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August 07, 2024 – UK –
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the National Union of Journalists (NUJ) in the UK and Ireland have sounded the alarm over a disturbing rise in violence targeting journalists covering recent riots across the country, calling for urgent intervention by employers and authorities.
Since late July, far-right riots erupted in multiple UK towns in response to an anti-immigrant disinformation campaign following the Southport stabbings on July 29. Journalists reporting from the front lines have been attacked, harassed, and had their equipment destroyed. In one incident in Bolton on August 4, an agency photographer was punched and had his camera grabbed while filming a counter-protest. In Northern Ireland, at least three journalists were assaulted between August 3–6, including a vehicle-damaging attack and physical intimidation while wearing press credentials.
The NUJ reported that at least 428 arrests and 120 charges have been made linked to the unrest as of August 7, yet none involving assaults on journalists have resulted in prosecutions. In response, the NUJ has set up legal helplines and distributed its “Journalists’ Safety Toolkit,” urging media organizations to ensure proper protective gear and team coverage for staff, especially freelancers.
IFJ Deputy General Secretary Tim Dawson emphasized that attacks on journalists are attacks on democracy, stating: “Those who attack journalists are attacking democracy, and undermining everyone’s right to know.” He demanded that perpetrators be fully prosecuted and measures be taken to enable a safe reporting environment.
The unions are pushing for action across multiple fronts: employers must equip journalists with protective tools; police and authorities must promptly investigate and pursue charges; and freelance reporters should receive equal protection measures. The joint warning highlights a disconcerting escalation in threats to press safety amid turbulent public discourse. The IFJ and NUJ insist that without immediate safeguards, journalists covering unrest will continue to face unacceptable risks.
Reference –
UK: Violence against journalists reporting riots must not be tolerated – IFJ
