Media watchdog raises concern on exposure of journalists' data
Gaborone, Botswana (PANA) - The Botswana Chapter of the Media Institute of Southern Africa (MISA) has bemoaned the exposure of journalists’ personal data on social media platforms and threats to journalists in the country.
The Chapter said the advent of digital platforms and the ubiquity of social media have certainly transformed the landscape of communication.
“It is against this background that MISA Botswana has noted with profound concern an emerging trend whereby some officials and political figures are wont on unauthorised disclosure of journalists' personal data including their contact details (phone numbers) on social media platforms as a form of sanction against them," MISA Botswana chairperson, Thomas T. Nkhoma said in a statement on Wednesday.
He said MISA Botswana was concerned that the dissemination of the journalists’ personal data exposed them to targeted attacks.
“As MISA Botswana, we vehemently condemn any violations of data privacy concerning journalists and any threats against the freedom of the press," Nkhoma said .
MISA Botswana called upon all concerned, including government, civil society organisations, and political parties to make concerted efforts to address this pressing issue.
Nkhoma said the indiscriminate sharing of journalists' personal data on social media platforms violated fundamental right to privacy as enshrined in various international conventions and national legislations such as the Botswana's Constitution and Data Protection Act.
“Revealing of the journalists’ personal data on social media platforms not only violates the Data Protection Act, specifically Sections 15, 16 and 20 but more profoundly threatens their safety."
He said this created a hostile environment that impeded their ability to perform their duties without fear of reprisals.
"Therefore, it must be recognised that this pervasive threat of personal data exposure on social media platforms can deter journalists from pursuing critical stories, investigating sensitive issues, or engaging in rigorous investigative journalism,” said Nkhoma.
-0- PANA DRW/MA 20Dec2023
