United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation, reported that conflict zones have become increasingly hazardous for journalists and media workers, with 68 fatalities recorded in the line of duty in 2024.
For the second consecutive year, conflict zones have proven to be increasingly perilous for journalists and media workers, with UNESCO reporting at least 68 deaths in the line of duty in 2024.
More than 60% of these fatalities occurred in countries embroiled in conflict, marking the highest percentage in over ten years, according to UNESCO’s latest data.
“Reliable information is vital in conflict situations to help affected populations and to enlighten the world,” said UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay in a statement on Thursday. “It is unacceptable that journalists pay with their lives for this work. I call on all states to step up and ensure the protection of media workers, in accordance with international law,” she added.
The report reveals that 42 journalists were killed in conflict zones in 2024, with Palestine suffering the highest toll, recording 18 deaths.
Other nations such as Ukraine, Colombia, Iraq, Lebanon, Myanmar, and Sudan also saw multiple fatalities, highlighting the dangers faced in regions marred by violence and instability.
This follows a disturbing pattern observed in 2023, where more journalists lost their lives in conflict zones over the past two years than in any similar period since 2016-2017.
Despite the continued risks in conflict areas, the overall number of journalist killings has decreased slightly this year.
A significant reduction was seen in non-conflict zones, where 26 journalists were killed, the lowest in 16 years.
Particularly notable was the decline in Latin America and the Caribbean, where the number of journalist killings dropped from 43 in 2022 to just 12 in 2024.
This suggests some progress in addressing threats to journalists in peacetime, especially in regions that have previously struggled with violence against media workers.
UNESCO’s data is meticulously verified in collaboration with international press freedom organizations to ensure impartiality.
Cases are excluded if the deaths are found not to be related to the victims’ journalistic work.
However, many cases remain under investigation, and UNESCO continues to monitor developments closely.
In addition to tracking fatalities, UNESCO works to protect journalists through initiatives such as the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.
Alongside physical threats, journalists are facing growing challenges, including financial and legal pressures.
UNESCO has noted a 42% increase in attacks on journalists covering environmental issues between 2019 and 2024, highlighting the changing nature of the risks media workers encounter.
As UNESCO continues to champion press freedom and safeguard journalists, the organization urges the global community to strengthen protections for media workers, ensuring that the pursuit of truth does not come at the ultimate cost.
