68 journalists killed in 2022 worldwide
Annual figures from the International Federation of Journalists report deaths spanning continents, with Ukraine the most dangerous for journalists in 2022.
The IFJ has revealed more journalists and media workers were killed around the world this year, than in 2021 (47). The findings published in its Killed List compiled annually, highlights the dangers facing journalists globally, with those responsible for crimes committed often evading justice.
Russia’s invasion of Ukraine saw journalists reporting from war zones, and Ukraine recorded the highest number of journalists’ deaths, with 12 murdered this year. Violence in Colombia led to the deaths of four journalists and media workers, and in Mexico, 11 deaths were documented as criminal organisations continue to wield power.
In Africa, four journalists were killed in Chad and Somalia marking the lowest number of murders among the five regions recorded in the IFJ’s list.
Globally, media professionals have been targeted for various reasons including their efforts to expose criminal behaviour by gangs, environmental harm and corruption. These dangers are clear in Brazil, where Dom Phillips was one of two journalists murdered in the country.
Five journalists lost their lives in Pakistan, and in the Philippines four media workers were murdered in the first year of Ferdinand "Bongbong" Romualdez Marcos Jr’s presidency.
The number of journalists’ deaths in the Middle East and Arab World rose from three to five, and included the shooting of Shireen Abu Akleh by Israeli forces.
The NUJ joins the IFJ in mourning the loss of colleagues killed for their work and supports the IFJ’s call for an International Convention dedication to the protection of journalists and media professionals.
Anthony Bellanger, IFJ general secretary, said:
“The surge in the killings of journalists and other media workers is a grave cause of concern and yet another wake up call for governments across the globe to take action in the defence of journalism, one of the key pillars of democracy.”
He continued:
“The failure to act will only embolden those who seek to suppress the free flow of information and undermine the ability of people to hold their leaders to account, including in ensuring that those with power and influence do not stand in the way of open and inclusive societies.”
Access the IFJ’s annual list.
Access the 2021 list