The ICFJ Knight Trailblazer Award, which I received on November 14 in Washington, represents much more than a personal achievement; it encapsulates my enduring commitment to fostering accountability journalism across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA). This journey, supported by organizations such as CNTI, is vital to empowering journalists in the region to question their leaders with solid evidence and ensure accountability. Without this indispensable function of journalism, the dreams of justice, human rights, and democracy remain out of reach.
In the MENA region, the landscape for journalists is perilous. Many of my colleagues share harrowing stories, trapped in environments torn apart by conflict, such as Gaza and Lebanon. These journalists are not merely observers; they embody the essence of resilience and commitment. They confront overwhelming odds, striving to document human suffering, the realities of war, and criminal activities, all while risking their lives for the pursuit of truth.
Take, for example, Mohammed Abu Shahmeh, a journalist in Gaza City living under the remnants of his destroyed house. After losing nearly 40 family members, he finds himself trapped in a nightmarish routine, scavenging for food and water for those still alive. With a heavy heart, he expresses his reality: “We bury nine corpses in one go and immediately leave to find water and food. For us, this has become a normality.” Stories like his reflect the profound challenges faced by journalists in the region, who often become the very narrative they report.
It’s important to recognize that the struggle for a free press is compounded by systemic issues. In regions where political stability is prioritized, injustices often go unnoticed. Take Tunisia, once seen as a beacon of hope during the Arab Spring. The troubling shift towards dictatorship under the guise of democracy serves as a stark reminder: democratic frameworks can be misused to consolidate power under authoritarian leadership, ultimately stifling press freedom. Unfortunately, this pattern is mirrored in Egypt, where financial incentives from foreign governments have compromised the integrity of journalism, reducing its capacity to challenge power and seek transparency.
The circumstances journalists face in MENA are not merely a challenge; they are inherently dangerous. Many have lost their lives, been imprisoned, or harshly ostracized for their commitment to truth-telling. My own experiences reflect the perilous nature of independent journalism; being dismissed from top positions, including the editorship of the Jordan Times and as founder of Al-Ghad, illustrates a systemic pushback against dissenting voices. My refusal to conform to state-sanctioned narratives and my loyalty to press freedom have been consistently tested.
One critical question remains: why does the West often overlook these injustices? While the pursuit of stability within the region remains a cornerstone of foreign policy, it often comes at the expense of overlooking or even enabling human rights abuses. The silence surrounding coups, authoritarianism, and systematic oppression reflects a deeper paradox where geopolitical interests overshadow ethical responsibilities.
In recognizing the bravery of MENA journalists, I would be remiss not to acknowledge those who work tirelessly in the face of adversity. Journalist Fatha Rahman has made his way to safety in the UK after enduring death threats from warlords determined to muzzled dissent. Meanwhile, Iraqi journalist Assad Zelzali continues to grapple with the trauma of violence inflicted upon him for his journalistic efforts. Yemeni journalist Asil Sariah is caught in a similar plight, having fled civil war in search of safety and freedom in Sweden.
The commitment of these journalists signifies hope amid despair. This award, which I humbly accepted, serves as a tribute to their efforts. It is dedicated to the brave individuals who, alongside me, fought tirelessly for accountability through our work with the Arab Reporters for Investigative Journalism (ARIJ) and currently at the Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project (OCCRP). Recognizing their courage is crucial; they embody the spirit of integrity and resilience that the region desperately needs.
To truly honor these journalists, we must demand that the global community recognizes their sacrifices. They are beacons of accountability and truth; their stories must not remain in the shadows. By championing their fight for press freedom, we pave the way for a more just society where leaders are held accountable, and human rights are safeguarded.
As we move forward, the lessons learned from the struggles of journalists in MENA are both urgent and relevant. The preservation of press freedom is not just a regional issue; it resonates globally. Accountability journalism is essential to promote democracy and protect the voice of the oppressed.
Together, we can amplify these voices and hold the powerful accountable for their actions, ensuring that justice and human rights are at the forefront of our collective vision.
Rana Sabbagh is the Senior MENA Investigations Editor at The Organized Crime and Corruption Reporting Project.
