UN raises alarm as 85% of attacks on journalists go unpunished
The United Nations has expressed concern that most crimes committed against journalists are never properly investigated or punished.
According to the UN, about 85 percent of attacks on journalists around the world end without justice, creating what it described as a serious culture of impunity.
The UN Secretary-General, António Guterres, made the remarks in a message to mark World Press Freedom Day, observed every year on May 3. The day is set aside to promote press freedom and protect journalists globally.
Guterres said press freedom is a key part of democracy because journalists help the public stay informed and hold leaders accountable.
He referenced the 1991 Windhoek Declaration, which helped strengthen global support for free and independent media and led the UN to officially recognise World Press Freedom Day.
However, he warned that press freedom is now facing serious challenges. These include financial pressure on media houses, the rise of new technologies, and the spread of false or manipulated information.
He explained that when people no longer have access to reliable news, trust in society begins to break down. He also said that when public discussions are influenced by false information, it weakens unity among citizens.
Guterres stressed that without free journalism, society cannot achieve human rights, sustainable development, or lasting peace.
He called for stronger protection for journalists, saying they often face danger while doing their work, especially in conflict areas.
According to him, journalists are frequently among the first victims in war zones, as they risk their lives to report the truth. He added that in many cases, they are also targeted outside of war situations when those in power do not want to be questioned.
The UN chief further noted that media workers around the world face threats such as censorship, spying, legal pressure, harassment, and even killings.
He said there has been a worrying increase in the number of journalists killed in recent years, especially in areas affected by conflict, where they are often deliberately targeted.
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