Freetown, Sierra Leone — The Worlds of Journalism Study (WJS) launches its second wave of research on Sierra Leone Journalism in Freetown. The WJS, is a comprehensive international effort to analyze the roles, values, and conditions of journalism globally. The research is set to understanding the unique landscape of journalism in Sierra Leone. More than 20 field researchers were sent out to conduct surveys of 350 journalists nationwide.

The WJS project in Sierra Leone aims to provide a detailed examination of the professional practices, ethical standards, and working conditions of journalists in the country. By doing so, it hopes to contribute to the global understanding of journalism while highlighting the specific dynamics at play within Sierra Leone’s media environment. This the second wave in which Sierra Leone joins the more than 100 countries being surveyed.

Dr. Sarah Bomkapre Koroma, the lead researcher for the WJS Sierra Leone study, outlined the objectives and methodologies of the research.

“Our goal is to gather data that accurately reflects the experiences of journalists here. This includes surveys, interviews, and field observations that will collectively paint a picture of the journalistic profession in Sierra Leone,” She explained.

The research is expected to cover various facets of journalism, such as press freedom, the economic pressures facing media organizations, the impact of digital technologies, and the societal roles of journalists. The findings from this study will not only provide insights for local stakeholders but will also contribute to the global discourse on journalism, helping to shape policies and practices worldwide.

For more information about the WJS and its activities in Sierra Leone, visit their official website or contact the local research team at [email protected].