UN Chief Says 85% Of Crimes Against Journalists Go Unpunished

Marking World Press Freedom Day on 3 May, he warned that journalists face severe risks including censorship, surveillance, legal pressure, intimidation, and even targeted killings in conflict zones.

Guterres noted that in recent years the number of journalists killed, particularly in war-affected regions, has increased, with many attacks appearing to be deliberate and aimed at silencing reporting.

He also cautioned that economic pressure, emerging technologies, and information manipulation are increasingly undermining independent journalism and restricting access to reliable information.

According to him, weakening journalism fuels distrust, erodes social cohesion, and makes conflict prevention and resolution significantly more difficult.

In Afghanistan, press freedom has sharply declined since the return of Taliban rule, with journalists facing censorship, arrests, and operational restrictions across the country.

Media watchdogs report that many outlets have been closed or heavily controlled, while journalists operate under constant fear of detention or harassment for critical reporting.

Female journalists in Afghanistan have been particularly affected, with many barred from work or forced into exile, significantly reducing women's participation in the media sector.

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