02/11/2026
Journalists should never be a target. Yet around the world, journalists and media workers continue to face threats, intimidation, arbitrary detention, violence and even murder simply for doing their job.
According to UNESCO, more than 1,700 journalists were killed between 2006 and 2024, and approximately 85% of these cases did not make it to court. Impunity for crimes against journalists remains widespread, both online and offline.
Free, independent and pluralistic media are essential to freedom of expression, an informed public debate and our democratic societies. Journalists must be able to report freely and safely, including in conflict areas.
The Netherlands remains committed to protecting journalists and promoting media freedom. Through support for organisations such as Free Press Unlimited and Reporters Without Borders, UNESCO programmes, and our diplomatic efforts, we work with international partners to strengthen journalists’ safety and combat impunity.
We must stand together to defend press freedom, protect those who bring us the truth and ensure that crimes against journalists do not go unpunished.
Impunity must end.
The threats journalists face are changing. But one reality persists: those responsible for their killings too often go unpunished.
According to UNESCO's latest report, 86% of journalist killings worldwide remain unresolved.
Every journalist silenced is a loss for us all.
On the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, we call for action to end impunity, protect journalists and defend .
🔗 https://www.unesco.org/en/days/end-impunity