The UN agency Unesco has investigated the situation of journalists who cover demonstrations around the world and tells about the most common approaches used to complicate their work.
These include surveillance, harassment, violence, shootings with deadly or non-lethal ammunition, detention, abduction and sabotage of equipment.
In 2015, journalists were hit by this type of obstacle at 15 different demonstrations around the world, carried out by police and security forces.
In 2019, the figure was twice as high.
The report shows that journalists were hindered in 32 different demonstrations.
Predicts more attacks
The large number of demonstrations during the first half of 2020 makes Unesco fear that the figure will rise above.
UNESCO Director-General Audrey Azoulay is concerned about the development.
The figures show that much greater efforts are needed.
We call on the international community and all relevant authorities to ensure that the fundamental rights of journalists are upheld, ”he said in a press release.
Audrey Azoulay is supported by the organization European federation of journalists (EFJ).
"The report indicates that a new threshold has been exceeded, where the threat to freedom of the press and expression is increasing.
A development that is ongoing in all parts of the world, including Europe ", it is written in a comment.