Amman, May 4, 2024 – In a significant acknowledgment of the immense sacrifices made by Palestinian journalists, Nasser Abu Baker, President of the Palestinian Journalists’ Syndicate (PJS), accepted the prestigious UNESCO prize on behalf of his colleagues. The award, presented during UNESCO’s World Press Freedom Day conference in Chile, bestowed upon Gaza’s journalists the esteemed Guillermo Cano prize for their unwavering commitment to press freedom in the face of perilous circumstances.
Mauricio Weibel, chair of the prizes’ international jury, underscored the courageous efforts of Gaza’s journalists, stating, “As humanity, we have a huge debt to their courage and commitment to freedom of expression.” These sentiments were echoed by Audrey Azoulay, UNESCO’s director-general, who emphasized the importance of collective action to safeguard journalists worldwide and enable them to continue their vital work of informing and investigating.
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) nominated its affiliate, the PJS, for the award, which includes a $25,000 prize from UNESCO. The recognition comes at a time when Gaza’s journalists face unprecedented challenges, with over 100 media workers losing their lives since October 7th in Israeli attacks. The mortality rate, exceeding ten percent, underscores the grave dangers journalists confront daily in their pursuit of truth.
Nasser Abu Baker highlighted the dire circumstances in Palestine, where conveying the truth often comes at the cost of journalists’ lives and the safety of their families. With media institutions destroyed and foreign journalists excluded from the enclave, Gaza’s reporters continue their vital work under extraordinarily difficult conditions.
The Guillermo Cano prize, named after the Colombian journalist assassinated in 1986, serves as a poignant reminder of the ongoing threats faced by journalists worldwide. It is a testament to the resilience and bravery of Gaza’s journalists, who persevere despite the profound personal losses and hardships they endure in their quest for truth and justice.
