85 percent of attacks on journalists go unpunished – UN raises alarm
UN Secretary-General Appeals for Protection of Journalists on World Press Freedom Day
UNITED NATIONS — United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres expressed deep concern regarding the prevailing impunity for crimes against journalists, highlighting that approximately 85% of such cases go uninvestigated and unpunished.
Guterres made his remarks in a message commemorating World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3. The day underscores the importance of press freedom and the protection of media professionals globally. He characterized press freedom as a critical foundation of democratic societies, underscoring the media’s role as a watchdog that holds those in power accountable.
Reflecting on the 1991 Windhoek Declaration, Guterres noted that this significant document advocates for independent and pluralistic media, which led to the establishment of World Press Freedom Day. He warned that press freedom is currently facing serious threats from economic challenges, emerging technologies, and the intentional spread of misinformation.
“When access to reliable information erodes, mistrust takes root,” Guterres said. “Distorted public debate weakens social cohesion, and when journalism is undermined, crises become far more challenging to prevent and resolve.”
He emphasized that press freedom is essential for the protection of human rights, sustainable development, and peace. Guterres called for stronger protections for journalists, advocating for an environment where truth and those who report it can operate safely.
Highlighting the risks journalists face, he remarked that they are often among the first victims in conflict situations, risking their lives to document events and inform the public. “People often say that in war, truth is the first casualty,” he noted. “However, too frequently, it is the journalists who become the initial casualties, not only in wartime but wherever those in power fear scrutiny.”
Guterres pointed out a disturbing rise in the number of journalists killed in recent years, stressing that many are deliberately targeted, particularly in conflict areas.
