may burden small media outlets and activists, while relaxed ownership rules risk media consolidation, marginalizing independent voices.

Critics, including the Press Council, fear state influence over regulatory bodies like ICASA could target investigative journalists exposing corruption.

With a 24-month implementation plan lacking clear free speech safeguards, stakeholders urge robust protections to prevent the policy from stifling South Africa’s vibrant media landscape.

???? South Africa's Media Laws Are Being Rewritten – Here's What You Need to Know

The Department of Communications has released a new Draft White Paper on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services, now open for public comment until 10 August 2025.

This proposed overhaul affects TV,…

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TechCentral: South Africa begins complex job of overhauling media laws