Media workers’ deaths

Over 100 journalists and media staff were killed during their duties in 2014 — an increase of 13% compared with the previous year — according to a report by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ).

The 24th annual IFJ report, cites the deaths of 118 journalists and media staff. The Asia Pacific region had the highest death toll with 35 killings, making it the most dangerous region for journalists and media staff in the world for the second year. The Middle East came second with 31 killed, followed by the Americas with 26. Journalists in Africa suffered 17 violent deaths and there were nine in Europe.

Wars and conflicts in Syria, Iraq and Ukraine, Pakistan and Afghanistan accounted for many killings targeting journalists.

Last month saw the killings of journalists at the offices of the Charlie Hebdo magazine in Paris. The UK’s National Union Journalists (NUJ) condemned the murders.

Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, said: “Our hearts go out to the families of the 10 journalists and police officers killed in this despicable raid”, adding that “the perpetrators must swiftly be brought to justice”. And, she said: “Supporters of free speech and civil liberties must stand together with governments to condemn this act and defend the right of all journalists to do their job without fear of threats, intimidation and brutal murder.”

http://ifj-safety.org/en

https://www.nuj.org.uk/news/nuj-response-to-charlie-hebdo-killings