Violence against journalists surged in 2024, with 104 media professionals killed worldwide, according to a report from the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) released on Tuesday.
The Gaza Strip is by far the deadliest region for journalists, with 55 killed—more than half of the global toll. The Middle East and Arab World accounted for 66 deaths overall, making it the most hazardous region for journalists for the second year in a row.
IFJ highlighted the dire conditions in Gaza since October 7, 2023. The escalating violence has claimed at least 138 Palestinian journalists’ lives to date, placing Gaza among the most perilous locations for modern journalism, alongside Iraq, the Philippines, and Mexico.
Lebanon and Syria also reported fatalities, with six and one journalists killed, respectively.
“Journalists face immense risks, especially in regions plagued by conflict and authoritarian regimes,” said IFJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger. He urged the United Nations to adopt a binding international convention for the protection of journalists.
In the Asia-Pacific region, journalist deaths increased sharply to 20, compared to 12 in 2023. Pakistan, Bangladesh, and India recorded most of the killings, reflecting rising violence in South Asia. Meanwhile, Myanmar’s military regime targeted the press, resulting in three deaths.
Africa reported eight journalist murders, with Sudan bearing the brunt due to ongoing conflict between military factions. Somalia and Chad also witnessed journalist deaths amid the ongoing political upheaval.
The Americas, particularly Mexico, recorded six journalists killed in 2024, the same number as in 2023. The majority were targeted for exposing drug trafficking. Colombia reported one fatality.
Europe, despite ongoing conflict in Ukraine, reported the lowest toll globally, with four journalist deaths this year.
Meanwhile, Journalist imprisonment reached alarming levels, with 520 media professionals detained globally. China, including Hong Kong, topped the list with 135 imprisoned journalists. Israel held 59 Palestinian journalists, and Myanmar detained 44.
The Asia-Pacific region accounted for nearly half of all imprisoned journalists, while Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America reported lower numbers.