2024-12-12 05:38:00
According to the annual Reporters Without Borders (RSF) report published on Thursday 12 December, 54 journalists have been killed while exercising or due to their work worldwide in 2024, including a third by the Israeli army, mainly in Gaza. According to the non-governmental organization (NGO) for the defense of the press, “The Israeli military is responsible for the death” of eighteen journalists this year: sixteen in Gaza and two in Lebanon.
“Palestine is the most perilous country for journalists, recording the highest number of deaths in five years of any country”ensures RSF in its annual reportwhose count ends on December 1st. The organization has filed four complaints with the international Criminal Court (ICC) for “war crimes committed against journalists by the Israeli army.” In total, “more than 145 journalists” have been killed by the Israeli army since October 2023 including in Gaza “at least thirty-five in the exercise of their duties”according to the NGO, which it deplores “an unprecedented massacre”.
In another tally released Tuesday, the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) reported 104 journalists killed worldwide in 2024, more than half of them in Gaza. The figures differ between IFJ and RSF due to a disagreement on the calculation method. The RSF association lists only the journalists for whom it has established “proven that they were killed as of their activity”.
550 journalists imprisoned, fifty-five held hostage
Behind the sixteen deaths in Gaza, the places where the most journalists have been killed in 2024 are Pakistan (seven), bangladesh and Mexico (five each). In 2023, the number of journalists killed worldwide stood at forty-five as of December 1 (and fifty-five according to the final toll for the entire year).
Along with the journalists killed, RSF also lists those imprisoned. As of December 1, there were 550 worldwide (compared to 513 last year). The top three countries that imprison the most are China (124 of which eleven in Hong kong), Burma (sixty-one) and Israel (forty-one).
Furthermore, fifty-five journalists are currently held hostage, two of whom were kidnapped in 2024. Almost half (twenty-five) are in the hands of the Islamic State. ninety-five journalists are missing, of which four will be new in 2024.
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What are the main challenges journalists face in conflict zones like Gaza?
Engaging Interview between Time.news Editor and Journalism Expert
Time.news Editor: Good morning, and thank you for joining us today. We’re here to discuss a grave and pressing issue in the world of journalism, highlighted notably in the recent Reporters Without Borders (RSF) report.To shed some light on this, we have Dr.Elena Rodriguez, a media analyst and expert on press freedom. Dr.rodriguez, thank you for being with us.
Dr. Elena Rodriguez: Thank you for having me. It’s a critical time for journalism, and I’m glad to discuss these troubling findings.
Editor: The RSF report states that 2024 has seen 54 journalists killed globally, with a notable number in Gaza. What does this surge in violence against journalists indicate about the current state of press freedom in conflict zones?
Dr. Rodriguez: The alarming numbers reflect not only the dangers journalists face in conflict areas but also the broader implications for free speech and accountability. Particularly in Gaza, where the RSF reports that at least 18 journalists lost their lives, there’s a chilling effect on the ability of those on the ground to report the truth. It signals that areas of turmoil become increasingly hostile to media professionals seeking to cover events impartially.
Editor: indeed. The report highlights that a third of these deaths are attributed to the israeli military. How does the international community typically respond to such alarming statistics, and do you feel this response is adequate?
Dr.Rodriguez: Historically, the international response has ranged from condemnation to calls for investigations. However, these responses can often fall short of producing real change on the ground. Accountability for such actions is crucial—without it, perpetrators may feel emboldened. the lack of thorough consequences can perpetuate a cycle of violence against journalists.
Editor: You mentioned Gaza, but the RSF report also notes that Palestine has become perilous for journalists, recording the highest fatalities in recent years. Why do you think this region has reached such a critical tipping point?
Dr. Rodriguez: Several factors contribute to this crisis. The ongoing conflict, combined with an atmosphere of impunity, creates a deadly habitat for journalists. Armed conflicts often result in escalating violence, and sadly, journalists often become collateral damage. Measures to ensure their safety and protect their rights are crucial and must be prioritized by both local authorities and the international community.
Editor: During recent events, we saw solidarity demonstrations, such as the one held at the International Book Fair in Guadalajara. How significant are these demonstrations in the fight for journalist safety and press freedom?
Dr. Rodriguez: Demonstrations like the one in Guadalajara are profoundly impactful.They raise awareness and put pressure on governments and international bodies to take action. Such solidarity not only honors those who have lost their lives but also conveys a message that the world is watching, and that there is a collective demand for the protection of journalists. It highlights the essential role of civil society in advocating for press freedom.
Editor: That leads nicely into the broader implications for journalism.As we face these challenges, what do you see as the future for journalists working in high-risk environments?
Dr. Rodriguez: The future is uncertain. however, raising awareness, combined with advocacy for stronger protections, can reshape the landscape for journalists in conflict zones. Continued education and support for journalists—as well as more robust international pressure on governments to uphold human rights—can definitely help mitigate risks. Ultimately, it’s about creating an environment where journalists can operate without the constant fear of violence.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Rodriguez, for your insightful comments. As we wrap up, what final thoughts would you like to share regarding the importance of protecting journalists worldwide?
Dr. Rodriguez: I urge everyone to recognize that when we lose journalists, we lose the essential essence of informed society. Their work is vital—not just for reporting facts, but for holding power accountable and giving voice to the voiceless. We must unite to safeguard their rights, ensuring that they can continue to do their jobs safely.
Editor: Thank you once again, Dr. Rodriguez.This conversation underscores the importance of advocating for journalists everywhere. As we face an increasingly turbulent media landscape, the need for solidarity and action has never been more vital.