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Media Defense is now accepting applications for its 2025 Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery Program; a unique opportunity for lawyers in the region to strengthen their knowledge and skills in defending freedom of expression through strategic litigation.
This in-person litigation surgery will be held from September 22–24, 2025 in Windhoek, Namibia, and will feature expert-led sessions, practical workshops, and peer-to-peer learning. It precedes the FIFAfrica Conference, taking place from September 24–26, which selected participants will also attend.
About the Litigation Surgery
The Litigation Surgery is an intensive, collaborative seminar designed to:
* Equip participants with practical skills in national and international litigation related to freedom of expression
* Enhance engagement with international legal mechanisms and civil society
* Foster collaboration and build a professional legal network across Sub-Saharan Africa
* Strengthen participants’ ability to address emerging threats to press freedom and digital rights
* Provide a platform for feedback and strategy-sharing on real or proposed cases
Details
1. Maximum number of participants: 12
2. Location: Windhoek, Namibia
3. Dates: September 22–24, 2025 (ends morning of Sept. 24)
4. Followed by: FIFAfrica Conference (September 24–26)
Eligibility Criteria
Applicants must:
* Be qualified lawyers currently residing and working in Sub-Saharan Africa
* Have working proficiency in English
* Be in private practice or affiliated with NGOs promoting freedom of expression
* Show demonstrated interest/experience in freedom of expression, digital rights, or internet freedom
* Demonstrate knowledge of international or regional human rights law
* Submit a case study involving a freedom of expression violation currently being litigated (or a law/policy you wish to challenge)
Note:
Applicants without prior experience in free expression cases may still be considered if they have a strong background in human rights litigation and a clear commitment to working in this area.
Sample Case Topics Include:
* Criminal or civil defamation
* Violence against journalists (physical or online)
* Media restrictions (print or digital)
* Online privacy violations
* Use of spyware
Program Benefits
Successful applicants will receive:
* Round-trip travel to Namibia
* Local transportation reimbursement and stipend for visa/insurance costs
* Accommodation for the duration of the program and FIFAfrica
* Per diem for travel days and program/conference days (rate TBD)
* FIFAfrica conference pass
* Optional £50/day caregiver stipend for applicants with childcare or other family responsibilities (subject to approval)
How to Apply
Submit your application via:
Online Application Form or email your completed application to training@mediadefence.org.
Application Deadline: July 6, 2025
Shortlisted candidates will be contacted shortly after the deadline.
For More Information
Visit the Official Webpage of the Media Defense Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery Program
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