2024 Sees Record Highs in Journalist Deaths and Imprisonments, IFJ Report Warns of Growing Threats

CGC News Reporter December 10, 2024

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has released its 2024 annual report, highlighting a particularly deadly year for journalists and media workers worldwide. As of December 10, 104 journalists have been killed globally, with more than half of the deaths (55) occurring in Gaza, Palestine. The war in Gaza continues to make it one of the most dangerous regions for journalists, with the ongoing conflict contributing significantly to the rising toll.

This year’s report, which is still incomplete, also notes a troubling increase in the imprisonment of journalists. The IFJ documented 520 journalists in prison, a sharp rise from 427 in 2023 and 375 in 2022. China remains the world’s largest jailer of journalists, with 135 behind bars, followed by Israel and Myanmar.

The Middle East and Arab World region recorded the highest number of journalist deaths, with 66 fatalities in 2024, accounting for nearly 60% of all journalist deaths this year. The violence in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria continues to endanger media professionals, with the IFJ emphasizing the need for international protection and action to safeguard journalists.

In the Asia-Pacific region, journalist deaths surged to 20, primarily driven by violence in South Asia, with Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India experiencing the highest casualties. Meanwhile, Africa saw 8 journalists killed, with Sudan being the most affected due to ongoing conflict.

Despite the continuing threat, Europe remains the safest region for journalists, with 4 fatalities recorded, mostly due to the war in Ukraine.

The IFJ has reiterated its call for an International Convention for the Protection of Journalists, urging the United Nations to take swift action to address the escalating dangers faced by media professionals worldwide.