UN Calls for Stronger Global Action Against Impunity in Journalist Killings

The United Nations has renewed its call for stronger international efforts to protect journalists and end the culture of impunity surrounding crimes against media professionals. As outlined in recent reports and calls for input from the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR) and UNESCO, the global body is urging states to implement concrete measures to safeguard journalists and ensure accountability for violence against them.

The Secretary-General’s 2025 report on the safety of journalists highlights alarming trends. At least 70 journalists were killed in 2024 alone, many of them while covering conflict zones or investigating corruption and human rights abuses. Despite these numbers, conviction rates remain abysmally low. More than 86% of journalist killings over the past decade have gone unpunished, according to UNESCO. This entrenched impunity not only silences individual voices but weakens democratic institutions and public trust.

The report also underscores the widening scope of threats faced by journalists, particularly women and those reporting online. Harassment, smear campaigns, illegal surveillance, and arbitrary detention have increased globally. Women journalists are disproportionately targeted by digital threats, including doxxing and sexualized violence.

The UN is urging member states to strengthen their legal frameworks, provide timely and transparent investigations into crimes against journalists, and offer regular safety training. Countries are also encouraged to support independent media and protect freedom of expression both online and offline. Additionally, the UN is calling for better international cooperation and information sharing to track and respond to threats across borders.

As part of its ongoing campaign, UNESCO’s Director-General has requested input from member states, civil society, and media organizations on best practices and gaps in protecting journalists. These inputs will inform upcoming global dialogues, including events during the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists in November 2025.

The UN’s renewed urgency underscores a central principle: protecting journalists is not just about media rights, but about defending truth, transparency, and the public’s right to know.