International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists is a global event that raises awareness of the need to protect journalists and bring criminals who target them to justice. The observance emphasizes the crucial role that journalists play in providing information and news, as well as their right to work in safety without fear of reprisals. This day acknowledges that when journalists are threatened or killed, it not only impacts their families and communities but also impedes the free flow of information that societies depend on.

This important annual event was first proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013, following the killing of two French journalists in Mali. The situation in South Africa sees journalists exposed to various forms of harassment, threats, and even physical attacks. This challenging context highlights the importance of International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists in South Africa, as it emphasizes the need for greater protection of journalists and more effective action against those responsible for such crimes.

In South Africa, International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists is observed through activities such as panel discussions, workshops, and events organized by media organizations, NGOs, and professional associations. These events aim to raise awareness about the challenges faced by South African journalists and foster dialogue on how to create a safer environment for them to carry out their work. The observance of this important day occurs annually on November 2, with various activities taking place across South Africa to encourage discussion, awareness, and action against impunity for crimes targeting journalists.

Facts about this UN Observance

• More than 1000 journalists around the world have been killed in the last decade according to the U.N.
• According to the CPJ.org, in 2023, more than 11 journalists have been killed (motive confirmed), and more than 65 journalists have been reported missing.
• According to the U.N, in the last decade, only 1 out of 10 cases committed against journalists have lead to a conviction.
• South Africa ranked 32 out of 180 countries in the 2021 World Press Freedom Index compiled by Reporters Without Borders. While the ranking is relatively high, the issue of impunity for crimes against journalists still remains a concern for the country.
• Between 2006 and 2019, at least 11 journalists were killed in South Africa in relation to their work, according to the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). However, many cases remain unsolved or not properly investigated, resulting in a lack of accountability for the perpetrators.

In the News and Trending in South Africa for International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

Top things to do in South Africa for this observance

• Pay attention to your local and national news agencies. Journalists work hard to keep the public and their communities informed.
• Use this day as an opportunity to write to government officials, urging them to take action in protecting and supporting journalists. Emphasize the importance of freedom of the press and ending impunity for crimes against journalists.
• Consider making a financial contribution to organizations that support the safety and well-being of journalists, such as the South African National Editors' Forum (SANEF) or the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ).