Media deaths in war zones
Through harrowing press reports and graphic television coverage millions of people around the world are constantly being reminded of the horrors of the Gaza-Israeli war and the conflict in Ukraine. But how many of the global audience appreciate the fact that increasing numbers of journalists and photographers are giving their lives in pursuit of the truth?
Sadly, media deaths are a tragic consequence of hostilities now being played out in the Middle East and Eastern Europe– tragedies which are being highlighted by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), which reports that since the start of the war in Gaza at least 95 journalists and media workers from Palestine, Israel and Lebanon have been killed. Many others have been injured or are missing. In total, worldwide, 120 media personnel were killed during 2023.
The toll so far this year is thirteen.
The IFJ is now appealing for donations towards its Safety Fund, an example of journalist-to-journalist solidarity, providing relief to those in danger and need around the world. To donate to the IFJ Safety Fund, click here.
It is rallying support for urgent aid, safety gear and specialised equipment.
IFJ member Tony Adams, who is chair of the Birmingham & Coventry branch of the National Union of Journalists, said: “Now, more than ever, our support and solidarity are crucial. Our fallen comrades have paid the ultimate price and many more lives are at stake during the crisis.”
Tony, who is also chair of the NUJ Black Members Council, added: “Such brave individuals are the lifeline between the harsh reality on the ground and a potential media blackout.”
Meanwhile, with Prince William backing calls for an end to the fighting in Gaza as soon as possible, the president of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine, Sergiy Tomilenko, has spoken about the need to raise more funds in a war that rages on, despite vanishing from many international headlines.
He told the IFJ that journalists on the ground were urgently in need of additional safety equipment – bulletproof vests, helmets and tactical first-aid kits, but they were also requesting psychological support.
He added: “The war has destroyed the economy including the advertising market which has traditionally been a source of income for the media. Newsrooms lack financial resources, which leads to mass shutdown of publications. There is a lack of technical equipment, which often breaks down as a result of moving, shelling, and intensive exploitation, and it cannot always be repaired. Media most affected are local publications, which worked brilliantly in the first months after the invasion are now looking for long-term grant assistance.”
