Journalists in Rwanda raise concerns over profession, resources and media regulation

Kigali, Rwanda, April 2, 2026 - Journalists in Rwanda have outlined key challenges affecting their ability to work effectively, during discussions held on March 31 organized by the Legal Aid Forum (LAF). The dialogue brought together media professionals to reflect on the state of journalism following Rwanda’s participation in the UN Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR), which issued 286 recommendations, including 29 related to media freedom and development. Participants highlighted several major concerns, including the rise of unqualified individuals presenting themselves as journalists, which they say is undermining professional standards in the sector. Media practitioners also cited financial constraints as a major issue, noting that limited advertising revenue and weak media markets make it difficult for institutions to properly pay journalists, leading some professionals to leave traditional media for independent platforms such as YouTube. Outdated media policies and regulatory frameworks were also raised as a barrier to adapting journalism standards to the digital age, with calls for legal reforms to better align with modern media practices. Gender-based violence and limited participation of women in media were also identified as ongoing concerns affecting inclusivity in the sector. The Legal Aid Forum said it will continue supporting efforts to strengthen journalism capacity, improve working conditions, and promote professional standards across the industry.

Faits rapportés

Kigali, Rwanda, April 2, 2026 - Journalists in Rwanda have outlined key challenges affecting their ability to work effectively, during discussions held on March 31 organized by the Legal Aid Forum (LAF). The dialogue brought together media professionals to reflect on the state of journalism following Rwanda’s participation in the UN Human Rights Council’s Universal Periodic Review (UPR), which issued 286 recommendations, including 29 related to media freedom and development. Participants highlighted several major concerns, including the rise of unqualified individuals presenting themselves as journalists, which they say is undermining professional standards in the sector. Media practitioners also cited financial constraints as a major issue, noting that limited advertising revenue and weak media markets make it difficult for institutions to properly pay journalists, leading some professionals to leave traditional media for independent platforms such as YouTube. Outdated media policies and regulatory frameworks were also raised as a barrier to adapting journalism standards to the digital age, with calls for legal reforms to better align with modern media practices. Gender-based violence and limited participation of women in media were also identified as ongoing concerns affecting inclusivity in the sector. The Legal Aid Forum said it will continue supporting efforts to strengthen journalism capacity, improve working conditions, and promote professional standards across the industry.