European Parliament condemns persecution of journalists in Cameroon

In brief

On 3 April 2025, the European Parliament (EP) adopted a resolution condemning the persecution of journalists in Cameroon. The text denounces the arbitrary arrests and detentions of five journalists and calls on the Cameroonian authorities to respect press freedom.

Context

In Cameroon, several journalists are imprisoned or prosecuted for their professional activities. Among them:

• Amadou Vamoulké, journalist and activist, sentenced to 15 years in prison in 2017 for "apology of terrorism".
• Kingsley Fomunyuy Njoka, editor-in-chief, arrested in 2024 for "incitement to revolt".
• Mancho Bibixy, blogger, detained since 2023 for "dissemination of false news".
• Thomas Awah Junior, journalist, arrested in 2024 for "contempt of court".
• Tsi Conrad, blogger, sentenced to 10 years in prison in 2024 for "terrorism".

These cases illustrate a deterioration of press freedom in Cameroon, according to organisations such as Reporters Without Borders.

What the European Parliament decided

The EP adopted a resolution (2025/2627(RSP)) by a show of hands, without individual count. The text:

• Strongly condemns the persecution of journalists and violations of freedom of expression in Cameroon.
• Calls for the immediate and unconditional release of the five journalists mentioned.
• Calls on the Cameroonian authorities to guarantee a fair trial and to cease abusive prosecutions.
• Invites the European External Action Service (EEAS) to raise these cases in the dialogue with Cameroon.
• Encourages the European Commission to use all instruments, including the human rights clause of the Cotonou Agreement, to put pressure on Cameroon.

Vote result

The resolution was adopted by a show of hands, meaning that the majority of MEPs present approved it. No precise figures were published.

For citizens

This resolution is a strong political signal: the European Parliament does not tolerate attacks on press freedom, even outside the EU. It has no direct legal effect, but it can influence the EU's relations with Cameroon, particularly in terms of development aid. For citizens, it is a reminder that Europe defends democratic values and human rights worldwide.