Introduction
This report, titled An Assessment of Artistic Freedom:Mozambique, assesses the practices, challenges, and opportunities surrounding the freedom of artistic expression in the country. provides a detailed analysis of the legal protection, challenges faced by artists, and strategies to safeguard their rights. The findings underscore the crucial role of the State and other stakeholders in protecting and promoting artistic freedom in the country and aims at guiding them to effectively promote and protect these rights, benefiting both the creative community and society as a whole.
Summary
This study utilised qualitative research, non-probabilistic and convenience sampling, and interviews with 71 respondents through a semi-open Google Forms survey. Additionally, seven leaders of organisations were interviewed to gather their perspectives.
The research team also conducted a thorough review of relevant documentation on freedom of expression in Mozambique. The report identifies key threats, including insufficient legal protections, a lack of support for arts and culture, censorship of critical content, political interference, limited awareness of rights, and ineffective implementation of existing measures. Furthermore, artists face censorship when criticising the government or authorities.
To address these issues and promote artistic freedom, the report provides crucial recommendations. It urges ongoing advocacy to defend artists and their rights, highlighting the necessity of passing a specific law to protect artists’ freedom of expression. The report emphasises the importance of well-trained leaders in cultural organisations and suggests capacity-building activities like workshops and conferences to enhance understanding and awareness. Additionally, the establishment of a dedicated fund or grants program for artists is proposed, ensuring clear guidelines, transparent processes, and continuous evaluations for impact tracking and improvement.
An Assessment of Artistic Freedom:Mozambique
