Statement delivered by the PEC at the Human Rights Council

General Assembly
Human Rights Council 36th session
Item 4 General Debate

Mr. President, 

A resolution on the safety of journalists was adopted unanimously by the Human Rights Council exactly one year ago. It condemns all attacks against journalists.

Regrettably, the Press Emblem Campaign (PEC) has documented the murder of 68 media workers in 20 countries since January this year up to date. It is an encouraging improvement with one-third fewer journalists killed than for the same period last year (99). 

However, these figures are still too high. Impunity is a major problem in conflict zones and failed States where no independent investigation is possible, as in Syria and Yemen.

It demonstrates that the international community has a duty to continue to reinforce the protection of media workers in the field, to investigate more effectively the crimes against them and to combat with more firmness impunity. 

The PEC is particularly concerned about a further deterioration of the journalists' safety in Mexico where 12 journalists were murdered since January. We are also worried by the brutal murder of senior journalist Gauri Lankesh at the beginning of September in India. Those responsible for these crimes must be prosecuted and convicted.

The situation has not improved in Turkey where more than 150 journalists are still behind bars. We call once again on Turkey to respect its international obligations concerning freedom of expression and to release all journalists detained.

Thank you for your attention 
20 September 2017