1.0. Introduction The news media are expected to fulfil certain quintessential functions in a representative democracy1. Firstly, the media are expected to contribute to pluralistic competition by acting as a civic forum for debate. This entails the media providing extensive coverage of news about politics and government as well as providing a platform (equal and proportional) for a wide plurality of political parties, pressure groups and several other actors. Secondly, the news media are expected to promote conditions for public participation, acting as mobilising agents and in so doing encouraging political learning, interest and participation. The media, in this regard, should stimulate general interest in public affairs as well as encourage citizens to learn about public affairs and political life. The media are also expected to facilitate and encourage civic engagement with the political (and governance) process. It is, therefore, critical for the media to perform their duties professionally in a conducive environment of freedom. As such, this topical study is a collection and analysis of trends in the application of media freedom as an extension and facilitator of the freedom of expression guaranteed in Article 20 of the Zambian Constitution. The study details selected topical issues with the potential to affect media freedom whether positively or negatively. The study also highlights events, occurrences and pronouncements of importance in the period observed for advocacy, lobbying and contribution to policy formulation. The rationale of this topical study is based on the corollary between media performance of certain cardinal functions (in a given environment) and democratic governance. However, the media are affected by various trends and developments that could undermine or enhance their performance such as access to information, regulation, internet freedom, socio-political and economic factors, among others. 1 According to Norris, P. (2000). A virtuous circle: political communications in post-industrial societies. New York Cambridge Unviersity Press. 7