International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists: A call to end violence against journalists in Gaza

One of the biggest challenges of recent times has been putting an end to the impunity for crimes against journalists, as well as protecting their rights while doing their job. Ensuring that all citizens have access to information and freedom of expression is a necessary prerequisite.

In the context of protecting journalists, the UN General Assembly declared November 2 to be the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. The date was selected to honor the November 2, 2013, assassination of two French journalists in Mali. 

This day is an opportunity to denounce assaults and acts of violence against journalists and media professionals. It further calls on member states to take all reasonable steps to stop violence against media professionals and journalists, to maintain accountability, to prosecute those who commit crimes against them, and to guarantee that victims receive the right kind of compensation. It also urges governments to support an atmosphere that is secure and supportive of journalists, according to the United Nations. 

The theme this year is to alert people to the growing violence and repression that journalists and communicators suffer while practicing their profession and to bring attention to the obstacles they face. It also aims to raise awareness of the need for a free and safe press in maintaining the credibility of democratic processes. The main commemoration this year will take place on November 2-3 at the headquarters of the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington DC.  

This year, the day coincides with the severe bombardment of the Gaza Strip by the Israeli occupation. Le Monde reported that journalists have been dealing with an alarming scenario since October 7, as Palestinian journalists are not protected and have been greatly suffering as a result of the recent violence. According to the non-governmental organization Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), 27 journalists have died and dozens more have been injured since the Israeli occupation’s attack on the Strip. 

The Israeli military said in a statement to Reuters and AFP that it was unable to ensure the security of journalists in Gaza. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), along with its Palestinian affiliate, the Palestinian Journalists' Syndicate (PJS), condemned this statement noting that all belligerents are required by international law to protect civilians, especially journalists, Relief Web reported.

The Israeli occupation was urged by the IFJ to clarify its policy on the preservation of civilian life and to outline the measures it is taking to guarantee adherence to the rules. IFJ Deputy General Secretary Tim Dawson said, “It is widely believed among journalists in Gaza that they and their families are being deliberately targeted by Israeli soldiers and rocket fire. In the febrile atmosphere of war, it is vital that the Israeli Government answers these accusations and commits itself to protecting the welfare of journalists in the future.”