Press release

UNESCO Director-General condemns the killing of journalist Luis Alonso Teruel in Honduras

Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, has condemned the killing of journalist Luis Alonso Teruel in the town of Atima, in Santa Bárbara province, Honduras, on 28 January 2024.
Observatory map

I condemn the killing of Luis Alonso Teruel. I call on the authorities to thoroughly investigate his killing to determine its motives and ensure the perpetrators are brought to justice. Environmental reporters are essential for providing information to communities affected by climate disruption and other environmental challenges, and must be protected.

UNESCO Director-General
Audrey AzoulayUNESCO Director-General

Alonso Teruel hosted a political program on the local channel Pecaligüe TV, as well as doing reports on deforestation in the area. He was reportedly intercepted and shot multiple times by gunmen as he travelled with his son in his vehicle in the northeast town of Atima.

UNESCO promotes the safety of journalists through global awareness-raising, capacity building and by coordinating the implementation of the  on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity. The 2024 edition of the World Press Freedom Day will be dedicated to raise awareness on the relationship between press freedom and the environmental crisis, including the safety of journalists reporting on environmental issues. 

Press contact

clare_o'hagan
Clare
O'Hagan
Senior Press Officer (Artificial Intelligence, Emerging Technologies, Freedom of Expression, Journalist Safety)

Phone: +33145681729