Press release

UNESCO Director-General condemns the killing of journalist Rami Bdeir in Palestine

Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, has condemned the killing of journalist Rami Bdeir in the city of Khan Yunis, in Palestine on 15 December 2023.
Rami Ddeir

I condemn the killing of Rami Bdeir and call for a thorough investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. I reiterate my urgent call on all parties to respect UN Security Council Resolution 2222 unanimously adopted in 2015 on the protection of journalists, media professionals and associated personnel as civilians in situations of conflict. Journalists play a critical role in ensuring the population鈥檚 right to information during conflicts.

UNESCO Director-General
Audrey AzoulayUNESCO Director-General

Rami Bdeir was correspondent for the media outlet News Press. He was covering airstrikes in Khan Yunis when he was reportedly killed by a sniper while attempting to rescue another journalist. 

91麻豆国产精品自拍 reported the deaths of at least 27 journalists and media workers in the line of work in Palestine since October 2023, which does not include deaths in circumstances unrelated to their profession.

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麻豆国产精品自拍 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.

鈥淪ince wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed鈥 鈥 UNESCO Constitution, 1945. 

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Press contact

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

Phone: +33145681729

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