The Gambia

Jainaba Faye, Head of the International IDEA Gambia Office, praised the GPU for incorporating progressive provisions in the revised Charter, particularly those related to hate speech, AI, disability inclusion and fake news, which reflect the current realities. She described the initiative as a timely response that is relevant to the Gambian context.

Faye stressed that hate speech not only undermines media integrity but also threatens national unity, fuelling misinformation and creating division and instability. She urged journalists to remain committed to fair, balanced and responsible reporting, resisting inflammatory rhetoric and prioritising dialogue over division.

EU Ambassador to The Gambia, Immaculada Roca i Cortés, emphasised the importance of incorporating principles that promote respectful and inclusive reporting, particularly to amplify the voices of marginalised communities.

She highlighted the growing influence of AI in shaping the global media landscape, noting both its opportunities and ethical challenges.

‘While AI can enhance journalistic efficiency and outreach, it also raises critical questions about bias, transparency, and accountability. It is commendable that this draft Code includes guidance on the ethical use of AI, tailored to the local context, ensuring technology serves humanity, not the other way around,’ Roca said.

Sheriff Saidykhan, the Vice President of the Gambia Press Union, explained that the Cherno Jallow Charter was originally developed to enhance public trust in the media.

He stressed that the revised Charter would empower journalists to navigate restrictive provisions in the Criminal Code that continue to hinder press freedom, while also promoting higher professional standards in Gambian journalism

Saidykhan expressed gratitude to the EU and International IDEA for their continued support and partnership in this initiative and the Consolidation of Democratic Dispensation in The Gambia (CODE) Project at large.

The review was conducted through a section-by-section analysis, with participants working in groups to evaluate, present, and refine the draft provisions. Feedback gathered during the sessions was scrutinized and will be incorporated into the final document.