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Melissa Chemam

Paris, France
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About Melissa
Journalist, reporter working for radio, TV, digital media and print magazines. 
Between France, the UK and Africa.
Writer and podcast producer.

Currently with RFI English.

Since 2006, I've worked with France24, AFP, BBC World Service, Deutsche Welle, Reuters, Think Africa Press, TV5, Le Figaro, RFI / RFI English, France Culture (Radio France), Vox Africa, Al Qarra, the Canadian Broadcast Corporation, etc. 
I joined the BBC World Service in 2009 to work in the Africa hub in London then became a freelance correspondent in Nairobi in 2010.  

I cover international & humanitarian news, as well as cultural events.

Travel-lover, passionate about Africa, Europe, literature, music, arts, I was born in Paris, and later lived in the Prague, Miami, London and in Africa: in Kenya and CAR, countries where I was a news correspondent.
I've also been reporting in Haiti, Uganda, Ethiopia, Somalia, Algeria, Morocco, Niger, Senegal, South Africa, Tunisia, Liberia. 
I travelled further to India, Italy, the Balkans, the Caucasus, Mexico, Austria, Germany, Spain, etc. 

I work mainly from Paris, and travel regularly Bristol, London, Marseille, and Africa.

I cover different issues: migration issues, the refugee crisis, European suburban cultures, interactions between culture and politics, Africa/Europe relations, African politics, environment, healthcare, human rights.
I'm also writing my first book and developing documentary projects, mainly in France, the UK, Central and Eastern Africa, Turkey and nearby.

I'm also the author of "Out Of The Comfort Zone", a book on the story of Massive Attack and Bristol's art and music scene, including relations with other local artists Banksy, Tricky, etc. (2019)

In 2020-21, during the Covid-19 lockdown I co-produced and co-presented a podcast: 
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I work both in French and English.

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Languages
English
Services
Audio package (Radio / Podcast) Interview (Video / Broadcast) Documentaries
+2
Skills
Finance Arts & Books Film & Theatre
+5
Portfolio

Niger military rulers order UN official out within 72 hours, as US cuts aid and France withdraws

19 Apr 2024  |  melissa-on-the-road.blogspot.com
Niger's military rulers have ordered the UN coordinator, Louise Aubin, to leave within 72 hours, accusing the UN of preventing Niger's participation in the UN General Assembly. The US has cut aid, demanding a return to democratic governance, while France is withdrawing its troops. The French ambassador has also been expelled. The US maintains a military presence in Niger but has ceased active training of Niger forces.

Melissa on the road: Cheikh Anta Diop centenary

04 Apr 2024  |  melissa-on-the-road.blogspot.com
Cheikh Anta Diop, a Senegalese scholar, played a crucial role in redefining African history by challenging colonial prejudices and establishing Africa's significant contributions to human civilization. As an Egyptologist, he provided evidence of Africa's influence on ancient Egypt and was a proponent of Pan-Africanism. His multidisciplinary work faced criticism in Europe but was influential in Africa. The Cheikh Anta Diop University of Dakar is commemorating his centenary, reflecting on his legacy and impact on African scholarship and identity.

From prisoner to president: Bassirou Diomaye Faye to become Senegal’s youngest leader

26 Mar 2024  |  yahoo.com
Bassirou Diomaye Faye, recently released from prison, is poised to become Senegal's and Africa's youngest head of state at age 44 after winning the presidential election against former prime minister Amadou Ba. Outgoing President Macky Sall will step down on April 2, with official results expected soon. Faye's victory represents a significant political shift, as he was endorsed by his mentor, opposition leader Ousmane Sonko, after a rapid campaign following their release from detention.

Senegal: From Prisoner to President - Bassirou Diomaye Faye to Become Senegal's Youngest President

26 Mar 2024  |  allafrica.com
Bassirou Diomaye Faye, recently released from prison, is set to become Senegal's and Africa's youngest head of state at age 44. His victory in the presidential election was acknowledged by his main rival, former Prime Minister Amadou Ba. Faye, a former tax inspector and member of the dissolved Pastef political party, has never held elected office. He advocates for left-wing Pan-Africanism, national sovereignty, wealth distribution, justice system reform, and renegotiation of oil and fishing contracts. He also proposes a new national currency for the Ecowas region. Faye's mentor, Ousmane Sonko, who was ineligible for office, endorsed him, and they share a vision for Senegal's future. The election marks the first time an opposition candidate has won in the first round of Senegal's presidential elections.

