NUJ backs demand for a convention to enhance journalists’ safety
The International Federation of Journalists has called for a United Nations Convention on the safety and protection of journalists.
As journalists worldwide continue to face attacks, threats, and detention simply for carrying out their work, the IFJ has highlighted that despite many protocols, guidelines and proposals, nine out of ten killings of journalists still go unpunished.
To mark the International Day to End Impunity for crimes committed against journalists on 2 November, the IFJ is calling on governments, journalists and media groups to support the adoption of a UN Convention on the safety and independence of journalists and other media professionals.
Over 60 organisations including journalists' unions have already voiced support for the convention launched at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva on 3 October.
This year, at least 59 journalists have been killed with levels of violence against journalists highest at Afghanistan, DRC, Haiti, India, Mexico, Kosovo, Pakistan, Palestine, the Philippines, Russia, Turkey, Ukraine and Yemen.
Dominique Pradalie, IFJ president, said:
“There is a growing frustration about the lack of action and political will to tackle impunity and support a free and independent media. This is why we have launched a global campaign for the adoption of an International Convention dedicated to the protection of journalists and media professionals.”