By Daniel Oluwatobiloba Popoola
United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has raised alarm that 85 per cent of crimes committed against journalists worldwide remain uninvestigated and unpunished, describing the trend as an unacceptable level of impunity.
Guterres stated this on Sunday, 3 May, 2026 in his message to mark World Press Freedom Day, observed annually on May 3, where he highlighted growing threats to press freedom and the safety of journalists across the globe, while urging stronger protections for media professionals.
He emphasised that press freedom remains a fundamental pillar of democracy, noting that the media plays a critical role as society’s watchdog.
Recalling the Windhoek Declaration, the UN chief said it strongly underscored the importance of an independent press and led to the global recognition of the day dedicated to defending media freedom.
However, he warned that economic pressures, emerging technologies and deliberate manipulation of information are placing journalism under unprecedented strain.
“When access to reliable information erodes, mistrust takes root. When public debate is distorted, social cohesion weakens. And when journalism is undermined, crises become far more difficult to prevent and resolve,” he said.
He further stressed the broader implications of weakening press freedom.
“All freedom depends on press freedom. Without it, there can be no human rights, no sustainable development, and no peace,” Guterres added.
The UN chief also called for urgent action to protect journalists, noting that media practitioners often become primary targets in times of conflict and political tension.
“People often say that in war, truth is the first casualty. But far too frequently, the first casualties are the journalists who risk everything to report that truth, not only in war, but wherever those in power fear scrutiny,” he said.
Guterres pointed out that journalists across the world face increasing threats, including censorship, surveillance, legal harassment and even death.
“Across the globe, media workers risk censorship, surveillance, legal harassment, and even death,” he stated.
He further observed a disturbing rise in the number of journalists killed in recent years, noting that many are deliberately targeted, particularly in conflict zones.
The UN Secretary-General, therefore, urged governments and stakeholders to intensify efforts toward ensuring accountability and creating a safer environment where truth can be reported without fear.
