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Geneva: A record 179 journalists lost their lives in 2024, the highest number reported in over a decade, according to the Press Emblem Campaign (PEC). This marks a 28% increase from the 140 media casualties reported in 2023. The PEC revealed that nearly three-quarters of the deaths occurred in conflict zones, with December alone witnessing 20 fatalities. The toll underscores the growing dangers faced by journalists globally, with the Middle East accounting for more than half of the victims.
In Gaza, the deadliest zone, 80 journalists were killed, followed by 6 in Lebanon, 4 in Syria, and 1 in the West Bank. Since October 2023, hostilities in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of 161 media workers, making it one of the most perilous conflicts for journalists in modern history. Meanwhile, the war in Ukraine claimed the lives of 21 journalists, including 19 Ukrainians and Reuters journalist Ryan Evans, who was killed in Kramatorsk. In addition, Ukrainian journalist Victoria Rochtchina died in Russian custody in October.
Beyond these regions, Pakistan emerged as one of the most dangerous countries, with 12 journalists murdered in 2024, a sharp deterioration from previous years. Bangladesh witnessed the deaths of 7 journalists, while India recorded 4 murders. Mexico also reported 7 fatalities, while Sudan saw 6 journalists lose their lives in ongoing hostilities. Other countries with casualties included Myanmar, Colombia, Somalia, and Haiti, among others.
The PEC reported that 92 journalists were killed in the Middle East, followed by 31 in Asia, 28 in Europe, 17 in Latin America, and 11 in Africa. This geographic distribution highlights the increasing risks across the globe, particularly in Asia, which saw a significant rise in journalist deaths compared to previous years. Over the past decade, the PEC has documented 1,159 journalist deaths, with Gaza/West Bank, Ukraine, Mexico, Pakistan, and India being the most perilous regions.
Blaise Lempen, President of PEC, condemned the rising number of attacks and called for immediate independent investigations to bring perpetrators to justice. “This record death toll reinforces the urgent need for international mechanisms to protect journalists, especially in conflict zones. Without justice, the cycle of impunity will continue,” Lempen said.
PEC’s South Asia representative, Nava Thakuria, highlighted the alarming situation in Pakistan, Bangladesh, India, and Myanmar. He stressed the need for stronger measures to safeguard journalists and ensure accountability for their murders. The PEC reiterated its commitment to advocating for the safety and rights of media workers worldwide while urging governments and international organizations to take decisive action to protect press freedom and ensure justice for the victims.
