A propos de presse et démocratie en Afrique subsaharienne
About the press and democracy in sub-Saharian Africa

Summary/Abstract: This essay by Jean-Martin Tchaptchet on “Press and Democracy in sub-Saharan Africa” is based on the observation of the situation of written press and democracy in African countries at the end of XXth century. Because this situation is largely due to the legacy left by former colonizers, J.M. Tchaptchet recalls the history of democracy in three former colonial powers. He shows its consequences not only on the freedom of the press in Western countries, but also on the current situation in Africa. Through a detailed analysis of the various obstacles to democracy and consequently to the freedom of press, he highlights the role of the press in the democratic process. He stresses the fact that both are absolutely interdependent. He concludes that without democracy there is no freedom of press, and without freedom of press, there is no real democracy.

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