New IFJ report: 105 journalists killed while doing their job during 2013

An estimated 105 journalists and media professionals were killed doing their job during 2013 according to new figures released by the International Federation of Journalists.

Syria was the single most dangerous country to operate from last year accounting for 15 deaths, although the Philippines, Iraq, India and Pakistan were also very dangerous places for journalists according to the IFJ.

According to the IFJ: “The media death toll of 2013 confirms the abject failure of governments to hold accountable those who are responsible for violence against journalists, which has entrenched the culture of impunity for attacks on media professionals," the report stresses.

"There is an urgent need for governments to protect and enforce journalists' basic right to life. Governments across the world must take drastic action to stem the bloodbath in media."

The report: In Mortal Danger recommends:

1. Journalists and other media staff shall be properly equipped for all assignments including the provision of first-aid materials, communication tools, adequate transport facilities and where necessary, protective clothing.

2. Media organisations and where appropriate, state authorities shall provide risk assessment training for those journalists and media workers who are likely to be involved in assignments where dangerous conditions prevail or may be reasonably expected.

3. Public authorities shall inform their personnel of the need to respect the rights of journalists and shall instruct them to respect the physical integrity of journalists and media staff while at work.

4. Media organisations shall provide social protection for all staff engaged in journalistic activity outside the normal place of work, including life insurance

5. Media organisations shall provide, free of charge, medical treatment and health care, including costs of recuperation and convalescence, for journalists and media workers who are the victims of injury or illness as a result of their work outside the normal place of work.

6. Media organisations shall protect freelance or part-time employees. They must receive, on an equal basis, the same social protection and access to training and equipment as that made available to fully employed staff.