New York, USA (February 12, 2025) – The year 2024 has been recorded as the deadliest year for journalists in recent history, with at least 124 reporters killed, according to a report by the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ). The report, released on February 12, highlights that nearly 70 percent of these deaths were attributed to Israel’s actions during the Israeli-Hamas war.
Surge in Journalist Killings
The CPJ report indicates a 22 percent increase in journalist killings compared to 2023, reflecting surging levels of international conflict, political unrest, and criminality worldwide. This marks the highest number of journalist fatalities since CPJ began keeping records over three decades ago, with journalists murdered across 18 different countries.
Impact of the Israeli-Hamas War
A total of 85 journalists were killed in the Israeli-Hamas war, with the CPJ stating that all these deaths were at the hands of the Israeli military. Among the deceased, 82 were Palestinians. The report underscores the unprecedented impact of the Gaza conflict on journalists and the deterioration of global norms for protecting media workers.
Global Hotspots for Journalist Killings
Sudan and Pakistan recorded the second-highest number of journalist fatalities, with six each. In Mexico, five journalists were killed, highlighting persistent flaws in the country’s mechanisms for protecting reporters. Haiti also saw the murder of two journalists amid widespread violence and political instability.
Other countries where journalist deaths were reported include Myanmar, Mozambique, India, and Iraq.
Vulnerability of Freelancers
Freelancers were among the most vulnerable, accounting for 43 of the killings in 2024. The lack of resources and support for freelance journalists has made them particularly susceptible to violence.
Outlook for 2025
The CPJ report paints a grim picture for 2025, with six journalists already killed in the first weeks of the year. The organization’s CEO, Jodie Ginsberg, emphasized the heightened dangers facing journalists today and called for stronger protections and accountability measures to safeguard media workers worldwide.
As the international community grapples with these alarming trends, the need for concerted efforts to protect journalists and uphold press freedom has never been more urgent.