Palestinian journalists reporting on the conflict in Gaza have been honored with the UNESCO World Press Freedom Prize, announced by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO).
It was revealed that the journalists were awarded the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize for 2024 during a ceremony held in Chile on Thursday night.
Chair of the jury Mauricio Weibel emphasized the significance of the award, stating that in these times of darkness and despair, they wished to send a powerful message of solidarity and recognition to Palestinian journalists covering this crisis under these tragic circumstances.
He continued to express that they owed them a great deal for their courage and commitment to freedom of expression.
Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of UNESCO, highlighted the bravery of Palestinian journalists amidst difficult and dangerous conditions, describing the award as a tribute to their courage.
She emphasized the importance of collective action to ensure that journalists worldwide can continue their essential work of informing and investigating.
According to the Committee to Protect Journalists, based in New York City, since the outbreak of the conflict on October 7th, at least 97 journalists and media workers have been killed, including more than 34,000 Palestinians in Gaza and the West Bank, and 1,200 Israelis.
