UNITED NATIONS — On World Press Freedom Day, UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the escalating dangers faced by journalists, particularly those covering environmental issues, and called for better protection measures. Guterres highlighted the critical role these journalists play in educating the public about environmental crises and advocating for necessary changes.
According to Philippines News Agency, environmental journalists are increasingly targets of violence, with dozens killed in recent decades while reporting on illegal activities such as mining and logging. These findings reveal a disturbing trend of impunity, as the majority of these cases remain unresolved. UNESCO's report also noted approximately 750 attacks against environmental journalists over the last 15 years, underscoring the significant risks associated with this field of reporting. Guilherme Canela, UNESCO's Chief of Freedom of Expression and Safety of Journalists, stressed the importance of journalist protection, citing their role in informing the public and holding powerful entities accountable in environmental conflicts. The statement reaffirmed UNESCO's commitment to defending freedom of expression and press freedom globally.