By: Trokon Wrepue – trokon1992seokin@gmail.com
GENEVA, SWITZERLAND – Liberian journalist Wremongar Joe presented three key recommendations to UN member states during the ongoing UPR Pre-sessions in Geneva, Switzerland.
Representing the Center for Media Studies and Peacebuilding, Joe urged the international community to encourage Liberia to enact a comprehensive internet freedom law, strengthen data protection and cybersecurity legislation, establish an independent broadcast regulator, and transform the state radio into a public service broadcaster.
He also highlighted the need for more robust enforcement of the Freedom of Information Act, pointing out that public authorities frequently ignore requests and withhold important contracts from both citizens and journalists.
Joe’s third recommendation centered on press freedom, emphasizing that Liberia must end harassment and criminal prosecution of journalists.
Speaking at the UPR Pre-sessions, the media development practitioner noted that, despite some progress, Liberian journalists and citizens remain vulnerable to surveillance, intimidation, and censorship. He stressed that genuine change will require both legislative reforms and strong political will to protect democratic rights.
In addition, Mr. Joe has been engaging with representatives from UN permanent missions in Geneva, including those from Belgium, Japan, New Zealand, and Costa Rica, to discuss his recommendations.
