85% of crimes against journalists go unpunished - UN

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has issued a stark warning about the alarming impunity surrounding crimes against journalists, revealing that a staggering 85% of such offenses go uninvestigated and unpunished. Speaking on World Press Freedom Day, Guterres underscored the critical role of a free press as a pillar of democracy and a vital public watchdog.

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85 per cent of crimes committed against journalists go uninvestigated and unpunished, describing the situation as an unacceptable level of impunity.

His message highlighted the unprecedented strain on press freedom, exacerbated by economic pressures, emerging technologies, and deliberate disinformation campaigns. "When access to reliable information erodes, mistrust takes root. When public debate is distorted, social cohesion weakens. And when journalism is undermined, crises become far more difficult to prevent and resolve," he stated, emphasizing that all freedoms ultimately depend on press freedom.

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Press freedom remained a key pillar of democracy, noting that the media served as a public watchdog in society.

Guterres drew attention to the perilous reality faced by journalists worldwide, who often become the first casualties in conflict or wherever power fears scrutiny. They risk censorship, surveillance, legal harassment, and even death in their pursuit of truth. The UN chief noted a disturbing rise in the number of journalists killed in recent years, frequently as direct targets in conflict zones.

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When access to reliable information erodes, mistrust takes root. When public debate is distorted, social cohesion weakens. And when journalism is undermined, crises become far more difficult to prevent and resolve.

From a Nigerian perspective, as reported by The Punch, this statement by the UN Secretary-General resonates deeply. The safety and freedom of journalists are not abstract concepts but essential components of a functioning democracy and a check on power. The high rate of impunity for crimes against journalists in Nigeria and globally is a grave concern, hindering the media's ability to hold governments and other powerful entities accountable. This issue is particularly pertinent in contexts where journalists often face intimidation and threats for reporting on sensitive issues, making the call for stronger protection and an end to impunity a matter of urgent importance for the health of public discourse and democratic governance.

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All freedom depends on press freedom. Without it, there can be no human rights, no sustainable development, and no peace.