UNESCO’s latest report highlights that six out of seven journalist murders remain unpunished, with a significant rise in the number of killings, particularly in conflict zones, raising concerns over press safety globally.
In a stark revelation, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has reported that six in seven murders of journalists go unpunished, highlighting a troubling trend in the protection of media professionals globally. The findings, released in the Director-General’s Report on the Safety of Journalists and the Danger of Impunity, coincide with the observance of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists on November 2. This year’s report covers the biennium of 2024-2025 and indicates a significant increase in the number of journalist fatalities compared to previous periods.
According to the report, a total of 189 journalists and media workers were confirmed killed during the 2024-2025 period, marking a 20 percent increase from the previous biennium and the highest toll since 2014-2015. This alarming uptick has raised serious concerns among international observers and press freedom advocates regarding the risks faced by journalists, particularly those operating in conflict zones.
Trends in Journalist Fatalities
Of the 189 confirmed deaths, over two-thirds, or 127 individuals, were killed in conflict areas, underscoring the perilous environments many journalists navigate to report critical news. UN Secretary-General António Guterres emphasized the gravity of the situation, stating, “Over the past year, at least 34 journalists paid the ultimate price. Six of every seven such killings go unpunished. In conflict settings, the rate of impunity is close to 100 percent.” This lack of accountability not only affects the victims and their families but also has broader implications for democratic societies that rely on a free press.
The report indicates that journalist killings occurred across all global regions during the 2024-2025 period, characterizing the situation as “a global scourge.” The Arab States recorded the highest number of verified cases, totaling 97, followed by Latin America and the Caribbean with 37, Asia-Pacific with 34, Central and Eastern Europe with 14, Africa with 6, and Western Europe and North America with 1.
Regional Insights and Notable Cases
The State of Palestine emerged as the most dangerous location for journalists, with the report documenting 30 killings in the 2022-2023 period and 32 in 2024-2025. These figures underscore the ongoing risks faced by media personnel in regions marked by political unrest and armed conflict.
In addition to the alarming statistics, the report identifies a new threat to journalists: the use of drones in targeted killings. In the 2024-2025 biennium, drone strikes accounted for the deaths of 50 journalists, making up 40 percent of all fatalities in conflict zones. This trend raises concerns about the evolving tactics used against journalists, with several incidents involving multiple journalists being targeted in single attacks, including strikes on media workplaces and temporary reporting centers. Notably, 15 journalists were killed while visibly marked as ‘Press’, indicating a deliberate targeting of media personnel.
Legislative and Policy Context
UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany reiterated the importance of adhering to UN Security Council Resolution 2222, which was unanimously adopted in 2015 to protect journalists and media professionals as civilians in conflict situations. El-Enany called for continued commitment to protecting journalists, stating, “I reiterate my call for the respect of UN Security Council Resolution 2222… a status reaffirmed in the Pact for the Future.”
Progress and Challenges
Despite the grim statistics, the report also highlights some positive developments, particularly in non-conflict countries. The rate of impunity for journalist killings in these regions has declined from 94 percent in 2012 to 77 percent in 2026, reflecting a gradual improvement in accountability measures. Additionally, the number of journalist killings in non-conflict zones has reached a historic low, with 85 fatalities reported, the fewest in 18 years. UNESCO attributes this progress to increased government investments in investigations and protections for journalists.
Women Journalists at Risk
However, the report draws attention to the heightened risks faced by women journalists, who are disproportionately affected by violence and harassment. Out of the 14 women journalists killed in the 2024-2025 biennium, 13 were in countries experiencing armed conflict. A 2025 study by UN Women and the International Center for Journalists revealed that 75 percent of women journalists reported experiencing online or offline abuse. Furthermore, more than 40 percent indicated offline violence linked to online attacks, a significant increase from 20 percent in a 2020 UNESCO survey.
In conclusion, the findings from UNESCO’s report paint a concerning picture of the current state of journalist safety worldwide. As the UN Secretary-General noted, “Across the world, journalists continue to pay an outrageous price for telling the truth.” He called for justice and accountability, emphasizing that when journalists are targeted, it affects everyone who relies on their reporting to stay informed.
