By: Lebohang Maluke

MASERU

-Every year on November 2nd, the world comes together to observe the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists.

This day, designated by the United Nations General Assembly (UN – GA), is a reminder of the dangers faced by journalists, and the need for justice for those who have been targeted for their work.

It is also a call to action for governments, media organizations, and individuals to take a stand against impunity.

As journalists, our words have the power to educate, inform, and shape the world we live in. However, the very act of speaking truth to power can also put our lives at risk. Sadly, this is the reality for many journalists around the world who face harassment, imprisonment, and even death for simply doing their job.

That is why the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists is such a crucial event, as it sheds light on the ongoing threats faced by journalists and calls for accountability for those who seek to silence them.

Impunity refers to the lack of accountability or punishment for those who commit crimes. The case of crimes against journalists, this includes physical attacks, intimidation, harassment, and murder.

According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, since 1992, more than 1,400 journalists [U1] have been killed in the line of duty. And shockingly, in 9 out of 10 cases, the perpetrators have gone unpunished. This lack of justice not only denies closure for the families and loved ones of the victims but also sends a chilling message to those who continue to risk their lives to bring us the truth.

The theme for this year’s International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists is “Leaving No One Behind: Strengthening the Protection of Journalists in the Digital Age”. With the rise of digital journalism and the spread of misinformation, journalists are facing new threats and challenges. Online harassment, cyber-attacks, and surveillance are just some of the ways in which journalists are being targeted. It is imperative that we adapt to these changing times and find effective ways to protect journalists and ensure their safety.

One of the key ways to combat impunity is by holding those responsible for attacks on journalists accountable. This can be achieved through strong legal frameworks, effective law enforcement, and an independent and impartial judiciary.

Governments must also take proactive measures to create a safe and enabling environment for journalists to work in, free from fear of reprisals. This can include providing training on digital safety, creating laws that protect freedom of expression, and establishing mechanisms for journalists to report threats and attacks.

Media organizations also have a responsibility to ensure the safety of their journalists. This includes providing safety protocols, insurance coverage, and psychological support for those who have been affected by traumatic events.

By working together, governments, media organizations, and civil society can send a clear message that attacks on journalists will not be tolerated and that those responsible will be held accountable.

On this International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, let us remember and honor the brave journalists who have lost their lives in pursuit of the truth. Let us also stand in solidarity with those who continue to face threats and attacks, and reaffirm our commitment to protecting press freedom.

As we come together to call for an end to impunity, let us remember that when journalists are silenced, our voices and our right to know are also silenced. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that journalists can do their job without fear or hindrance, and that those who target them face justice. Only then can we truly uphold the principles of a free and democratic society.

Today, we stand united to end impunity for crimes committed against journalists, for their work deserves recognition and protection, not punishment or death. Their voices are a beacon of truth, justice, and freedom, and we must ensure that no one is able to silence them. Remember, if the journalists’ pens fall silent, so too does the world’s conscience.