Senegal: Universal Periodic Review focuses on freedom of expression

Senegal: Universal Periodic Review focuses on freedom of expression - Civic Space

Rally in support of Senegalese opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, 14 March, 2023. Photo: Zohra Bensemra/Reuters

ARTICLE 19 West Africa has contributed to the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) of Senegal, focusing on the right to freedom of expression and opinion, press freedom and to freedom of association and peaceful assembly.

Since the last UPR in 2018, the government has made progress in terms of advancing the rights of freedom of opinion and expression, press freedom, and protest, supported by civil society organisations. However, Senegal’s legal framework must be strengthened to support freedom of expression. 

The review addresses the gaps and weaknesses in Senegal’s legal framework; examines notable advancements in respect for the right to freedom of opinion and expression, press freedom, and protest; and infringements and violations of the right to freedom of expression and opinion, as well as press freedom and freedom of peaceful assembly, highlighting cases where these rights have been violated.

During its last review in 2018, Senegal accepted seven recommendations covering the different themes mentioned above.

Read the review