U.S. Ambassador to South Sudan, Michael J. Adler. (Photo: Courtesy).

The United States Ambassador to South Sudan is calling on the government to allow journalists to practice the profession without fear of harassment, detention, and violence.

Ambassador Michael J. Adler says the unity government needs to ensure that South Sudan’s journalists are free and secure in their work.

Speaking in Juba on Thursday, Ambassador Adler reiterated his government’s commitment to continue supporting the media in South Sudan.

“Media has the power to engage South Sudanese citizens in decisions about the future, the strong independent media will encourage the development of government institutions to respond to the need of the people and protect human rights,” Ambassador Adler said.

“Access to information and freedom of expression have the key objectives of the people of South Sudan since when before the country’s independent, challenges remain and these objectives remain as vitally important today as ever.”

“We renew our call for the transitional government to allow journalists to work without fear or harassment, detention or violence, journalists must be freed and empowered to fulfill the essential function, so this country can become strong, and stable in democracy.”

Media and advocacy organizations in South Sudan say journalism is not only challenging but can be risky for journalists when seeking the truth.

The country ranked 128th out of 180 countries in the World Press Freedom Index of 2022, with journalists facing censorship, threats, and intimidation, unlawful arrest.

In addition, journalists who undergo trauma from reporting on violence and conflicts are often unable to afford psychological support due to low wages.

However, the government insists press freedom is alive in the country, adding that journalists no longer feel threatened.