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May 02, 2025 – Latin America –
In Mexico and Honduras, journalists are under constant threat not only from organized crime but increasingly from the state itself. Investigative reporter Humberto Padgett, who was attacked and robbed in September 2024 while reporting on drought in central Mexico, has since quit journalism after enduring years of threats, harassment, and government negligence, even while under an official protection program. Similarly, Wendy Funes, a Honduran journalist, has been subjected to bodyguard protection, cyberattacks, and sexist abuse for exposing corruption and links between officials and criminal gangs.
Although both countries have state-run protection mechanisms offering panic buttons, bodyguards, and surveillance, these systems are often ineffective, with nearly half of journalist attacks coming from state agents. Impunity remains a major issue—over 90% of these crimes are never prosecuted.
The climate has worsened under current left-wing governments despite public promises to support press freedom. Anti-media rhetoric, spyware surveillance, and smear campaigns have escalated. In addition, recent cuts to foreign aid programs, particularly from the U.S., have left many independent outlets without critical funding, undermining hard-won progress in journalist safety and professionalism.
Despite these dangers, many reporters continue to investigate corruption, human rights abuses, and state-criminal collusion. They are adapting by forming networks, collaborating across borders, and seeking international backing. However, without systemic accountability and sustainable support, the future of independent journalism in these countries remains dangerously uncertain.
Reference –
The Global Threat to Journalists’ Safety Online and Offline: Lessons from Mexico
