Over 100 journalists killed this year, half of them in Gaza, says journo federation

By Melike Pala

ISTANBUL (AA) - The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) reported Tuesday that 104 journalists and media workers were killed in 2024, with more than half of them killed in Gaza amid ongoing Israeli attacks.

The IFJ’s report said that Gaza became one of the “most dangerous places” for journalists, with 55 fatalities.

Since January, 104 media workers have been killed globally, including 12 women.

The IFJ called 2024 the “second deadliest year” for journalists since it began tracking deaths in 1990.

- Mideast sees highest death toll

The Middle East reported the highest number of journalist deaths, with 66 media workers killed in attacks.

The report noted that 55 Palestinians, six Lebanese, and a Syrian journalist were killed in Gaza and Lebanon.

Since the Israeli war on Gaza began on Oct. 7, 2023, the number of Palestinian journalists killed has reached 138, making Palestine one of the deadliest countries for journalists, after Iraq, the Philippines, and Mexico.

Following the Middle East, Asia-Pacific reported 20 journalist deaths, Africa had eight, the Americas six, and Europe four.

The global journalists' union also reported that 520 journalists are currently imprisoned worldwide, marking a significant increase over previous years.

IFJ Secretary-General Anthony Bellanger called on the UN to adopt a binding treaty to protect journalists, citing the growing risks to press freedom amid rising global authoritarianism.

*Writing by Beril Canakci