By Chukwuemeka Umesi
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In recent months, multiple journalists covering protests in different parts of the world have been subjected to various forms of attacks, including killings, injuries, arbitrary detentions, and confiscation of their equipment, while exercising their rightful duties as journalists.
The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has issued a strong statement calling for the protection of journalists covering protests worldwide. The statement comes amidst a surge in attacks on journalists reporting on demonstrations and protests in various parts of the world.
In recent months, multiple journalists covering protests in different parts of the world have been subjected to various forms of attacks, including killings, injuries, arbitrary detentions, and confiscation of their equipment, while exercising their rightful duties as journalists.
“Journalists play a vital role in ensuring that the public has access to accurate and reliable information, especially during times of social unrest,” said UNESCO Director-General, Audrey Azoulay. “It is unacceptable that they are being targeted and intimidated while carrying out their work.”
UNESCO has documented numerous cases of attacks on journalists covering protests in countries such as Egypt, Sudan, South Africa, and the United States. These attacks have resulted in serious injuries, detentions, and even deaths.
The organization is urging governments and law enforcement agencies to take immediate action to protect journalists and ensure that they can carry out their work without fear of reprisal.
“Journalists must be able to report on protests and demonstrations without facing violence or intimidation,” Azoulay said. “Their freedom to work is essential to the health of democracy and the public’s right to know.”
UNESCO is calling on governments to: Take immediate action to protect journalists covering protests and ensure their safety. Investigate and prosecute all attacks on journalists. Ensure that law enforcement agencies respect the rights of journalists to report on protests Provide training to law enforcement agencies on the importance of protecting journalists. The organization is also urging journalists and media organizations to take steps to ensure their safety while covering protests, including: Wearing protective gear and identifying themselves as journalists Staying informed about the situation on the ground Avoiding areas where violence is likely to occur. Reporting any attacks or intimidation to the authorities
UNESCO’s call for protection of journalists covering protests worldwide has been endorsed by various international organizations and media groups, including the International Federation of Journalists and the Committee to Protect Journalists.”The safety of journalists is essential to the health of democracy,” said Azoulay. “We must all work together to ensure that they can carry out their work without fear of reprisal.”