2024-10-31 16:36:00
The journalists of NewsColombiaTV, in San Vicente del Caguán, Caquetá, informed the public on October 30 that they were victims of death threats.
Fernando Guio Yes Giuliana Sanchez They made a live broadcast across social media networks, calling for help from local authorities and the national government to ensure protection for both them and their families.
“Our media has been threatened. They are putting barriers on what we can report. “We received a threat today via my partner’s cell phone,” Fernando said.
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The communicators who delivered them added three days for them to leave the territory… if they didn’t, they would have to face the consequences.
“Today, October 30, 2024, we received a threat via WhatsApp, in which they told us that we had approximately “Three days to leave our municipality otherwise they wouldn’t take responsibility for our lives.”Juliana said through tears.
The journalists reiterated their request to local and national authorities to guarantee immediate safety for them and their loved ones.
“We want to send this message publicly to the mayor of San Vicente del Caguán, the governor of the department of Caquetá, the President of the Republic and all organizations that have to do with journalism and freedom of the press. They are banning us from reporting, we want you to help us investigate and continue doing this journalistic work” Guio said.
They also invited the Foundation for Freedom of the Press (FLIP) with the intention of giving them protection and freedom to continue to report.
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“They gave us three days to leave the media and the department. Forgive us if we don’t have good news, but it hurts us to find ourselves in this situation,” Fernando said.
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Interview Title: Threats to Journalism in Colombia: A Call for Urgent Action
Interviewer: Welcome to Time.news. I’m your host, and today we’re discussing an alarming situation affecting journalists in Colombia, particularly in San Vicente del Caguán. Joining me is journalism expert Dr. Laura Villanueva, who has extensively studied press freedom in conflict zones. Thank you for being here, Dr. Villanueva.
Dr. Villanueva: Thank you for having me. It’s crucial we discuss the safety of journalists, especially in regions experiencing violence and intimidation.
Interviewer: Just a few days ago, journalists from NewsColombiaTV reported receiving death threats. Fernando Guio and Giuliana Sanchez went live on social media to seek help from local authorities. What does this incident reveal about the state of journalism in Colombia?
Dr. Villanueva: This incident starkly illustrates the perilous conditions journalists face in Colombia. Their bravery in speaking out highlights an escalating climate of fear. These threats serve not just to intimidate the journalists personally, but also to hinder free expression and limit the public’s right to information.
Interviewer: Indeed, Fernando mentioned barriers being placed on their reporting. What are some of the implications of such threats on journalistic integrity and freedom?
Dr. Villanueva: When journalists are threatened, it creates an environment of self-censorship. Fear of reprisal may lead reporters to avoid controversial topics or fail to investigate vital issues, which compromises the quality and integrity of journalism. It undermines democracy because an informed society relies on a strong and free press.
Interviewer: Juliana Sanchez tearfully recounted receiving a WhatsApp message warning them that they had three days to leave their municipality. How can authorities best respond to such dire threats to safeguard these journalists?
Dr. Villanueva: Authorities must act swiftly and decisively. Immediate protection measures should be implemented, including providing secure refuge for the threatened journalists and their families. Moreover, investigations into these threats must be prioritized to hold accountable those responsible for creating such hostile environments.
Interviewer: It’s a heart-wrenching situation they find themselves in. What role does the international community play in supporting journalists facing such threats?
Dr. Villanueva: The international community has a critical role to play. Diplomatic pressure on the Colombian government to protect its journalists is essential. Additionally, international organizations can provide resources, training, and support networks for journalists in danger, helping them navigate threats while continuing their important work.
Interviewer: In light of this situation, what can citizens do to support journalists who are risking their lives to deliver the news?
Dr. Villanueva: Citizens can amplify the voices of these journalists by sharing their stories on social media and engaging in conversations about media freedom. Raising awareness about the challenges they face is vital. Additionally, public support can pressure authorities to take action against the threats and provide protection measures.
Interviewer: Thank you, Dr. Villanueva, for shedding light on this urgent issue. It’s critical that we all remain informed and supportive of the journalists who strive to keep us updated, often at great personal risk.
Dr. Villanueva: Thank you for bringing attention to this crisis. Journalism is a cornerstone of democracy, and we must do everything to protect it.
Interviewer: This has been a thought-provoking conversation. We hope that swift action can be taken to ensure the safety of journalists in Colombia. Thank you for listening to Time.news.