Who we are?
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) was set up in August 2002 as an association called Somali Journalists Network (SOJON) to promote and protect freedom of the press and the interests of journalists after the former Transitional National Government of Somalia prepared and approved a repressive media law.
Governance & Administration
NUSOJ, a democratic union founded and governed by member journalists, emphasizes inclusivity and engagement in its governance. The General Assembly, held every three years, determines policies and priorities with delegates from six branches proportionate to their membership. A Supreme Council shapes policies between assemblies, while an Executive Committee manages daily administration. The National Secretariat implements programs developed by elected members. NUSOJ celebrates diversity and staunchly opposes discrimination based on gender, tribe/clan, age, or disability, fostering unity and strength for media freedom.
What we want?
Protect and Promote Freedom of the Press
Ensuring media freedom, access to information, and the inalienable principles of freedom of expression are protected and promoted.
Improve Working Conditions and Safety of Journalists
Advocating for better working conditions and prioritizing the safety and security of journalists in the media industry.
Defend and Promote Ethical Standards in Journalism
Upholding high professional standards among journalists, defending and promoting ethical and quality journalism practices.
Promote Gender Equity and Equality
Eliminating patriarchy and gender-based violence in favor of gender equity and equality within the media industry and society.
Highlight Journalism's Role in Societal Development
Increasing awareness and appreciation of the role and impact of quality journalism as a catalyst for positive societal change.
Lobby Nationally and Internationally for Journalists' Rights
Representing diverse journalists' interests, lobbying both nationally and internationally for the rights and protections of Somali journalists.
Affiliation
The National Union of Somali Journalists is a founding member of the Federation of African Journalists (FAJ). Internationally, NUSOJ is a full affiliate of the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ). It is the Somali partner organisation of Reporters without Borders (RSF). Nationally, NUSOJ is a member of Federation of Somali Trade Unions (FESTU).
Awards
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) has won prestigious international awards in recognition of its tenacious fight to defend the international principle of press freedom in Somalia.
2005.
The Paris-based international media freedom watchdog Reporters Without Borders (RWB) awarded NUSOJ the Fondation de France International Press Freedom Defender prize in 2005.
The U.S. National Association of Black Journalists (NABJ) honored the National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) in August 2007 with its Coveted Annual Percy Qoboza Foreign Journalist Award for defending press freedom.
2007.
2008.
The National Union of Somali Journalists (NUSOJ) received in April 2008 the Democracy Courage Award on behalf of Somali journalists from the World Movement for Democracy (WMD).
NUSOJ received the French Republic's liberty, equality, fraternity human rights prize awarded by the Commission nationale consultative des droits de l'homme in France on 10 December 2009.
2009.
According to the statement released by the French Government through its embassy in Nairobi, the Commission nationale consultative des droits de l’homme (CNCDH) awarded the NUSOJ the prize, “a special distinction, in recognition of the work the union has been doing in encouraging freedom of speech, and defending and enhancing media freedom and human rights in Somalia”.