The censorship in Equatorial Guinea has been a subject of scrutiny by international human rights organizations, which have repeatedly criticized the regime for stifling press freedom and limiting public discourse.
[3] The government, under president Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, has long been criticized for stifling independent journalism and limiting the flow of uncensored information to the public.
Despite occasional promises of reform, the government continues to maintain tight control over the flow of information, fostering a culture of self-censorship and fear among citizens and journalists alike.
[4] Equatoguinean dictator Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo has been a key figure in criminal activities since 1979, both during his tenure as chairman of the Supreme Military Council, and later as president, a position he has held since 1982.
The president's family holds key positions in the government and controls many of the nation's resources, creating a system where critical journalism is seen as a direct threat to the regime's survival.
These outlets function as instruments of state propaganda, broadcasting pro-government messages and avoiding critical reporting on sensitive issues such as corruption, human rights abuses, or political opposition.
[2] Under the regime of president Teodoro Obiang Nguema Mbasogo, state-run media dominate the airwaves, and coverage overwhelmingly promotes the government's policies and actions.
Reporting on the activities of the ruling Democratic Party of Equatorial Guinea (PDGE) and the president is generally positive, while opposition figures receive little to no coverage, or are portrayed negatively.
Journalists in private media face significant legal and financial hurdles, as well as the constant threat of harassment, arrest, or closure if their reporting is perceived as unfavorable to the government.
The fear of imprisonment, violence, or other forms of retaliation has created a climate where journalists refrain from covering controversial topics, such as government corruption, political opposition, or human rights violations.
[21] International news organizations, such as Radio France Internationale and BBC World Service, are broadcast in the country but are occasionally subject to censorship or signal interference, particularly during periods of political tension.
The government's reluctance to allow the free flow of international news has further isolated the population from global perspectives, limiting their access to diverse and independent sources of information.
[25] In addition to defamation laws, media-specific regulations require journalists to adhere to strict content guidelines that prohibit coverage of topics deemed harmful to national security or the public order.
While internet penetration remains relatively low compared to other African nations, with high costs and limited infrastructure contributing to its restricted use, the government has adopted measures to monitor and regulate online activity.
Users who post content deemed critical of the regime, including comments related to corruption, human rights abuses, or calls for political reform, are subject to investigation and, in some cases, arrest.
News websites and blogs that offer alternative viewpoints, particularly those managed by opposition groups or based outside of the country, are frequently blocked or inaccessible within Equatorial Guinea.
[27] In times of political unrest or during sensitive events, such as elections, the government has been known to temporarily shut down internet services or throttle bandwidth to prevent the spread of information.
These shutdowns are often justified by the government as necessary to maintain public order or national security, though critics argue that they are primarily aimed at stifling political opposition and preventing the coordination of protests.
[29] Despite the government's attempts to control online spaces, the internet has emerged as a vital tool for political activists, opposition groups, and civil society organizations to share information, mobilize supporters, and raise awareness of issues such as corruption, human rights violations, and social inequality.
[30] There is little transparency or oversight regarding how these laws are enforced, and people accused of violating cybersecurity regulations often face long detentions or trials without adequate legal representation.
Human rights organizations and global advocacy groups, such as the Electronic Frontier Foundation (EFF) have consistently ranked the country among the lowest in terms of internet freedom.
Advocacy for internet freedom in Equatorial Guinea continues, with efforts aimed at pressuring the government to adopt reforms that protect online free speech, reduce surveillance, and promote open access to information.
[32] Amnesty International has similarly denounced the government's treatment of journalists and activists, noting that arbitrary arrests, detention without trial, and other forms of mistreatment are common.
The organization's reports highlight how government actions have created a climate of fear in which citizens are discouraged from openly criticizing the authorities or engaging in political discourse.
These reviews have consistently highlighted the need for the government to make substantial reforms to protect basic freedoms and ensure that its citizens can engage in free and open political discourse.
[34] International advocacy groups have called on donor countries and organizations to place greater pressure on the government to respect human rights as a condition for aid and investment.