The United Nations has raised alarm over the persistent lack of accountability for crimes committed against journalists, revealing that 85 per cent of such cases go uninvestigated and unpunished globally.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres described the situation as an “unacceptable level of impunity” in his message marking the 2026 World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3.
He stressed that press freedom remains a cornerstone of democracy, noting that the media plays a vital role as a public watchdog. Guterres referenced the 1991 Windhoek Declaration, which underscored the importance of media independence and led to the establishment of World Press Freedom Day to promote and defend press freedom worldwide.
The UN chief warned that economic pressures, emerging technologies, and the deliberate spread of misinformation are placing unprecedented strain on press freedom.
According to him, the erosion of access to reliable information fuels mistrust, while distorted public discourse weakens social cohesion and makes crises harder to prevent and resolve.
“When journalism is undermined, crises become far more difficult to prevent and resolve,” he said.
Guterres emphasised that press freedom underpins all other freedoms, adding that without it, human rights, sustainable development, and peace cannot thrive.
He called for stronger measures to protect journalists, noting that media professionals are often the first casualties in conflict situations as they risk their lives to report the truth.
“Far too often, journalists become the first victims—not only in war but wherever those in power fear scrutiny,” he stated.
The Secretary-General further highlighted growing threats faced by media workers worldwide, including censorship, surveillance, legal harassment, and targeted killings, particularly in conflict zones.
He urged governments and stakeholders to take decisive action to safeguard journalists and ensure that truth and those who report it are protected.
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