The Private Newspapers and Online News PublPRINPAGishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) is demanding an end to impunity against journalists across the world.
This comes as it joins the global community in commemorating the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists. This day holds immense significance as it serves as a solemn reminder of the perils journalists face worldwide in their pursuit of reporting the truth. It is also a day to honour and remember those journalists who have paid the ultimate price or endured harassment, intimidation, imprisonment, or violence while carrying out their journalistic duties.
Even though Ghana has made commendable strides in supporting press freedom and maintaining an independent press, PRINPAG recognizes that challenges persist, particularly concerning acts of violence and impunity against journalists within the country.
In a statement issued in commemoration of the day, PRINPAG said it remains resolute in its unwavering belief that journalists must be able to execute their constitutional mandate without the looming spectre of persecution or harm.
PRINPAG also called on the government, civil society members, and the international community to unequivocally condemn all forms of violence and aggression against journalists, especially within the borders of Ghana.
“It is vital to promote a safe and enabling environment for journalists to exercise their professional duties freely. This includes implementing effective legal frameworks, ensuring swift and unbiased investigations into any crimes against journalists, and holding the perpetrators accountable.”
Here’s the full statement:
International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists 2023 – Statement from PRINPAG
Kokomlemle – Accra: The Private Newspapers and Online News Publishers Association of Ghana (PRINPAG) joins the global community in observing the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists which is observed on November 2 every year.
As part of our commitment to press freedom and the protection of journalists, PRINPAG highlights the importance of ending any form of impunity for crimes targeting media personnel.
This significant day serves as a reminder of the dangers journalists face worldwide while performing their duties to report the truth. It is an occasion to remember and honour the journalists who have lost their lives or faced harassment, intimidation, imprisonment, or violence in the line of duty.
Ghana has made notable progress in supporting a free and independent press. Nevertheless, we acknowledge that challenges persist, particularly regarding acts of violence and impunity against journalists in Ghana. PRINPAG stands firm in our unwavering belief that journalists must be allowed to carry out their constitutional mandate without fear of persecution or harm.
PRINPAG calls on the Ghanaian government, members of civil society, and the international community to condemn all forms of violence and aggression against journalists, particularly journalists in Ghana. It is vital to promote a safe and enabling environment for journalists to exercise their professional duties freely. This includes implementing effective legal frameworks, ensuring swift and unbiased investigations into any crimes against journalists, and holding the perpetrators accountable.
Furthermore, we urge media organizations, both local and international, to strengthen their support networks and measures to safeguard the safety of journalists. Collaboration between media houses, government institutions, and civil society is crucial in combating impunity and ensuring the safety and well-being of journalists.
On this International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists, PRINPAG reaffirms its commitment to advancing press freedom, protecting journalists, and promoting responsible journalism. We stand united in demanding justice for every journalist whose rights have been violated.
The media’s role in a democratic society cannot be overstated, and it is our collective responsibility to protect those who tirelessly work to ensure the public’s right to information. We call upon everyone to actively promote press freedom and hold accountable those who seek to silence the voices of truth.
