UNESCO: at least 68 journalist killings in 2024

UNESCO has reported that at least 68 journalists have been killed in 2024. The conflict zones witnessed the highest percentage of the killings, reaching 60% - marking the highest in the last decade. Palestine recorded the most fatalities, followed by Ukraine, Colombia, Iraq, Lebanon, Myanmar, and Sudan.

Although conflict zones represent an intrinsically dangerous environment for journalists, there has been some progress in addressing the threats, with the overall number of journalists killed decreasing. According to the report, the number dropped from 43 in 2022 to 12 in 2024 in Latin America and the Caribbean.

On the other hand, a concerning trend has emerged in the last 5 years: a significant increase in targeting media professionals covering environmental issues, which underscores the dynamic and evolving nature of risks within the media landscape. In addition, physical threats are not the only challenges journalists face. Several cases of financial and legal pressures have been denounced.

Beside its continuous efforts in promoting and advocating for press freedom, UNESCO urges the international community to take concrete actions to establish strong protections for journalists.