Haiti, Israel Top Global Impunity Index for Journalists

The Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) has released its 2024 Global Impunity Index, ranking Haiti and Israel as the top offenders in failing to hold accountable those who murder journalists. Israel's inclusion in the index for the first time is attributed to the targeted killings of five journalists during the ongoing conflict in Gaza and Lebanon, with investigations into at least 10 other potential targeted killings. Haiti's position as the worst offender is linked to rampant gang violence and a weakened judiciary, resulting in numerous unresolved journalist murders. The report reveals that globally, around 80% of journalist killings remain unsolved, creating an environment where attacks on the press are more likely. This lack of justice is seen as a significant threat to press freedom, prompting calls for awareness and accountability from media organizations. The CPJ emphasizes that without accountability, journalism faces existential threats and impunity persists, further endangering journalists' safety.