Around the world press freedom is under serious threat. Democracies are failing to protect journalists. This year alone 40 journalists have lost their lives, 25 of whom were targeted for their work. Impunity for crimes against journalists remains shockingly high, further fuelling the cycle of violence. At the same time, scores of journalists are in prison globally for their work.

Moreover, journalists are also facing increased online harassment and intimidation. Female journalists face especially severe threats online, often of a violent sexual nature. On the other hand, there’s a trend to enact laws in the name of national security and fighting fake news that stifle press freedom.

The International Press Institute (IPI), a global network of editors, media executives and journalists, in cooperation with the Al Jazeera Media Network and the Permanent Missions of Austria, Greece and the United Kingdom, is organizing this roundtable discussion with the members of the UN General Assembly’s Third Committee to highlight the shrinking space for press freedom around the world and the increasing threat to the safety of journalists, spurred by rampant impunity.

Speakers:
John Daniszewski, Vice President, The Associated Press; IPI Special Representative for Journalist Safety
Michael Slackman, Foreign Editor, The New York Times
Giles Trendle, Managing Director, Al Jazeera English
Barbara Trionfi, Executive Director, IPI