Dear Friends,

Helping journalists who are the victims of persecution, physical attacks and arbitrary arrest is essential in the current environment in West Africa. We have seen an increase in press freedom violations in recent years in the region, especially the Sahel. To address this situation and to support journalists in their day-to-day work, Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has created a network of lawyers.

Ten lawyers who are recognised in their countries – including Senegal, Niger, Togo and Benin – have already undertaken to provide legal assistance to journalists who are being persecuted because of their investigative reporting and what they have revealed. The aim is to expand this initial network to connect all of West Africa so that investigative reporters – who are particularly targeted by arbitrary legal proceedings – can work in complete freedom and without fear of reprisals.

We count on your generosity in order to undertake initiatives of this kind. Your assistance is absolutely essential if we are to be able to carry out concrete actions throughout the world to support journalists who are threatened in connection with their work. Thank you for your commitment to helping us wage this very important battle.