Geneva: The United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Turk, on Friday expressed grave concerns about the safety of journalists in conflict zones, particularly in the Middle East, which he described as the most dangerous region for them. According to Kuwait News Agency, in a statement issued from Geneva marking the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, Turk highlighted the significant loss of life among Palestinian journalists, noting that over 80 percent of journalists' murders go unpunished, especially in areas like Gaza, Ukraine, Sudan, and Myanmar. In 2023, 71 journalists were killed, with 61 killed while on duty and more than 300 others imprisoned. Turk emphasized the increased vulnerability of female journalists and underscored the need for better protection measures. He described journalists as vital "eyewitnesses" in crises and stressed that a free press is essential for democratic societies. He urged governments to take action to protect journalists and en sure accountability for crimes against them.
