Colombia’s president to create direct communication channel with RSF and FLIP on cases of violence against journalists

During this meeting, RSF and FLIP pointed out the dire consequences of violence against journalists and impunity, which lead to the emergence of regions with little or no media reporting, depriving the population of its right to news and information. They also warned that comments by senior officials vilifying media personnel put journalists in danger and contribute to the spread of violence against them across the country.

 Two journalists killed, 330 press freedom violations since January

Since the start of the year, RSF has registered two journalists killed in Colombia in connection with out their reporting. while FLIP has registered 330 other press freedom violations, including 133 cases of threats, 43 verbal attacks and 11 physical attacks. Of these attacks, 81 were perpetrated by government officials and 69 by armed groups, which highlights the complexity of combating this growing phenomenon in Colombia, one of the most dangerous countries in Latin America for journalists.

The entire country is affected by this violence. According to FLIP’s data, attacks by armed groups have been carried out in 21 of the country’s 32 departments. Armed groups put pressure on journalists, intimidate them and try to influence the editorial policies of media outlets. The probability of journalists being targeted, obstructed or forced to remain silent increases when turf wars break out between armed groups.

These participating in this meeting with President Petro included RSF Latin America advocacy coordinator Bia Barbosa, FLIP executive director Jonathan Bock, members of FLIP’s board, UNP director Augusto Rodrigues Ballesteros, information and communications technology minister Mauricio Lizcano, presidential office administrative director Laura Sarabia and representatives from the communications secretariat and defence ministry.

Colombia is ranked 119th out of 180 countries in RSF’s 2024 World Press Freedom Index. 

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Publish date : 2024-08-22 01:57:00

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