UN Chief: Silencing Journalists Is Silencing the People

United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres has called on countries around the world to uphold the rights of journalists and not remain silent in the face of violence against them. His remarks came on the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.

In a statement, Guterres said that when journalists are silenced, it is, in effect, the people who lose their voice. He described impunity not only as an injustice but also as a direct attack on press freedom.

Statistics from the Committee to Protect Journalists reveal that, over the past four years since the Taliban came to power, 539 incidents of violence against journalists have been recorded in Afghanistan. The figures reflect a stifling atmosphere and widespread pressure on the media in a country that once had one of the most vibrant free press environments in the region.

Guterres warned that, globally, nine out of ten journalist killings go unpunished. He emphasized, “Let us stand together to defend press freedom, demand accountability, and ensure that those who speak truth to power can do so without fear.”