In 2020, 65 journalists were killed in targeted attacks, bomb attacks and crossfire incidents in 16 countries.

Since 1990, 2658 journalists have been murdered.

At the end of 2020, at least 274 journalists were in jail for their journalism. Sixty-six journalists were missing.

The Media, Entertainment and Arts Alliance released their annual Report on Press Freedom last week. 

Adorned with confronting cover art, the report is damning in its assessment of the state of journalism in Australia and around the world. 

Some of the images depict violent incidents and injuries. If you want to read the full report, you can do so here. 

MEAA Chief Executive Paul Murphy, in his foreword to the report, says: 

“Australia’s reputation on press freedom is tarnished. Now, journalists face very dangerous threats to their health and safety at work. Urgent action is needed to ensure journalists can carry out their duties to our communities free from abuse, harassment, arrests and violence. 

“There is no time to waste.”

Issues covered in the report range from the assaults on journalists covering protests, to the rise of cyber abuse experienced predominantly by female journalists. The report is full of harrowing stories, told by journalists who are more used to telling the stories of others. For them to have to speak up and draw attention to their own hardships must be incredibly difficult, and we encourage all readers of Megaphone Journal, who appreciate the bravery and skill of good storytelling, to read this report.

The Media and Arts Alliance released their annual Report on Press Freedom last week. Adorned with confronting cover art, the report is damning in its assessment of the state of journalism in Australia and around the world.