United Nations Secretary-General Antonio Guterres has called for justice for journalists facing attacks across the world, warning that crimes against media practitioners threaten press freedom and deny the public access to vital information.
In a statement marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, Guterres condemned the continued targeting of journalists because of their work, saying many continue to pay a heavy price for reporting the truth.
“Across the world, journalists continue to pay an outrageous price for telling the truth,” Guterres stated.
He warned that attacks against journalists have far-reaching consequences, noting that silencing media practitioners affects not only individual reporters but also society as a whole.
“When journalists are targeted and their reporting is extinguished, it makes victims of us all,” he said.
The UN chief further called for accountability and justice for crimes committed against journalists, emphasizing the need to end impunity and protect those who risk their lives to keep the public informed.
His remarks renew calls for governments and relevant authorities to ensure the safety of journalists, investigate attacks against media workers and bring perpetrators to justice.
The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists is observed annually on November 2 to raise awareness about violence against journalists and the need to hold those responsible accountable.
