UNESCO: Over 1,700 Journalists Killed Globally; Impunity Remains Rampant

A report by the UN Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) reveals alarming statistics about the dangers faced by journalists, with over 1,700 killed globally between 2006 and 2024. In around 85% of these cases, justice has not been served. This report coincides with the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, observed annually on November 2, and highlights the urgent need for international action to protect press freedom.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres, in his 2024 message for the occasion, voiced deep concern over the rising toll in Gaza, which now records the highest fatalities among journalists in any recent conflict. He urged governments to strengthen protections for journalists, thoroughly investigate attacks, and prosecute those responsible.

At the UN’s International Media Seminar on Peace in the Middle East, the focus was on Gaza, where since October 7, access to information has been severely restricted. More than 130 Palestinian journalists have been killed, news organizations destroyed, and international press access blocked, drawing attention to what many experts label as severe violations of press freedom. The event, held for over three decades, is dedicated to fostering media dialogue to aid in peaceful resolutions to conflicts.

The UNESCO report warns that impunity for attacks on journalists emboldens human rights abuses and corruption globally. To uphold the rule of law and ensure justice, UNESCO calls on governments, civil society, and media advocates worldwide to collaborate in combating impunity and preserving the safety of journalists everywhere.