Press release

UNESCO Director-General condemns killing of journalist Gastón Medina in Peru

Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, has condemned the killing of journalist Gastón Medina in Ica, Peru, on 20 January.
UNESCO observatory of killed journalists

I condemn the killing of Gastón Medina and call for a transparent investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. Impunity for such crimes must not be tolerated as it only emboldens those who seek to silence journalists.

UNESCO Director-General
Audrey AzoulayUNESCO Director-General

Gastón Medina was the director of TV channel Cadena Sur TV. He was reportedly shot dead in front of his home in the city of Ica, Peru. He was known for his coverage of corruption-related issues, and had in previous years received death threats in connection to his work. 

UNESCO promotes the  through global awareness-raising, capacity building and by coordinating the implementation of the  on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.

About UNESCO

With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, 91鶹Ʒ offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay.

“Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed” – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.

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UNESCO Director-General condemns killing of journalist Gastón Medina in Peru