It’s hard to believe that yet another year has passed since the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff was first observed on March 25th. This day serves as a reminder of the dangers faced by journalists, media workers, and human rights defenders around the world, who put their lives on the line to bring us the truth.
The significance of this day cannot be overstated, as it sheds light on the ongoing threats and attacks faced by those who dedicate their lives to exposing corruption, oppression, and human rights violations. Unfortunately, these individuals often face retaliation and persecution for their brave efforts, with many being detained or even gone missing.
One example that comes to mind is the case of freelance journalist Austin Tice, who was abducted while reporting in Syria in 2012 and has not been heard from since. His family has been tirelessly advocating for his release and raising awareness of his situation, but unfortunately, he is just one of the many journalists who have gone missing while on assignment in conflict zones.
But it’s not just journalists who are at risk. Media workers, including camera operators, fixers, and translators, are also targeted for their involvement in bringing news to the public. In 2020 alone, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) documented 30 media workers who were killed in line of duty and 274 who were imprisoned.
This day is not just about remembering those who are currently detained or missing, but also about standing in solidarity with their families and loved ones who are left behind. It is a reminder that press freedom and the safety of media workers are vital for a functioning democracy and an informed society.
One positive example of the impact of this day is the release of Reuters journalists Wa Lone and Kyaw Soe Oo in Myanmar in 2019. The two journalists were arrested and imprisoned for their reporting on the persecution of the Rohingya minority, and their release was seen as a sign of hope for press freedom in the country.
This year, the theme for the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff is “Information as a Public Good.” This theme highlights the importance of access to accurate and reliable information, especially during times of crisis such as the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. It also emphasizes the crucial role that media workers play in providing this information to the public.
So, what can we do to show our support and solidarity on this day? One way is to share stories and information about detained and missing staff on social media using the hashtags #MissingVoices and #EndImpunity. We can also donate to organizations such as the CPJ or Reporters Without Borders, who provide support and advocacy for media workers in danger.
Most importantly, we can use our voices to demand justice and accountability for those who have been detained or gone missing. By standing in solidarity, we can send a powerful message to those who seek to silence the truth – that the world is watching and we will not forget those who put their lives on the line for the sake of free press and access to information.
In conclusion, the International Day of Solidarity with Detained and Missing Staff is a day to reflect on the sacrifices made by media workers and the importance of protecting press freedom. It’s a day to honor those who have been detained or gone missing and to stand in solidarity with their families. Let’s use this day to raise awareness, demand justice, and send a clear message that the safety and freedom of media workers must be protected at all costs.
– Benjamin Ibrahim, a Retired Permanent Secretary, writes from Lokoja.
