In 2024, 104 journalists and media workers have tragically lost their lives, highlighting the ongoing dangers faced by those in the profession, especially in conflict zones like the Gaza Strip during the Israel-Hamas war.
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) reported that more than half of these fatalities occurred amid the Israel-Hamas conflict that began on October 7, 2023. Among the deceased, 55 were Palestinian media professionals. This alarming statistic underscores the risks journalists face in regions of intense conflict.
Anthony Bellanger, the General Secretary of the IFJ, described these figures as a stark reminder of the vulnerability of press freedom. He emphasized that journalism remains a perilous endeavor, especially as the need for information grows amid rising authoritarianism worldwide. “The public’s need for information is very real at a time when authoritarian regimes are developing all over the world,” Bellanger stated.
Beyond fatalities, the year also saw a sharp increase in the number of journalists imprisoned, with figures rising to 520 from 427 the previous year. China and Hong Kong were notably pointed out, with 135 journalists incarcerated.
These incidents not only draw attention to the physical dangers journalists face but also to the increasing restrictions on their freedom and the efforts to silence them. As of now, the IFJ anticipates that the number of journalists killed will continue to rise, nearing last year’s total of 129 victims.
The ongoing threats to journalists, reflected in the rising fatalities and imprisonments, highlight the urgent need for global attention to safeguard press freedom and protect those committed to reporting the truth.
Source: Apnews
