Sydney, May 3: Palestinian journalists covering the ongoing crisis in Gaza have been honored with the 2024 UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize.
The award ceremony is scheduled for May 2, in conjunction with the World Press Freedom Conference in Santiago, Chile.
Mauricio Weibel, Chair of the International Jury of media professionals, highlighted the significant contribution of these journalists under extreme conditions. “In these times of darkness and hopelessness, we wish to share a strong message of solidarity and recognition to those Palestinian journalists who are covering this crisis in such dramatic circumstances.
As humanity, we have a huge debt to their courage and commitment to freedom of expression,” said Weibel.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay also praised the journalists’ bravery and emphasized the organization’s ongoing commitment to journalistic safety.
“Each year, the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano Prize pays tribute to the courage of journalists facing difficult and dangerous circumstances.
Once again this year, the Prize reminds us of the importance of collective action to ensure that journalists around the world can continue to carry out their essential work to inform and investigate,” Azoulay remarked.
The recognition comes against the backdrop of severe challenges faced by journalists in Gaza.
Since October 7, 2023, UNESCO has condemned the deaths of 26 journalists and media workers in the region, and is reviewing additional cases.
Beyond the immediate crisis, UNESCO continues its broader mission to support journalists worldwide, especially in conflict and crisis zones.
The organization is providing journalists in Gaza with essential supplies, establishing safe working spaces, and offering emergency grants in Ukraine and Sudan.
Efforts also include distributing protective equipment and training in Haiti, supporting independent media in Afghanistan, and promoting global awareness and training through the implementation of the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.
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