From Armed Conflicts to Digital Space: The UN Demands Protection for Truth Defenders

Here’s the text translated into American English:

Journalists face great risks daily in their pursuit of truth, often jeopardizing their own lives. However, a troubling majority of attacks against them remain unpunished. On the occasion of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, commemorated every November 2, the United Nations has intensified its call for justice for those who have been silenced, as well as for the protection of those who continue to expose abuses of power, both in conflict zones and in the digital environment.

UN Secretary-General António Guterres highlighted that media professionals are facing increasing dangers, including verbal abuse, legal threats, physical assaults, and even murder. In his message, he emphasized the tragic reality that nearly nine out of ten journalist murders go unresolved worldwide. Guterres pointed out that Gaza has become one of the most dangerous places to practice journalism in conflict situations and demanded impartial and thorough investigations into these crimes.

Impunity not only represents an injustice for victims and their families, Guterres asserted, but it also attacks press freedom, invites further violence, and threatens democracy. To combat this situation, he urged governments to investigate every attack and bring perpetrators to justice, ensuring that journalists can work freely.

In a context where gender-based violence in the digital sphere is a growing problem, UNESCO is leading a campaign this year focused on the use of technology to target women journalists. With the “Chat GBV” initiative, the organization aims to raise awareness about gender-based violence enabled by artificial intelligence. Generative technologies have amplified the scope of online abuse, creating an environment where the credibility and safety of information professionals are threatened.

A UNESCO study reveals that 73% of women journalists have faced online threats, and one in four has experienced physical attacks as a result. Additionally, 58% of young women worldwide have been harassed on social media, highlighting the magnitude of the problem. Guterres stressed the need for digital spaces to be safe for those who disseminate news, warning that when journalists are silenced, society as a whole loses its voice.

The collective message from the UN and journalists is clear: justice for those victimized by crimes simply for doing their work must be non-negotiable. Furthermore, it is essential to reclaim digital spaces from those who use technology to sow fear and hatred.

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via: MiMub in Spanish

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