Guterres highlighted the staggering statistic that an estimated 9 out of 10 journalist murders remain unresolved, perpetuating what he described as a "cycle of fear and silence."
In a powerful message as the world commemorates the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on governments worldwide to take decisive action to protect journalists and ensure that crimes against them do not go unpunished.
Guterres highlighted the staggering statistic that an estimated 9 out of 10 journalist murders remain unresolved, perpetuating what he described as a "cycle of fear and silence."
"Impunity breeds further violence. This must change," Guterres stated in a social media post, urging governments to "take urgent steps to protect journalists, investigate crimes against them, and prosecute perpetrators - everywhere."
The United Nations, through its official channels, underscored the frequency of these attacks, noting that "every 4 days, a journalist is killed."
According to the latest report from UNESCO, this pattern of unresolved murders has led to a climate of intimidation that undermines press freedom and discourages journalists from reporting on critical issues.
The UNESCO report, referenced in the UN's post, provides detailed insights into the risks journalists face and the challenges to ensuring their safety globally.
It highlights that most of these murders are committed with impunity, deterring journalists from fulfilling their role as watchdogs for society.
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In marking International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, the UN and its agencies are amplifying calls for greater accountability and concrete protections for journalists.
The issue of impunity remains a significant barrier to press freedom, as failure to prosecute those responsible emboldens future perpetrators.
The Secretary-General's message comes at a time of heightened awareness of the importance of press freedom, as threats to journalists continue to rise worldwide.
The UN's call serves as a reminder of the role of free and independent journalism in fostering democracy and holding power to account.
As the world observes this day, the UN and UNESCO are urging states to reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding the rights and safety of journalists to ensure that crimes against them do not go unanswered.
