The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) has reported that 2024 was another devastating year for journalists and media professionals worldwide, with 104 journalists killed in the line of duty as of December 10, 2024. More than half of these deaths occurred in Gaza, marking a concerning escalation in risks faced by media workers in conflict zones.

For the second consecutive year, the Middle East remains the deadliest region for journalists, with 66 deaths reported in 2024.

• Asia recorded 20 deaths, a sharp increase compared to 12 in 2023.

• Africa reported 8 fatalities, while 6 journalists were killed in Latin America.

• In Europe, the ongoing war in Ukraine resulted in 4 journalist deaths, though Europe continues to be the safest continent for media professionals.

The IFJ report also highlights a significant rise in journalist incarcerations. In 2024, 520 journalists were imprisoned globally, a steep increase from 427 in 2023 and 375 in 2022. China remains the largest jailer of journalists with 135 imprisoned, followed by Israel with 59 journalists detained.

FJ General Secretary Anthony Bellanger stressed the urgent need to protect press freedom and safeguard journalists globally: “These grim statistics once again reveal how fragile press freedom is and how dangerous journalism has become. The public’s need for information is vital, especially as authoritarian regimes expand worldwide. Greater vigilance is required for our profession. We call on the United Nations to take immediate action and adopt an International Convention for the protection of journalists to stop the annual deaths and injuries."

The Cyprus Journalists' Association issued a statement honoring the 104 journalists who lost their lives while on duty in 2024. “The Board of the Cyprus Journalists’ Association bows in memory of our 104 colleagues who were killed in the line of duty this year. We also express our sympathy and solidarity with the 520 journalists who remain imprisoned across the globe.”