International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists 2023

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists 2023

The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists is a globally recognized occasion that shines a spotlight on the dangers and violence journalists and media workers face in their line of duty. Every year, on November 2nd, this day serves as a poignant reminder of the vital role that a free press plays in upholding democracy and the imperative to safeguard those who uncover the truth.

Ten Years of the United Nations Plan of Action

2023 marks the tenth anniversary of the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists, an initiative with a lofty mission – to create a secure and liberated environment for media professionals worldwide. In a recent message, Mr. Guterres, the United Nations Secretary-General, emphasized the pressing need to eradicate a culture of impunity that allows crimes against journalists to go unpunished. This anniversary serves as a call to action to ensure journalists can carry out their essential work without fear.

The United Nations Resolution

The United Nations General Assembly officially designated November 2nd as the ‘International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists’ through General Assembly Resolution A/RES/68/163. This groundbreaking resolution not only condemns all attacks and violence against journalists and media workers but also implores Member States to take concrete steps to counter the prevailing culture of impunity.

Commitment to Justice and Accountability

The United Nations General Assembly proclaimed 2 November as the ‘International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists’ in General Assembly Resolution A/RES/68/163. The Resolution urged Member States to implement definite measures countering the present culture of impunity. The date was chosen in commemoration of the assassination of two French journalists in Mali on 2 November 2013.

This landmark resolution condemns all attacks and violence against journalists and media workers. It also urges Member States to do their utmost to prevent violence against journalists and media workers, to ensure accountability, bring to justice perpetrators of crimes against journalists and media workers, and ensure that victims have access to appropriate remedies. It further calls upon States to promote a safe and enabling environment for journalists to perform their work independently and without undue interference.

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