International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists serves as a crucial reminder of the need to protect the fundamental human rights of freedom of expression and the safety of journalists worldwide. This day promotes awareness and encourages accountability for the crimes committed against these individuals who are essential in maintaining open and transparent societies. It is a call to action to end the cycle of impunity, where individuals and organizations engaging in violence and harassment against journalists often face little or no consequences for their actions.

Established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2013, the observance was a response to the increasing levels of violence and injustices faced by journalists across the globe. This day is particularly relevant for the Canadian population as the country emphasizes the importance of a free and independent press as a cornerstone of democracy. In recent years, Canada's ranking on the World Press Freedom Index, published by Reporters Without Borders, has experienced a decline due to incidents of harassment and surveillance of journalists by both the police and national security agencies.

In Canada, International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists is commemorated with various events, seminars, and conferences organized by media organizations and journalism schools. These events often highlight the risks journalists face, provide resources and support for those in danger, and generate public discourse around the protection of press freedoms. Though the events may vary, the shared goal is to honor and protect the vital work of journalists around the world. This global observance occurs annually on November 2nd.

Facts about this UN Observance

• More than 1000 journalists around the world have been killed in the last decade according to the U.N.
• According to the CPJ.org, in 2023, more than 11 journalists have been killed (motive confirmed), and more than 65 journalists have been reported missing.
• According to the U.N, in the last decade, only 1 out of 10 cases committed against journalists have lead to a conviction.
• In 2015, the Canadian Journalists for Free Expression (CJFE) reported that 31 Canadian journalists had been killed in the line of duty since 1948, including several who were targeted specifically for their work.
• Canadian journalists have access to the Charter of Rights and Freedoms, which guarantees freedom of the press; however, there are certain limitations, such as defamation laws and national security concerns, which can impact journalistic freedom.

In the News and Trending in Canada for International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists

Top things to do in Canada for this observance

• Pay attention to your local and national news agencies. Journalists work hard to keep the public and their communities informed.
• Write to your elected representatives. Let them know you value press freedom and request they support efforts to protect journalists and end impunity for crimes against them.
• Subscribe to newspapers and magazines, or make a donation to a local journalism nonprofit.