Washington D.C., On the occasion of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists (IDEI), UNESCO, along with its partners, convened at the Organization of American States (OAS) in Washington, DC, to address the escalating violence against journalists in Latin America and the Caribbean. This gathering aimed to draw international attention and support for journalists facing threats and violence, particularly those in exile.
According to the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), Latin America and the Caribbean continue to be the region with the highest number of journalist murders, with 69 journalists from ten countries killed between January 2022 and July 2023. The day also marked the 10th anniversary of IDEI, highlighting the ongoing struggle against non-lethal violence and threats to journalists both online and offline.
The meeting focused on the challenges faced by exiled journalists, the support they require, and two UNESCO initiatives in Latin America and the Caribbean: a new regional hub as part of the global “Safe Spaces” project and a model law on journalists’ safety. The “Safe Spaces” project, supported by UNESCO’s International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC) and funded by France, the Netherlands, and Poland, aims to provide shelter, workspaces, resources, training, legal, and psychological support to journalists in conflict and post-conflict situations. Pilot phases are currently underway in Ukraine, Pakistan (for Afghan journalists), and Sudan.
Journalist José Luis Sanz from El Faro, a Salvadoran digital news outlet, shared his experiences of adapting to evolving types of attacks and the emotional and practical challenges of relocation, especially for those with families. Carlos Lauría, executive director-elect of the Inter American Press Association, emphasized the difficulties faced by relocated journalists, including financial constraints, language barriers, migration challenges, and continued threats.
Zuliana Lainez, senior vice president of the International Federation of Journalists, outlined the necessity of addressing physical security, livelihood, migration, and legal support for exiled journalists. She proposed concrete measures like providing international press cards, coordinating media employer networks, and seeking UN system support.
Mauricio Weibel of the Society of Latin American Correspondents underscored the importance of protecting journalists as a means of safeguarding democracy, advocating for the power of networks over physical protections.
Rosa Maria González from UNESCO highlighted the need for reliable data on displaced journalists and the overwhelming challenges faced by organizations in host countries. The initiative also includes developing a model protocol for enhanced legal measures and policies on journalists’ safety. A model law is under discussion in the Chilean congress and has been presented to the congresses of Mexico and Paraguay.
Nicholas Benequista, senior director of the Center for International Media Assistance, called for international community action, including financial support and the use of OAS and UN mechanisms, to address this critical issue.