The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organisation (UNESCO) has called on civil society groups, intergovernmental organisations, and UN agencies to take the lead in local observances that honour journalists facing risks in their pursuit of truth.
The 2025 edition of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (IDEI) will spotlight the theme: “Chat GBV: Raising Awareness on AI-facilitated Gender-Based Violence against Women Journalists.” The theme underscores growing concerns over the use of artificial intelligence in perpetuating online harassment and abuse targeted at women in journalism, highlighting the urgent need for stronger safeguards and collective action.
In a series of coordination meetings held in September 2025, UNESCO brought together key partners under the United Nations Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity including the UN Network of Focal Points for the Safety of Journalists, the Intergovernmental Working Group, and the International Civil Society Coalition for the Safety of Journalists. The discussions focused on strengthening local engagement, deepening collaboration, and promoting public awareness activities that amplify the message of journalist safety and accountability.
UNESCO encouraged partners to take ownership of the global commemoration by organising public dialogues, awareness campaigns, academic forums, and tribute ceremonies to honour journalists who have been killed or targeted for their work. These initiatives aim to not only recognise their courage but also to galvanise action against impunity.
The UN Plan of Action serves as a coordinated framework aligning the efforts of multiple actors toward ensuring accountability and reinforcing protection mechanisms for journalists worldwide. UNESCO continues to coordinate closely with stakeholders under the Plan, particularly around key advocacy moments like IDEI, to sustain momentum in the fight for press freedom and justice.
During the September meetings, participating partners shared updates on ongoing efforts and discussed new opportunities to strengthen future cooperation in protecting media professionals and advancing global awareness of their safety challenges.
