Today, November 2, the world marks the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, a day designated by the United Nations General Assembly to raise awareness and call for accountability in cases of violence against journalists. Established in 2013 in memory of two French journalists killed in Mali, the day underscores the urgency of protecting media workers worldwide.
This year’s theme, "Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies," highlights the particular vulnerability journalists face in conflict zones and during crises. Since the start of 2023, at least 76 journalists and media workers have been killed while carrying out their duties, with Gaza recording 46 fatalities. The ongoing conflict in Gaza has resulted in what has become the deadliest period for journalists in history, with 146 reported deaths since the hostilities began in October, according to the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ).
The UN resolution behind this day calls on all states to create safe and supportive conditions for journalists, enabling them to report freely and independently. The IFJ has particularly condemned Israel’s actions against the press, citing attacks on media workers during the ongoing Gaza conflict as a grave violation of press freedom.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized that journalists play a critical role in keeping the public informed, especially during crises, and that protecting their safety is essential to upholding democratic freedoms. The global observance serves as a reminder of the importance of justice in cases of crimes against the press, underscoring the international community’s responsibility to safeguard the lives of those who risk theirs to report the truth.
Written by: Shah Behram Iftikhar (Punjab University)
