A free and uncensored press is a vital aspect of the fundamental right to free expression. The independent media hold governments to account, facilitate the enjoyment of other fundamental freedoms, and shed light on matters of public interest. The role of the media is vital for democracy and facilitating the public’s right to know. And yet, the profession of journalism is becoming more dangerous and even deadly in more countries throughout the globe. Globally, over the last two decades, more than 2000 journalists have been killed for reporting the news and bringing information to the public. Harassment, intimidation and attacks against journalists and the media has increased worldwide and is seeping into more “democratic” societies as rhetoric against the media has become more amplified and commonplace.

The cycle of harassment oftentimes begins online (and is disproportionately directed at female journalists), but more and more, it moves into the courtroom through judicial harassment aimed at silencing or bankrupting the journalist or media, and the ultimate increasing physical attacks and killings are occurring without accountability. Compounding the problem is the fact that human rights defenders, including lawyers, are the subject of attacks themselves.

Despite numerous important initiatives at the international, regional, and national level, a culture of impunity reigns supreme. In this environment, the role of lawyers and the rule of law is more important than ever, and we must work together to fend against this multi-prong effort to kill the news and its vital role in preserving democracies.