A gathering of global researchers in Oslo, Norway, last week was the occasion for UNESCO to announce its latest report on the safety of journalists and the problem of impunity.
Organised by the Media and Conflict study group at the Oslo Metropolitan University, MEKK, the conference drew academics from more than 30 countries, many of whom presented research papers about journalism safety.
Conference co-convenor, Prof Kristin Skare Orgeret, explained that along with her colleague Roy Krøvel the event was timed, like its four consecutive precedents, to link to the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists.
The conference was also held in conjunction with the Fritt Ord Foundation and with support from Norway's National Commission for UNESCO and the university's Digital Journalism Research Group. Some 40 research papers were presented, and a selection will be published in a special edition of a research journal.
"There have been close to 500 killings of journalists worldwide over the five year period 2014 - 2018", said Guy Berger, Director for Freedom of Expression and Media Development, at UNESCO.
He was presenting the findings of new UNESCO research under the label of the report on World Trends in Freedom of Expression and Media Development. Oslomet is a partner with UNESCO in promoting discussion of the World Trends Report around the world, thanks to support of the Norwegian Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
A special "In-Focus edition" of this report, titled "Intensified Attacks; New Defences", will be launched on 18 November at the UNESCO General Conference.
