Husam Alter

Every time I look at myself in the mirror, I remember that little child who used to hold the TV remote for hours and imitate newscasters and reporters so passionately.

My Name is Husam Alter, a journalist and an activist.

From my early years, I harbored a passion for journalism, diligently pursuing my dream. Challenges were plentiful, especially in a country lacking a suitable environment for an independent journalist.

As I worked hard to forge my identity and voice as a journalist, the political conflicts and wars engulfing Libya in 2015 forced me to resign from journalism. It had turned into a tool for certain political factions, forsaking truth. I struggled with how to preserve journalism's essence in a land that spurned freedom of speech.

Yet, I refused to succumb to this reality, persistently seeking a chance to showcase my skills in the media. USAID and the American embassy in Libya recognized my perseverance, selecting me for a cultural exchange initiative, triumphing over 200 candidates.

This led to the birth of "The Voices of Media Network," defending journalists' rights and championing free speech. Libya's media landscape deteriorated steadily, with assaults on journalists due to the absence of regulatory frameworks and professional media institutions. In the 2023 World Press Freedom Rankings, Libya languished at the 143rd position.

I often ponder: Shouldn't we reject complacency, break free from political strife, unite our voices, maintain impartiality, and prevent anyone from undermining our existence or violating our rights as journalists?