The All Pakistan Journalists Association (APJA) has strongly condemned the ongoing violence targeting journalists in Palestine and called upon world powers to take resolute action to prevent further crimes against journalists.
The APJA, a dedicated organization committed to championing the rights and safety of journalists and media professionals, stated this while marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists yesterday (Nov. 02).
“The global community is currently observing a distressing scenario, as a significant number of journalists in Palestine have sadly met tragic ends. What’s even more worrisome is the systematic removal of information about these fatalities from social media platforms, obscuring the harsh challenges faced by journalists,” an APJA statement notes.
“Rana Rizwan, Chairman of APJA, President Zaheer Alam, Secretary General Abid Chaudhry, and other distinguished officials of the association jointly express their concern. They underscore that Pakistan is currently ranked among the most perilous countries for journalists. It is imperative to emphasize that crimes against journalists must cease without delay,” it adds.
The statement emphasises that “in this era of advanced technology and global connectivity, the deliberate targeting of journalists is an assault on the very essence of a free and independent press. Journalists must be able to carry out their vital work without the constant threat to their lives and well-being.”
Noting that the role of journalists in upholding democracy and the right to information cannot be overstated, the APJA calls upon world powers, international organizations, and concerned individuals to take immediate action to end crimes against journalists, ensure their safety, and safeguard press freedom.
