By Kadiatu A. Turay

The European Union Delegation in Sierra Leone on Tuesday commemorated International Human Rights Day with civil society organisations, development partners, and media stakeholders, in an event that renewed focus on the state of human rights and civic space in the country. Held at the EU delegation office in Freetown and organised in collaboration with International IDEA Africa & West Asia and BBC Media Action Sierra Leone, this year’s celebration reflected the global themenHuman Rights, our veeryday Essential.

The gathering provided a dynamic platform for civic actors to celebrate progress, raise ongoing concerns, and reaffirm their commitment to protecting fundamental freedoms. For many participants, the event served as both a celebration and a call to action at a time when human rights and democratic values face increasing challenges globally and nationally.

In his keynote address, Ambassador Jacek Jankowski, head of the EU Delegation to Sierra Leone, reaffirmed Europe’s unwavering support for civic freedoms.

The European Union stands firmly with human rights defenders, journalists, and civil society groups who work daily to protect fundamental freedoms, Ambassador Jankowski said. “Our commitment is long-term and unshaken, civic space must remain open, safe, and vibrant for democracy to thrive.”

He emphasized the EU’s sustained support for media freedom, democratic governance, and institutions that promote transparency and accountability.

The ceremony opened with remarks from Blair Glencorse, Senior Advisor for Governance and Democracy at BBC Media Action, who underscored the essential role of independent media in advancing human rights and public accountability.

Dr. Idrissa Mamoud Tarawallie, Head of Programme at International IDEA, highlighted the urgency of collective action to protect basic freedoms.

Human rights are not abstract principles they are everyday essentials, he noted, from access to justice and information to gender equality and freedom of expression, these rights shape daily life for ordinary Sierra Leoneans.

Several partner organisations delivered insightful presentations, including Talking Drum Studio, the Sierra Leone Association of Journalists (SLAJ), the Independent Radio Network (IRN), National Elections Watch (NEW), Campaign for Human Rights International (CHRI), and the 50/50 Women’s Group. Their reflections centred on civic engagement, media development, democratic participation, and gender rights.

Human rights defenders and media practitioners used the platform to spotlight the ongoing challenges faced by vulnerable groups, particularly women and young people.

Alpha Kamara of Talking Drum Studio underscored the need for stronger mechanisms to protect communities from rights violations. While advocacy efforts have improved, he noted that “the gap between policy and practice remains significant.

A representative of the 50/50 Women’s Group expressed deep concern over persistent gender inequalities in education, health, and governance.

“Over 40% of women still lack access to education, and many girls continue to face barriers that threaten their safety, participation, and growth, she said, if we want a better Sierra Leone, we must work with women at all levels, their voices must be heard, and their protection must be guaranteed.”

SLAJ representatives reiterated the association’s commitment to gender equality within media institutions through training opportunities, mentorship, and safe spaces for women journalists.

One of the most compelling moments came from Mariama Bah, station manager of Rise Radio, who spoke passionately about the emotional and professional obstacles that women in the media sector continue to face.

She explained how self-doubt, gender stereotypes, and lack of institutional support often hinder women’s career growth, many young women in the media have the skills but not the confidence, Bah said, the struggle is not that opportunities don’t exist it’s that women are often made to feel they are not enough, her message resonated strongly with participants, especially those working directly with women and girls in grassroots communities.

As the event concluded, the EU Delegation reaffirmed its dedication to supporting civil society organisations working to protect and promote the rights of all Sierra Leoneans, partners agreed that while the country has made significant strides in strengthening democratic values and inclusion, substantial work remains to ensure that every citizen enjoys their rights without fear, discrimination, or limitation.

The commemoration ended with a collective reflection: human rights must not be honoured only once a year but upheld every day in homes, communities, and institutions across Sierra Leone.

Copyright –Published in Expo Times News on Monday, 15th December 2025 (ExpoTimes News – Expo Media Group (expomediasl.com)