Stories from the Sahel

02 Dec 2023  |  melissa.substack.com
Melissa Chemam, a journalist focused on underreported regions, discusses the Sahel, a biogeographic region in Africa. She highlights the area's history, climate, and the resilience of its nomadic people. Chemam presents stories of women resisting jihadists, as depicted in Apolline Traoré's film 'Sira', and reports on various crises, including jihadist sieges in Burkina Faso and the repeal of a migration law in Niger. She also touches on EU efforts against migrant smuggling, a battle in northern Mali, and the music of Senegalese-born singer Julia Sarr. Chemam encourages readers to pay more attention to the Sahel and recommends Barry Malone's newsletter 'Proximities'.

Gaza: Destruction 'Worse Than In WWII Germany'

01 Dec 2023  |  melissa-on-the-road.blogspot.com
EU's top diplomat Josep Borrell described the situation in Gaza as catastrophic and apocalyptic, stating that the destruction is proportionally greater than what Germany experienced in World War II. This follows Israel's military response to Hamas's attacks on 7 October, which has led to a significant number of civilian casualties.

What Underground Culture Has Given Bristol

05 Oct 2023  |  bristolideas.co.uk
Bristol's underground culture, particularly its music and graffiti scenes, has played a significant role in shaping the city's identity and contributing to its reputation as a cultural hub. Key figures from the 1980s, such as Robert Del Naja and bands like Massive Attack, emerged from a DIY ethos amidst a lack of cultural infrastructure and public support. The city's colonial past and diverse immigrant populations influenced the unique Bristol Sound and street art, which gained international acclaim. Despite challenges like gentrification and funding cuts, Bristol's culture of resistance and activism continues to foster new talent and maintain its cultural strength.

Gabon: Who Is General Brice Oligui Nguema, Gabon's New Transitional Leader?

31 Aug 2023  |  allafrica.com
General Brice Oligui Nguema, a high-ranked military official and coup leader in Gabon, has been named the transitional president after serving the Bongo family for decades. Nguema, who trained in Morocco and had a sterling career, fell out of favor when Ali Bongo came to power, leading to his involvement in an attempted coup in 2009 and subsequent diplomatic postings. Rumors of tensions within the Bongo family, particularly with Bongo's wife Sylvia and son Noureddin, have been noted. Nguema justified the recent coup by citing discontent in Gabon, the president's illness, and constitutional violations.

Sudan's Army Chief Meets Egypt's Al-Sisi in Move to Reopen Peace Talks

30 Aug 2023  |  allafrica.com
Sudan's army chief, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, visited Egypt to meet President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and discuss reopening peace talks amid ongoing conflict with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) led by his former deputy Mohamed Hamdan Daglo. The conflict, which began on April 15, has resulted in thousands of deaths and millions displaced. Burhan's visit is part of broader diplomatic efforts, including US- and Saudi-brokered ceasefires and a previous crisis meeting in Egypt. Speculation suggests Burhan may next visit Saudi Arabia, which is seeking a mediation role in opposition to the UAE's support for the RSF. The United Nations reports over 4.6 million people have been displaced by the fighting.

‘We Want the Ability, Space & Time to Retell Our Own History’

21 Oct 2020  |  Byline Times
The article discusses the work of Byline Times in exposing various issues such as the Kremlin's influence on democracy, the UK government's handling of the COVID-19 pandemic, and the broader threats to democracy from populism and disinformation. It highlights the role of the newspaper in covering cultural topics and the 'culture wars'. The piece features interviews with individuals involved in Black History Month in Bristol, focusing on the city's grappling with its historical ties to slave trader Edward Colston. Michael Jenkins, a filmmaker, is creating a film about Bristol's relationship with Colston, and Aisha Thomas, an educator, discusses the impact of COVID-19 and racism on the community. The article also touches on the renaming of institutions previously named after Colston and the ongoing discussions about race and history in Bristol.

Parentlanders – welcome to your podcast

21 Aug 2019  |  BBC
The article introduces 'Parentlanders,' a podcast aimed at parents across the globe. The format of the podcast is interactive, inviting listeners to submit their questions, which will then be addressed by experts on the show. The podcast promises to help parents navigate the challenges of parenthood by providing expert advice and insights to smooth out the 'bumps in the road.'

Refugees in the UK: Safe haven or hostile environment

03 Jul 2019  |  Public Pressure | NFT Music Marketplace and Magazine
The article discusses the UK's approach to asylum seekers and refugees, highlighting the discrepancy between political rhetoric and the reality faced by those seeking refuge. It begins by mentioning the UK government's plan to resettle 5,000 refugees in a new global scheme, a move welcomed by the International Organisation for Migration. However, the article then shifts to the 'hostile environment' policy implemented by the Tory government, which has made life more difficult for refugees. Personal stories from refugees from Eritrea, Cameroon, Turkey, and the Democratic Republic of Congo illustrate the challenges they face, from integration difficulties to bureaucratic hurdles and lack of support. The article also touches on positive examples of community solidarity and integration, such as the Bristol Refugee Festival and the case of Magid Magid, a former child refugee who became a Green MEP. The article underscores the need for more supportive policies and community efforts to aid refugees in the UK.

