Call for Applications: Media Defence Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery

Media Defence is calling for applications from lawyers located in sub-Saharan Africa to take part in an upcoming Media Defence Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery. This seminar will focus on the rights to freedom of expression, allowing participants to learn from experts and engage in practical sessions where they can present and discuss their ongoing cases with peers and specialists. The litigation surgery will address essential legal frameworks, strategic litigation techniques, and practical strategies for case development concerning various aspects of freedom of expression.

The Media Defence Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery aims to:

– Equip participants with the necessary skills and knowledge to litigate using both national and international laws, as well as relevant international mechanisms pertaining to freedom of expression.
– Foster a network dedicated to press freedom and facilitate engagement with international legal mechanisms and global civil society initiatives.
– Assist in developing collaborative relationships among lawyers handling such cases in the region.
– Enhance participants’ ability to respond to emerging threats against freedom of expression.
– Provide a platform for sharing practical litigation strategies and receiving peer feedback.

This litigation surgery is scheduled to occur in person from September 22nd to 24th, 2025, in Windhoek, Namibia, concluding on the morning of September 24th. It will include expert-led sessions, discussions based on case studies, and activities focused on peer learning. A maximum of 12 participants will be selected.

Additionally, the surgery is planned to take place prior to the FIFAfrica Conference, which will be held from September 24th to 26th, 2025, and participants will also have the chance to attend this conference.

For those who are successfully selected, Media Defence will offer:

Round-trip travel from your home country to Namibia.
Coverage for travel expenses to and from the airport in both your home country and Namibia, in addition to a stipend for any visa or travel insurance expenses.
Accommodation throughout the litigation surgery and FIFAfrica event.
A daily allowance, the specific amount to be determined, for travel days and the duration of the litigation surgery and conference.
Tickets for participation in the FIFAfrica conference.
Participants who have substantial caregiving responsibilities outside of their professional duties, such as childcare, elder care, or caring for family members with disabilities, may apply for a £50/day stipend to assist with related expenses (subject to application and approval).

Eligibility Criteria – Media Defence Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Be qualified lawyers currently practicing and residing in Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Exhibit a working proficiency in the English language.
• Be engaged in private practice or associated with NGOs that advocate for the right to freedom of expression in the region through legal action.
• Show an interest in or possess knowledge of freedom of expression, digital rights, internet freedom, or related fields.
• Demonstrate an interest in and/or knowledge of international and regional human rights law.
• Provide a case study as part of the application, which involves a violation of the right to freedom of expression that you are currently litigating or plan to litigate. Applicants who do not have a pending case may alternatively identify a pertinent law, practice, or policy they wish to contest in court, but must show both the capability and willingness to pursue the case after the litigation surgery.
• Exceptionally strong applications from lawyers lacking prior experience in freedom of expression cases, yet possessing a background in litigating other human rights matters and a proven commitment to working in this domain, will also be taken into account.
• The following non-exhaustive list of case topics may be submitted with the application:
  Defamation (criminal or civil)
  Violence against journalists, including physical assaults and online harassment
  Restrictions on online or print media
  Online privacy issues
  Spyware concerns
  National security and its implications for freedom of expression
  Media Defence is dedicated to promoting equality, diversity, and inclusion. Geographic and other relevant factors may be considered alongside merit-based criteria to ensure a diverse and representative group.
• If you require assistance or have any accessibility needs to complete your application, please reach out to us using the contact information provided below. For general questions, please consult the FAQs section. If your inquiry is not addressed there, do not hesitate to contact us directly.

How to apply – Media Defence Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery

• Please complete the online application or send the completed application form to [email protected].
• The deadline for applications is July 6th, 2025.
• Shortlisted candidates will be contacted shortly after the deadline.
• FOR DETAILS VISIT THE PROGRAMME WEBSITE