Global Mechanisms Must Strengthen Protections for Journalists
According to the English section of webangah News Agency, the United Nations has reaffirmed journalists’ critical role in defending human rights, stressing that violence against media representatives is unacceptable.
As armed conflicts escalate worldwide, journalist safety is not only an ethical imperative but also a fundamental issue under international law.
Pyotr Chuvakhin, a law professor at Russia’s MGIMO University, highlighted international law’s role in protecting journalists: “International legal frameworks provide essential safeguards for journalists’ safe operations, especially in conflict areas.” He cited key instruments including:
- The Universal Declaration of Human Rights (1948)
- The International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights (1966)
- The Geneva Conventions (1949) and Additional Protocols (1977)
Experts also referenced UN Security Council Resolution 1738 (2006) and the UN Plan of Action on Journalist Safety (2012), which mandate protection for media personnel during conflicts.
Helia Dotaghi, a researcher at Tehran University, noted: “The core issue isn’t lacking legal provisions but enforcing them effectively.” Chuvakhin concurred, observing that international laws are frequently disregarded during wars.
regional institutions are taking action.Homa Sedighi, an Indian strategic affairs analyst, reported that the African Commission has appointed a Special Rapporteur for freedom of expression. She praised Brazil’s National observatory on Violence Against Journalists as a successful model.
Lucas Liraz, a Brazilian journalist-analyst with BRICS TV proposed: “BRICS could pioneer new security mechanisms-specialized institutions, multilateral agreements, and autonomous monitoring systems-within a multipolar media framework respecting national sovereignty.”
Mira Trada, head of the BRICS Journalists Association advocated establishing:
- A dedicated investigative body for violations against journalists
- A support fund for affected reporters
- Trained security protocols for military personnel interacting with journalists
