The ‘Journalists Under Fire’ event at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva highlighted the critical role of independent media in Sudan amidst escalating violence against journalists. Key speakers, including Netherlands Human Rights Ambassador Wim Geerts, stressed the need for international support for media outlets like Dabanga. The event also addressed the grave human rights violations prevailing in the country, emphasizing the urgent necessity for reliable information access.
The event titled ‘Journalists Under Fire’ showcased the vital importance of independent media amidst the ongoing conflict in Sudan during a high-level meeting at the 58th session of the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva. Speakers highlighted the increasing violence against journalists and the critical role media plays in informing the public about the humanitarian crisis afflicting millions in Sudan.
In an interview with Kamal Elsadig, editor-in-chief of Dabanga – Radio TV Online, Netherlands Human Rights Ambassador Wim Geerts emphasized the necessity of independent media in wartime. He stated, “Having independent media, especially in situations of war and conflict, is crucial…it’s about receiving objective information.” Geerts acknowledged Dabanga as a critical source of reliable news in Sudan, deserving robust support from the international community.
Ambassador Geerts further stressed the right of Sudanese citizens to access information amid egregious human rights violations. He shared that there are concerning reports from a fact-finding mission highlighting the grim realities, including rampant famine affecting innocent lives. “What we see in Sudan is gross violations of human rights,” Geerts noted, emphasizing the importance of media in revealing the truth of ongoing conflicts.
Ruth Kronenberg, Executive Director of Free Press Unlimited, remarked that the press—once a symbol of safety—is now in danger of being targeted. She highlighted the alarming increase in violence against journalists, which not only threatens their lives but also obstructs access to crucial information for the public.
Kamal Elsadig reiterated that the struggle in Sudan transcends a mere armed conflict; it constitutes a fight for the truth. He disclosed the devastating impact on Sudanese media, with 90 percent of outlets ceasing operations since the war began. The statistics are harrowing, with 23 journalists reported killed and documented violations against media entities reaching 509 since the conflict’s inception.
The ‘Journalists Under Fire’ event united voices from conflict zones such as Gaza, Ukraine, and Sudan, advocating for the protection of journalists. This gathering underscored the essential role of independent media as a lifeline during turbulent times and highlighted the urgent need for international support in safeguarding the field of journalism.
The ‘Journalists Under Fire’ event underscored the fragile state of independent media amidst conflict in Sudan, emphasizing the necessity of international support. With numerous reports of violence against journalists, it is evident that unfettered access to information is vital for the Sudanese public. The dire statistics regarding media operation cessation and journalist fatalities further illustrate the critical need for protective measures to ensure the continuation of independent journalism in these challenging circumstances.
Original Source: www.dabangasudan.org
