UNESCO and IFJ Condemn Killing of Sudanese Journalist Mubarak Musa Juma Amid Darfur Conflict

Freelance journalist Mubarak Musa Juma was killed during an armed attack in El Fasher, Northern Darfur, Sudan. He contributed to several news outlets and worked with the media office of the Darfur regional government.

UNESCO Director‑General Audrey Azoulay issued a strongly worded statement on 30 January 2025, expressing her deep sorrow and calling for a “thorough investigation into the circumstances” surrounding Juma’s death. She underscored the essential role of journalists in conflict zones and urged all parties to ensure their protection. UNESCO reaffirmed its commitment to supporting journalist safety worldwide through global awareness, capacity‑building initiatives, and coordinated action under the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) also issued a formal condemnation, highlighting that Juma’s death occurred amid systematic threats to press freedom in Sudan. The IFJ emphasised that Juma was one of many media workers already vulnerable due to environments of violence and impunity. His killing reflects the broader deterioration of conditions for journalism in Sudan, particularly as escalating conflict in Darfur has severely impacted civilians and media professionals alike.

Together, these statements bring international attention to the persistent dangers faced by journalists in Sudan. Both UNESCO and IFJ stressed the urgent need for accountability and the cessation of impunity for crimes against media personnel. UNESCO additionally called on all relevant actors to uphold legal protections and ensure that no one responsible for targeting journalists evades justice.

The death of Mubarak Musa Juma is emblematic of the perilous situation for journalists operating in conflict zones. The coordinated responses by UNESCO and IFJ highlight not only their condemnation of this tragic loss but also their commitment to advancing mechanisms that protect journalists, enforce accountability, and uphold freedom of expression in Sudan and across the globe.