This is the second consecutive year that has proved fatal for journalists, during which at least 68 journalists were killed while doing their work. Of these cases of journalists and media personnel being killed, 60 Percentage of cases occurred in countries that are suffering from conflicts and wars.
This is the largest number in the last decade. UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay has said that reliable information is vital to informing the world and helping populations affected by conflicts, wars and crises. She said, “It is unacceptable that journalists are forced to sacrifice their lives for this work.” I call on all countries to take steps to ensure the safety of media workers in accordance with international law. “Worrying trend in UNESCO report It is reported that 42 journalists were killed in conflict and war zones this year, including 18 journalists and media workers killed in Palestine, where the highest number of deaths were recorded. Others such as Ukraine, Colombia, Iraq, Lebanon, Myanmar and Sudan There were also several deaths of journalists in the countries, indicating increased risks in areas of violence and instability. A similar tragic trend was seen in the year 2023 The highest number of journalists have been killed in conflicts and wars in these two years, the highest number in any comparable period since 2016-2017. One ray of hope for the safety of journalists is undoubtedly And areas of conflict remain a matter of serious concern; on the other hand, the total number of killings of journalists has declined slightly during the year. Far from conflicts and wars, There was a significant decline in deaths of journalists in the regions, where 26 journalists were killed. This is the lowest number in 16 years. This decline was particularly pronounced in Latin America and the Caribbean region, where murders of journalists fell from 43 in 2022 to 12 in 2024. This indicates some progress in efforts, especially in areas where violence against media workers previously occurred. Beyond the numbers, these figures are of great concern to UNESCO, leading These figures are obtained from international press freedom organizations, which are rigorously verified to ensure their impartiality. If the death of a journalist is not proven to be caused by or in the course of work related to journalistic work, such cases Are kept out of this category. However, dozens of cases are under review, and UNESCO continues to closely monitor developments. UNESCO’s work extends far beyond monitoring and documenting mortality. The organization also works to protect journalists and The United Nations works to protect journalists through initiatives such as the Action Plan on the Practice of Impunity for those who commit crimes against them. Emerging Threats Journalists face threats of physical, Furthermore, UNESCO is facing new challenges, including financial and legal pressures. UNESCO has recorded a 42 percent increase in attacks on journalists reporting on environmental issues between 2019 and 2024, highlighting the risks facing the media. UNESCO, continuing its efforts to promote freedom of the press and protect journalists, called on the international community to strengthen the protection for media workers. Called for strengthening. This will ensure that journalists do not have to pay the ultimate price for the search for truth.