Echoes of Exiled Journalists from Africa: Motivation, Resilience, Values and Innovation of Global Journalism

Abstract

This study examines the motivations, resilience and innovative contributions of exiled journalists from sub-Saharan Africa, focusing on those from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Ethiopia, Eritrea, Kenya, Somalia, Uganda and Zimbabwe. It categorises these journalists into voluntary exiles, who leave due to a commitment to journalistic integrity and dissatisfaction with censorship and corruption, and involuntary exiles, who flee threats, violence or imprisonment linked to their investigative work. Through in-depth interviews with 32 exiled journalists, the study explores their adaptation strategies in host countries, their persistent motivations despite significant challenges and their use of new communication technologies and online platforms to bypass censorship. The findings underscore the essential role of exiled journalists in upholding press freedom and ethical reporting, emphasising their resilience and dedication despite considerable risks and sacrifices. These insights highlight the need for robust support systems, including increased funding, legal assistance and technological resources, to empower exiled journalists and ensure their continued contributions to global journalism.