Tabloid Journalism and Press Freedom in Africa

Abstract

The understanding of press freedom and tabloid journalism practice in Africa has received very limited attention in many scholarly debates. Brian looks at how tabloid journalists negotiate this freedom and the impact of laws on their sensation genre. He analyses the practice of tabloid journalism stressing that even though there are no particular laws that target tabloid journalists in Africa because of their practice and genre, there is evidence in his book to show that these journalists are more vulnerable than any other form of journalism. Brian explores English-, French-,ortuguese- and Arabic-speaking African countries and concludes that tabloid journalism practice experiences more challenges than any other form of journalism in Africa. He argues that the major problem is due to the sensational nature of reporting which attracts more attention than any form of journalism and which forces authorities to react aggressively. Brian in the conclusion of the textbook notes that there is need for media law reform, more regulatory bodies to be formed around the continent, the need for good journalism practice training able to improve the professional practice and more access to information laws that are able to compel the government leaders to release information upon request, with legal repercussion for failure to do so. Brian offers emerging patterns as well challenges and successes across the continent.