International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists is a day to raise awareness of the need to protect journalists and media professionals from violence and impunity. The primary goal is to foster a safe environment for them to perform their vital work of uncovering the truth and protecting democracy. This observance reminds the world that a free press and the rule of law are essential for ensuring accountability for violence against journalists, upholding their right to freedom of expression, and the public's right to know.

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed November 2nd as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists in 2013, following a growing concern for journalist safety worldwide. This day is significant to Americans, as several US journalists have tragically fallen victim to violence while performing their duties. The observance highlights the importance of press freedom and journalist safety within American society, promoting essential values such as democracy, human rights, and the fight against corruption.

In the United States, numerous organizations, educational institutions, and media entities participate in International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists by hosting events, conferences, and panel discussions. These events often focus on raising awareness about current threats faced by US journalists, both domestically and abroad, to promote tangible actions to protect them. Additionally, the US government has increasingly emphasized the need to enhance press freedom and journalist safety around the world as part of its broader foreign policy. By encouraging public discourse and standing in solidarity with the global community, the United States strengthens its commitment to journalistic integrity and freedom of expression on November 2nd each year.

Facts about this UN Observance

• More than 1000 journalists around the world have been killed in the last decade according to the U.N.
• According to the CPJ.org, in 2023, more than 11 journalists have been killed (motive confirmed), and more than 65 journalists have been reported missing.
• According to the U.N, in the last decade, only 1 out of 10 cases committed against journalists have lead to a conviction.
• There has been an increase in violence against journalists in the U.S., particularly during protests. According to the Reporters Without Borders, attacks on journalists rose sharply in 2020, many occurring during protests related to racial justice or the elections.
• While journalists are protected under the First Amendment, assaults and other physical violence are not always prosecuted or are dismissed, leading to a sense of impunity.

In the News and Trending in the US for International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

Top things to do in the US for this observance

• Pay attention to your local and national news agencies. Journalists work hard to keep the public and their communities informed.
• Donate to reputable charities or organizations that help support journalists like the Committee to Protect Journalists.
• Watch a movie depicting the life of journalists. Our suggestions:
  Broadcast News (1987)
  All The President's Men (1976)
  Citizen Kane (1941)
• Write to your local and national representatives urging them to prioritize the safety of journalists and take stringent action against those responsible for crimes against them.

References