50 journalists killed in line of duty this year, most in ‘peaceful’ countries

ANKARA – At least 50 journalists were reported killed in 2020, more than one-third in the countries considered “at peace”, according to Paris-based Reporters Without Borders (RSF) – an international non-governmental organisation (NGO) that safeguards the right to freedom of information. 

“While the number of journalists killed in countries at war continues to fall, more get murdered in countries not at war,” said the RSF in a statement.

“Of all the journalists killed in 2020, 84% were knowingly targeted and deliberately murdered, as compared to 63% in 2019. Some were murdered in a particularly barbaric manner,” the statement added.

While seven journalists were killed while covering protests this year, 10 lost lives investigating local corruption or misuse of public funds. Four were killed investigating organised crime activities.

The number of female journalists arbitrarily detained this year increased by 35% and 14 journalists who were arrested in connection with their coverage of the pandemic are still being held.

“Some may think that journalists are just victims of the risks of their profession, but journalists are becoming increasingly targeted when they investigate or cover sensitive subjects. What is being attacked is the right to be informed, which is everyone’s right,” said RSF secretary-general Christophe Deloire. – Bernama, December 29, 2020