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Summary
On the International Day of Democracy 2025, we are reminded that there can be no true democracy without journalism. In an era where AI shapes governance and public opinion, there is also no genuine press freedom if female journalists are silenced, as their voices are essential to inclusive, just, and representative governance.
The International Day of Democracy 2025, themed “Ensuring effective governance of AI at all levels,” calls for reflection on how emerging technologies shape democratic processes. As artificial intelligence grows more influential in governance and information flow, journalism remains at the heart of democracy.
Observed annually on September 15, it serves as a moment to reflect on the state of democracy worldwide and confront the barriers that hinder it. It also reaffirms that there can be no democracy without journalism and no genuine press freedom unless female journalists are able to practice fully and safely.
This truth is evident in Nigeria, where the immediate past President of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Comrade Ladi Balla, was reportedly assaulted by the Managing Director of the Nigerian Railway Corporation, Mr. Kayode Opeifa. In the course of carrying out her duty as a journalist, she was intimidated, dehumanised, and publicly humiliated.
This disturbing incident reflects the challenges female journalists face, where harassment and intimidation are used as tools to silence their voices and undermine press freedom.
For women in the media, press freedom is not only about access to information; it is the power to centre women’s voices, uncover hidden realities, and ensure inclusive narratives in democratic spaces. Yet, female journalists across the globe continue to face systemic barriers and online harassment that threaten their ability to report freely. When their voices are silenced, society loses critical perspectives that are vital to strengthening democracy.
This reality is stark in Afghanistan, where the Taliban has shut down women-run radio stations such as Radio Begum and Radio Sada-e-Banowan. These platforms, once amplifying women’s education, rights, and perspectives, were silenced under restrictive policies. The closure of such spaces erases women from public discourse, leaving their stories untold and their voices unheard.
In an era where AI can amplify or distort public opinion, the importance of women journalists in telling authentic stories cannot be overstated. By safeguarding press freedom and creating space for women’s stories, democracies can counter bias, expand representation, and ensure governance reflects the realities of all citizens.
On this International Day of Democracy, we can celebrate by amplifying female journalists’ voices, supporting press freedom, and standing against harassment that seeks to silence them. By sharing their stories, advocating for safe spaces in the media, and holding leaders accountable, we strengthen democracy and ensure it remains inclusive and just.
