ACCRA: The Commonwealth Human Rights Initiative (CHRI) and the Commonwealth Journalists Association (CJA) have called on Commonwealth countries to amend or repeal laws that restrict freedom of expression. This appeal comes after the adoption of the 'Commonwealth Principles on Freedom of Expression and the Role of the Media in Good Governance' during a recent summit in Apia, Samoa. According to Ghana News Agency, the CHRI and CJA emphasized the importance of these principles, urging Commonwealth governments to audit their progress and involve civil society to ensure the principles are effectively implemented. They highlighted concerns over freedom of expression being under threat in many Commonwealth nations, referencing United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) statistics and Reporters Without Borders (RSF) data, which documented 547 journalists imprisoned globally by the end of 2023. The two organizations expressed concerns about the prevalence of restrictive, colonial-era l aws in many Commonwealth countries, which they argue curtail free expression and suppress diverse voices. They cited an upcoming report indicating that 41 Commonwealth countries still criminalize defamation, while 48 retain sedition laws, and 37 have blasphemy or similar laws. William Horsley of the CJA noted the chilling effect these laws have on activists and journalists, leading to increased self-censorship and a decline in dissenting voices necessary for government accountability. The Commonwealth Principles on Freedom of Expression were developed by civil society organizations in response to a perceived decline in legal protections for journalists. CHRI and CJA are urging member states to integrate these principles into their domestic legal frameworks. Sneh Aurora, Director of CHRI, described the principles as an opportunity for Commonwealth governments to align national laws with international human rights standards, promoting democratic governance and the rule of law as outlined in the Commonwealth Ch arter. A forthcoming report by CHRI and CJA, titled 'Who Controls the Narrative? Legal Restrictions on Freedom of Expression in the Commonwealth,' will further explore the use of criminal laws to restrict freedom of expression and media freedom in the Commonwealth, offering recommendations for reform.