NUJ donates £10,000 to journalists' safety fund
The union has contributed to the International Federation of Journalists’ fund which provides a lifeline for journalists facing violence, persecution or needing medical treatment.
The NUJ’s donation will add to the IFJ’s fund which offers financial assistance in a range of emergency cases and helps the families of journalists who are killed, jailed or injured.
Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, said:
“The NUJ is delighted to be able to make a £10,000 contribution to this vital fund – a lifeline to so many journalists. These are the people who are putting their lives and livelihoods on the line every day to report the news in often dangerous and hostile situations.
“At our DM Week Talk-In with Jeremy Dear, deputy general secretary of the IFJ, we heard from union leaders from Palestine, India, Turkey and Namibia who all described the dangers they and their members face every day doing their jobs. Nasser Abu Bakr, president of the Palestinian Journalists Syndicate, spoke powerfully of his colleagues who have been killed and injured in recent days during the conflict with Israel.
“I would like to thank all our members and branches who have made donations and who continue to support the work of our journalist colleagues around the globe.”
Anthony Bellanger, IFJ general secretary said:
" We are very grateful to the NUJ for their generous contribution which will enable us to continue our unique model of solidarity among journalists. Our fund is a key instrument in our fight for press freedom and our assistance to journalists in need across the world. It wouldn't be possible without the support of our affiliates".