The Pan African Network for Artistic Freedom (PANAF) and Team Gom sa Bopa have unveiled a new report, titled, An Assessment of Artistic Freedom: The Gambia, which provides a comprehensive analysis of the legal and institutional frameworks pertaining to artistic freedoms within the Gambian context. This report sheds light on the current state of artistic freedoms and aims to offer valuable insights to protect and promote artistic rights in The Gambia.
The primary objective of this study was to thoroughly analyse the existing legal provisions and frameworks at both regional and national levels, with a focus on safeguarding the rights of artists and their audiences. By identifying gaps and challenges within the current system, the project sought to formulate recommendations for legal reforms and improvements in collaboration with relevant national institutions and key stakeholders.
To achieve this objective, the consultants employed a combination of socio-legal methodologies, including case studies, qualitative semi-structured interviews, and Focus Group Discussions. These engagements involved a diverse range of key informants, such as Civil Society Actors, Government Officials, and legal experts, among others. The insights gathered from these sources provided invaluable perspectives on the issues surrounding cultural and artistic freedom in The Gambia.
The assessment report is divided into three comprehensive parts. The first part delves into the international context, examining the relevant international and regional instruments that bear on cultural and artistic freedoms and their impact on The Gambia. This section also highlights observations and constraints encountered during the implementation of these instruments.
The second part of the report focuses on the national context, offering an in-depth analysis of the legal, regulatory, and institutional frameworks concerning culture and artistic freedom. It explores the measures adopted to preserve cultural heritage and artistic freedom, while identifying key gaps and constraints that impede the effective implementation of laws and policies.
The final part of the report consolidates the key findings and gap analysis derived from the study. It concludes by presenting vital recommendations for the management and protection of artistic rights and culture. Notable recommendations include the strengthening and empowerment of the legal system, the provision of adequate remedies for victims of artistic freedom violations, and the imperative of heightened awareness and partnership between the government and private sector.
The outcomes of this study hold immense significance in fostering an environment that supports artistic freedom in The Gambia. The collaborative efforts between PANAF and Team Gom sa Bopa mark a crucial milestone in protecting the rights of artists and their audiences, leading to a flourishing future for the cultural and creative industries within the country.
The PANAF project is being implemented with the support of the Swedish Arts Council.
The full report is available here:
