International Day To End Impunity For Crimes Against Journalists

The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, observed each year on 2 November, is dedicated to calling for accountability for attacks, harassment and killings of journalists worldwide.

History of International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists

In December 2013, the United Nations General Assembly adopted Resolution A/RES/68/163 which proclaimed 2 November as the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. The date was chosen to mark the assassination on 2 November 2013 of two French journalists, Ghislaine Dupont and Claude Verlon, in Mali.

The day builds on earlier advocacy efforts by the International Freedom of Expression Exchange (IFEX) network, which in 2011 had declared 23 November as the “International Day to End Impunity” to mark the 2009 Ampatuan massacre in the Philippines. These initiatives eventually led to a stronger, global call for accountability within the United Nations system.

Why is International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists important?

Journalists serve a pivotal role in informing the public, holding power to account, and enabling transparency. When crimes committed against journalists go unpunished, it creates a chilling effect: journalists may self-censor or avoid investigating sensitive issues, and societies lose vital sources of information.

Despite wide recognition of the problem, impunity remains alarmingly high: global data show that about 85 percent of killings of journalists since 2006 remain unresolved. This lack of justice erodes trust in institutions and weakens democratic foundations around the world.

Journalism helps uncover corruption and human-rights abuses.
Impunity for crimes against journalists undermines rule of law and trust in institutions.
The day provides an opportunity to raise awareness and demand accountability.
It supports the safety of journalists as part of broader protections for freedom of expression.
It encourages states to investigate, prosecute and prevent attacks on media workers.

How to Celebrate (or Observe) International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists

Observing this day can involve both practical and emotional actions. People can attend or organise events, share information about specific cases of journalists at risk or killed, and advocate for legal and policy changes in their countries. It is also a time to reflect on the courage of journalists and the sacrifices many have made.

Together we can support press freedom by promoting safe conditions for media workers, insisting on transparency in investigations into attacks, and amplifying the voices of survivors and families of journalists.

Share stories of journalists who were killed or targeted because of their work.
Use social-media hashtags like #EndImpunity or #IDEI to raise awareness.
Encourage your local or national government to adopt and enforce protections for journalists.
Attend or organise a panel, webinar or educational event on journalist safety.
Support organisations working on media safety and accountability for crimes against journalists.