Fully Funded Media Defense Sub Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery 2025

Deadline

The deadline to apply for the Media Defence Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery is 6 July 2025. All interested applicants must submit their materials by this date. Late applications will not be considered, so it is strongly advised that applicants prepare their documents in advance and submit them early. This deadline ensures sufficient time for selection, visa processing, and travel arrangements for successful applicants. Since the programme offers fully funded support and is highly competitive, early and thorough submissions are essential.

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About the Opportunity

The Litigation Surgery is a specialised legal workshop hosted by Media Defence, aimed at empowering lawyers across Sub-Saharan Africa who are actively engaged in defending freedom of expression, especially in the digital space. This programme supports legal professionals by enhancing their litigation capacity, deepening their understanding of digital rights law, and building a regional network of practitioners committed to media freedom and the protection of online expression.

The focus of this Litigation Surgery is strategic litigation. Participants will present real or planned cases related to freedom of expression and digital rights. Through expert guidance, group feedback, and collaborative strategy sessions, participants will refine their legal arguments, explore relevant jurisprudence, and prepare their cases for national, regional, or international courts.

Topics covered typically include:

•Criminalisation of online speech

•Internet shutdowns and state censorship

•Surveillance and data protection violations

•Harassment and intimidation of journalists

•Strategic use of constitutional and human rights law in digital rights cases

This particular Litigation Surgery is timed to coincide with FIFAfrica (Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa), allowing participants to attend one of the continent’s leading forums on digital rights and media policy. The experience offers a powerful combination of legal training, advocacy networking, and strategic collaboration.

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Benefits

The programme is fully funded, meaning that all major costs associated with participation are covered by Media Defence. This makes it accessible to lawyers across the region, regardless of financial background. Key benefits include:

•Travel expenses: Media Defence will cover round-trip transportation to and from the venue, including international flights and local travel as needed.

•Visa support: All visa-related costs will be reimbursed, and assistance with visa applications may be provided where necessary.

•Accommodation: Lodging will be arranged and paid for during the entire duration of the Litigation Surgery and any related events.

•Per diem: Participants will receive a daily allowance to cover meals and incidental expenses.

•FIFAfrica participation: Fellows will receive free access to the Forum on Internet Freedom in Africa, which brings together regional and international experts, policymakers, and digital rights advocates.

•Travel insurance: A stipend will be provided to cover travel insurance expenses.

•Caregiver support: A £50 per day stipend is available for participants who have caregiving responsibilities, such as childcare. This must be requested in advance and is subject to approval.

•Legal mentorship and follow-up: Following the Surgery, Media Defence may continue to provide legal support and guidance for selected cases. Participants also join an alumni network for future collaborations.

This comprehensive support ensures that participants can fully focus on strengthening their legal strategies and building connections, without being burdened by logistical or financial barriers.

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Eligibility

To be eligible for this Litigation Surgery, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1.Location: Applicants must be based in Sub-Saharan Africa. Lawyers from any country within the region are welcome, regardless of whether their legal system is common law, civil law, or mixed.

2.Professional status: Candidates must be qualified and practicing lawyers. This includes individuals working in law firms, NGOs, legal clinics, or as independent advocates. Judges and prosecutors are not eligible.

3.Thematic focus: Applicants must be currently involved in, or planning to bring, a legal case related to freedom of expression, particularly in a digital context. Suitable themes include:

•Legal restrictions on online journalism

•Censorship of websites or social media platforms

•Criminal defamation, sedition, or “cybercrime” laws used to silence dissent

•Internet shutdowns or access-to-information cases

•Online surveillance or privacy rights violations

•Harassment or attacks on journalists and content creators

4.Case requirement: Each applicant must present:

•An ongoing case, or

•A planned legal challenge, or

•A law or government policy they intend to challenge through litigation

This case will serve as the basis for discussion, learning, and strategic development during the Surgery.

5.Availability: Applicants must be available to attend the entire duration of the Litigation Surgery, including travel days and the FIFAfrica conference. Commitment to full participation is a core requirement.

6.Collaborative mindset: The programme values respect, inclusion, and regional solidarity. Applicants should be willing to share ideas, support peers, and contribute to a community of practice focused on defending digital rights.

Applications

Complete the  online application or send the completed applications to

training@mediadefence.org

For more details visit Media Defense Sub Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery