Journalists Face Rising Threats as Impunity for Attacks Grows Worldwide

News Desk

ISLAMABAD: On the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, observed today, the alarming rise in threats against reporters is underscored by the theme ‘Threats Evolve. Impunity Endures’.

Journalists worldwide are increasingly targeted through sophisticated methods, including drone attacks, online harassment, and legal intimidation, with perpetrators often escaping justice.

According to Unesco, 189 journalists were killed in 2024 and 2025, predominantly in conflict zones, yet justice remains elusive in most cases.

The global impunity rate for crimes against journalists has surged to 86%, marking the first increase since Unesco began tracking this data in 2012.

This troubling trend sends a dangerous message that journalists can be attacked or killed without fear of repercussions.

The implications of this growing impunity extend beyond the safety of journalists; they threaten the very foundation of democracy and freedom of expression.

As journalists are silenced, the public’s right to information is compromised, leading to a less informed society and weakened accountability for those in power.

In light of these challenges, calls for stronger protections for journalists are more urgent than ever.

Advocacy groups and international bodies are expected to push for comprehensive measures to ensure accountability and safeguard the rights of those who risk their lives to report the truth.