Addis Ababa, Ethiopia — In a moving ceremony, Ambassador Alexis Lamek joined forces with prominent organizations to mark the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, underscoring the vital role of press freedom and honoring the courageous journalists who have lost their lives in the pursuit of truth.
The event, held in partnership with the UNESCO Office in Addis Ababa, the African Union, CFImedias, and the Ethiopian Media Council, brought together diplomats, media professionals, and advocates to commemorate journalists whose lives were cut short in the line of duty. For Ambassador Lamek, today’s event serves as “a powerful reminder of our shared responsibility to uphold press freedom and protect those who risk their lives for truth.”
Over the past three decades, hundreds of journalists across Africa and beyond have faced violence, imprisonment, and death while striving to uncover stories that shape society. The Day to End Impunity highlights the critical need for accountability in crimes against journalists, many of which remain unsolved or overlooked. By bringing attention to these tragedies, UNESCO, the African Union, and their partners hope to foster a climate of protection for the press and emphasize the importance of justice.
“Without a free and safe press, the foundation of democratic societies is at risk,” said a spokesperson from the African Union. “Journalists bring stories from the margins to the center, giving voice to the voiceless, and we must honor their work by ensuring their safety.”
UNESCO, which has long championed press freedom and the protection of journalists worldwide, provided insights into the ongoing challenges journalists face. Statistics shared at the event revealed the staggering number of journalists affected by threats, harassment, and violence. In response, UNESCO called on governments, civil society, and the international community to strengthen legal frameworks that hold perpetrators accountable.
Today’s gathering served not only as a tribute but also as a rallying cry for meaningful change. Through campaigns like #IDEI and #PressFreedom, advocates are urging for policies that not only protect journalists but also create environments in which they can work without fear.
With this annual commemoration, stakeholders across the media landscape hope to inspire governments and individuals alike to uphold the principles of press freedom. By honoring the legacy of fallen journalists, today’s event reminds the world of the critical importance of a free and fearless press.
#EndImpunity #PressFreedom #IDEI #JournalismMatters #ProtectJournalists #FreedomOfThePress #JusticeForJournalists #SpeakTruthToPower #MediaSafety #RightToKnow #JournalistsInDanger #UNESCO #AfricanUnion #CFImedias #EthiopianMediaCouncil #StandWithJournalists #HumanRights #TruthMatters #JournalismIsNotACrime
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