Journalists play a vital role in protecting democracies, holding the powerful to account, and informing the public of human rights abuses. And yet, impunity for crimes against journalists is rife. To ensure a safer future for us all, we must call on governments and international and regional bodies to support and fund initiatives that protect journalists. According to the UN, since 2012, at least 50 National Protection Mechanisms for the safety of journalists have been established, including in the Philippines and in Colombia, although there are widespread calls for these plans to be adequately implemented and improved. Those responsible for human rights violations against the media – including politicians, organised cartels and groups, powerful businesses and individuals – must be brought to justice and the international community must continue to put pressure on states to prosecute crimes against journalists wherever they happen. Impunity cannot continue to be the norm. Find out more about protecting journalists and impunity |