State of the media report July - Dec 2022 briefings and updates to journalists. By working together, the police and media can ensure that the public is well-informed and that law and order are maintained in a fair and transparent manner. The police are obligated to protect journalists during assignments, just as they are obligated to protect all citizens in their jurisdiction. Journalists have a right to report on events of public interest and to gather information without fear of harm or interference. In Zambia, the Constitution guarantees freedom of the press and expression, which includes the right to gather and disseminate information. The police have a duty to respect and protect this right, and to ensure that journalists can carry out their work safely and without hindrance. Furthermore, the Police Act provides for the protection of all persons, including journalists, from harm and danger. The Act requires police officers to prevent and detect crime, protect life and property, and maintain public order and safety. This includes protecting journalists from physical harm or harassment while they are carrying out their duties. However, it is important to note that journalists also have a responsibility to cooperate with the police and to follow any reasonable instructions or guidelines provided by law enforcement officers. Journalists should also exercise caution and follow safety protocols while covering events, especially those that may be potentially dangerous. By working together, the police and media can ensure that the public is well-informed and that the rights of all citizens are respected and protected. Based on the responses provided by the respondents, it was evident that the Zambia Police detained several journalists during the period of November to December. However, there was no clear indication of the exact number of journalists detained from the police records. The police did not provide information on the laws that allow them to detain journalists or request information from them. However, it was clear that journalists are treated like any other citizens, and there are no laws specifically meant for them when they get in the way of police work It was also apparent that journalists do not always identify themselves when covering volatile assignments like protests and political gatherings, which often leads to their being treated as suspects by the police. This lack of identification on the part of journalists contributes to the clashes between the media and the police. The media in Zambia faces numerous challenges, including clashes between political and state interests. The police’s treatment of journalists during the July to December period underscores the need for more dialogue between the media and the state. This report recommends that both parties work towards understanding each other’s roles better and improving their working relationship to ensure that the media can function effectively in a democratic society. To improve the working relationship between the police and the media, there is a need for more information-sharing forums. Such forums would enable both parties to understand each other’s work better and avoid clashes. The media can also improve its relationship with the police by being more visible in terms of identifying themselves and wearing press jackets in crowded areas. 21