UN Chief demands justice for crimes against journalists

United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for justice to end impunity for crimes committed against journalists, emphasizing that such attacks undermine human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. On International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, Guterres stated that at least 34 journalists were killed in the previous year, with six out of every seven killings going unpunished.

He noted that across the globe, journalists continue to face grave risks while reporting the truth, particularly in conflict zones where impunity rates approach 100 per cent. Guterres denounced the violations against journalists, stating that their targeting results in victimization for all of us who rely on them for informed and engaged citizenship.

He highlighted the essential role journalists play in informing the public and holding those in power accountable, yet lamented the injustices they endure, including harassment, surveillance, legal battles, physical attacks, imprisonment, and even torture or murder for fulfilling their duties. Recognizing progress made since the UN Plan of Action on Safety of Journalists and Impunity was initiated in 2012—impunity rates have dropped from 94 per cent to 77 per cent in non-conflict countries—Guterres called for intensified efforts.

He stressed that nothing should hinder journalists' ability to carry out their crucial role in upholding human rights, democracy, and the rule of law, advocating for thorough investigations, prosecution of perpetrators, and an end to online attacks.