IFJ Highlights Global Media Coverage Amidst Press Freedom concerns, Gaza Journalist Deaths
BRUSSELS (Archyde.com) – The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has released it’s weekly compilation of news articles referencing the organization, spotlighting a period marked by significant concerns over press freedom and the safety of journalists, particularly in Gaza. The IFJ’s report covers international media coverage from April 12 to april 18,2025,revealing a global landscape where journalists face increasing threats and restrictions.A central focus of the week’s coverage was the escalating crisis in Gaza, where the IFJ and numerous media outlets have condemned the killing of journalists.Several articles highlighted the death of Palestinian photojournalist Fatima Hassouna, who was killed in an Israeli airstrike alongside ten members of her family. Hassouna had been selected to feature in a documentary at the Cannes Film Festival, bringing her story and the realities of life in Gaza to a global audience. Her death sparked outrage and renewed calls for greater protection of journalists in conflict zones.
French press organizations and journalist unions have been particularly vocal, decrying what they termed an “unprecedented massacre” of journalists in Gaza. they organized die-in protests in Paris to condemn the killings and demand greater accountability for attacks on media personnel. The IFJ itself has repeatedly called for independent investigations into the deaths of journalists in Gaza and for measures to ensure their safety.
Beyond the immediate crisis in Gaza, the IFJ’s report also highlighted broader concerns about press freedom in various regions:
azerbaijan: The IFJ and the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) condemned the Azerbaijani government’s “harsh policies against critical media.” These policies reportedly include arbitrary arrests, intimidation, and restrictions on access to details.
Pakistan (AJK Region): Reports from the Kashmir Times described journalism as “under siege” in the AJK region, citing restrictions on reporting and harassment of journalists.
Russia: Several articles documented the ongoing crackdown on journalists linked to the Navalny group,with reports of arrests and imprisonment.
Vanuatu: The Prime Minister of Vanuatu criticized a post-earthquake documentary for allegedly promoting “foreign media bias,” raising concerns about government interference in media coverage.
Haiti: Concerns were raised about the safety and freedom of the press in Haiti, with one article describing the “Haytian press under the grapeshot.”
Despite these challenges, the IFJ’s report also highlighted positive initiatives aimed at supporting journalists:
Ghana: Articles in the Ghanaian Times emphasized the importance of prioritizing mental health and wellness for African journalists, recognizing the psychological toll of reporting in challenging environments. Uganda: The 60th UAJ Training for Young Journalists opened with a strong call for a ceasefire in Gaza, signaling a commitment to promoting peace and conflict resolution through journalism.
Australia: A new Australian film,”The Correspondent,” retells the story of Peter Greste,an Al Jazeera journalist who was imprisoned in Egypt,raising awareness of the challenges faced by journalists working in authoritarian regimes.
The IFJ’s weekly roundup serves as a crucial reminder of the dangers faced by journalists around the world and the importance of defending press freedom as a cornerstone of democracy. The organization continues to advocate for the protection of journalists,the investigation of attacks against them,and the promotion of a safe and enabling environment for media to operate freely.