A Concrete Rebirth Alberto Burri’s monumental land art project in Sicily finally came to completion—in the artist’s centennial year Forecast Public Art Public Art Review

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Vifs débats en Allemagne sur une nouvelle loi pour la Police

28 May 2018  |  www.dw.com
The article discusses intense debates in the regional parliament of North Rhine-Westphalia, Germany, regarding new police legislation that has sparked public protests in various cities. The law, which has already been passed in Bavaria, is criticized for introducing the concept of 'imminent danger' allowing police to act without concrete evidence of a crime, raising concerns about mass surveillance and infringement of fundamental rights. Critics argue that existing services can handle terrorism threats and that fundamental rights should not be compromised. The article also touches on France's immigration policy, highlighting the recent naturalization of a Malian man who saved a child's life, the evacuation of illegal migrant camps in Paris, and the prosecution of activists assisting migrants. Melissa Chemam provides analysis on the French government's intentions regarding immigration.

Europe: Refugees welcome?

24 Jun 2017  |  www.ips-journal.eu
The article discusses the situation of refugees in France following the closure of the Calais 'Jungle' camp in October 2016. The French government has opened welcome centres across the country, but these are already full, and refugees continue to arrive, particularly in Paris. Non-profit organizations like Emmaüs Solidarité and Médecins du Monde are involved in providing temporary accommodations and basic needs. Despite efforts, many refugees are still living on the streets in harsh conditions, facing police actions. The Mayor of Calais has banned the distribution of food to migrants, leading to legal challenges from charities. The article also touches on the broader political context in France, including the upcoming presidential elections and the stance of French President François Hollande on the EU's role in the refugee crisis.

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CBC - Day 6 special coverage: Paris attacks France is on a high security alert after a multiple shooting at the headquarters for a French satirical newspaper in Paris today. French President Hollande calls it a "terrorist attack." Twelve people are dead, including the editor and cartoonist, and 2 police officers. Freelance Reporter Melissa Chemam joined us from Paris to tell us more.

Day 6 special coverage: Paris attacks

14 Nov 2015  |  www.cbc.ca
France begins three days of mourning following the Paris attacks, with the country under a state of emergency and a strong military presence in the capital. ISIS has claimed responsibility for the attacks, marking the first time the group has targeted a European capital on this scale. French President Francois Hollande has declared the attacks an act of war by the Islamic State. Experts and journalists provide insights into the events, the Islamic State's strategy, and the significance of the soft targets chosen for the attacks.

Bristol European Green Capital 2015 series part 1/3

27 Apr 2015  |  www.rfi.fr
Bristol has been named the European Green Capital for the year 2015. RFI is conducting a three-part series to explore the city's green credentials, with this article being the first installment.

Report on Nigerians in the UK: A look on the coming election by Melissa Chemam in Bristol, England, UK Listen here: https://soundcloud.com/melissa-chemam/nigerians-in-the-uk-a-look-an?in=melissa-chemam/sets/report-on-nigerians-in-tthe Nigerian community is wide and vibrant.

Les Matins - Charlie Hebdo : la France face au terrorisme ? (01/09/2015) http://www.franceculture.fr/emission-les-matins-charlie-hebdo-la-france-face-au-terrorisme-2015-01-09

Published on 16 May 2014 More than 75 percent of the Central African Republic's working population relies on agriculture, but years of conflict and instability have stifled economic growth, as well as reduced crop and livestock production. FAO has launched a major operation to distribute seeds and tools in the country, where some 1.6 million people are in urgent need of food. The pictures in this slideshow are courtesy of Melissa Chemam and the WFP.

Sudan: Interview with Dr Mariam Alsadig Almahdi Melissa Chemam from Al Qarra TV interviews the Sudanese leader and opposition member of the Umma National Party Dr Mariam Alsadig Almahdi- also an advocate for human rights, democracy and women's rights (24.11.2012)

THE CURRENT | Jan 9, 2015 | 21:41 Media split on publishing Charlie Hebdo Prophet Muhammad cartoons - Jan 9, 2015 An update from reporter Melissa Chemam on the hostage crisis in Paris. Plus, in the aftermath of Wednesday's attack, journalists are divided on whether re-publishing Charlie Hebdo cartoons of the Prophet Muhammad in solidarity is essential or offensive.

Interview with Thierry Vircoulon, researcher for the International Crisis Group (2012) DRC: Negotiations open with the M23

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The U.N. Security Council was sending a delegation in the Central African Republic (CAR). Melissa Chemam spoke to Africa Advocacy Director at Human Rights Watch, Annecke Van Wounderberg, for RFI English.

Melissa Chemam on Niger military coup (2009) on the BBC World News.

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