RSF Urges Mauritania to End Intimidation of Journalists and Protect Press Freedom

Reporters Without Borders (RSF) has called on Mauritanian authorities to take urgent action to stop a rising pattern of intimidation and harassment against journalists. The appeal follows a recent incident that highlights growing threats to press freedom in the country.

In January 2025, journalist Hanefi Ould Dahah was physically assaulted while broadcasting live from the capital, Nouakchott. A security officer intervened, seized his microphone, and forced him to stop reporting. RSF described the incident as a clear attempt to silence independent journalism and warned that such actions could embolden further aggression against media workers.

Mauritania’s constitution guarantees freedom of expression, and private media outlets have expanded in recent years. However, RSF notes that outdated and vaguely worded laws—often citing defamation, morality, or public order—continue to be used to suppress critical reporting. Journalists face legal uncertainty, administrative harassment, and the constant risk of prosecution when covering sensitive issues.

Mauritania signed the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (ICCPR) in 2000, but the treaty has not yet been fully ratified domestically. RSF emphasized that ratifying the ICCPR would strengthen legal protections for journalists and bring Mauritania’s press freedom standards in line with international norms.

RSF urged President Mohamed Ould Ghazouani’s government to take specific steps to improve the situation, including: issuing clear orders to security forces to respect press freedoms, launching independent investigations into incidents of harassment, reforming or repealing repressive laws, and advancing the ICCPR ratification process.

While the growth of private media has been a positive development, RSF warned that continued intimidation could erode these gains and damage Mauritania’s international reputation. The organization stressed that a free press is essential for good governance, public accountability, and democratic development.

By taking concrete measures to protect journalists and ensure legal clarity, Mauritania has an opportunity to demonstrate its commitment to press freedom and human rights. RSF urged the government to act decisively to safeguard media independence and create an environment where journalists can report without fear.