UN Calls for Improved Safety Measures for Journalists Reporting on Environmental Issues

UN Demands Better Protection for Journalists Covering Environmental Issues

In a recent statement marking World Press Freedom Day, UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres emphasized the increasing dangers faced by journalists covering environmental issues. Guterres highlighted the vital role journalists play in educating the public about the current environmental and climate emergency threatening future generations.

According to recent reports from UNESCO, journalists, especially those covering environmental issues, are facing violent attacks and even death simply for doing their job. The report revealed that journalists reporting on environmental issues have experienced approximately 750 attacks in the past 15 years.

Guilherme Canela, UNESCO’s chief of freedom of expression and safety of journalists, stated that 70% of journalists covering environmental stories have faced some form of violence, with 25% dealing with legal attacks. Shockingly, over the past 50 years, 44 journalists covering environmental stories have been killed.

Canela emphasized the importance of protecting journalists covering environmental issues, as they play a crucial role in raising awareness and holding powerful actors accountable for environmental challenges. He stressed that journalists provide essential information for civilian populations affected by conflicts and are vital observers in conflict zones.

As the world commemorates World Press Freedom Day, UNESCO reaffirms its commitment to defending press freedom and the importance of journalism in the face of the global environmental crisis. The organization calls for better protection for journalists reporting on environmental issues to ensure they can continue their crucial work without fear of violence or reprisal.