United States: Women Press Freedom Denounces Attack on Yvonne Murray During Live Broadcast Ahead of U.S. Elections
November 4, 2024 - United States, Georgia
Women Press Freedom condemns the unacceptable violation of press rights experienced by RTÉ journalist Yvonne Murray during her live broadcast from Georgia ahead of the U.S. elections. While reporting on the critical electoral contest between former President Donald Trump and current Vice President Kamala Harris, Yvonne faced an alarming interruption when someone off-camera attempted to confiscate her equipment, despite her clear indication that she was live on air.
This incident not only undermines the integrity of journalistic work but also illustrates the growing hostility towards journalists covering political events. The attempts to silence Yvonne and disrupt her reporting are deeply concerning and highlight the challenges that journalists face in their pursuit of truth and transparency.
Our thorough report indicates that a second Trump presidency would lead to unparalleled suppression of journalists and a dismantling of press freedom. It is crucial for journalists to take a stand now—not only for their own rights but also for the preservation of an independent press and the principles of democracy.
We stand in solidarity with Yvonne Murray and all journalists who are dedicated to informing the public, especially during pivotal moments like elections. It is imperative that political organizations and their supporters respect the rights of journalists and allow them to perform their duties without fear of harassment or intimidation.
Women Press Freedom calls for an environment where the press can operate freely, ensuring that journalists are able to report on important issues without interference or threats. We urge all stakeholders to reaffirm their commitment to protecting press freedoms and supporting the vital role that journalists play in democracy.
WPF is outraged by the Turkish drone strike that killed journalists Jihan Belki and Nazim Dashdam near the Tishrin Dam, on the outskirts of Kobani. They were reporting on attacks on the dam when, according to local human rights groups, their vehicle was "directly" targeted.
On December 18, 2024, the Bishkek City Court upheld the sentences for several journalists involved in the Temirov Live case.
Journalist Çiğdem Akbayrak faces trial for "insulting the president" over a 2018 tweet criticizing Turkey's Afrin military operation. Despite the Constitutional Court ruling that the initial decision violated her rights, the case has been reopened.
While covering a protest in Mogadishu, Caabi was beaten with a pistol & stick, left with injuries to her head & hand, and forced into hiding.
Justyna Dobrosz-Oracz, a journalist at TVP, is suing former Prime Minister Mateusz Morawiecki for defamation after he falsely accused her of having ties to a Russian spy.
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We call on the Philippine authorities to end these chilling tactics and respect the rights of journalists.
Israeli airstrike kills Palestinian journalist Eman El Shanti, along with her husband and three sons.
Volha Radzivonava sentenced to 4 years in prison for “insulting the president” and “discrediting Belarus.”
Women Press Freedom strongly condemns the brutal murder of journalist Hanan Adam and her brother by the Rapid Support Forces (RSF).
Chișinău Mayor Ion Ceban calls journalists "alcoholics," "clowns," & "sycophants," accusing them of serving the govt. Those targeted by the outrageous accusations included journalists Nata Albot and Mariana Rață.
On December 9, 2024, Espreso TV journalist Maria Ivanovska was threatened by an armed man in Kremenchuk while investigating alleged sales of banned Russian oil products.
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Several journalists and photojournalists faced obstruction from police while covering the far-right 612 March and counterdemonstrations in Helsinki.
Multiple journalists from independent outlet Meydan TV including Khayala Agayeva, Aynur Elgunesh, Aysel Umudova and others, detained by Azerbaijani authorities.
Women Press Freedom strongly condemns the violent assault on TV Pirveli journalist Maka Chikhladze, who was attacked live on air by multiple masked men reportedly tied to the Georgian government.
We reiterate our call to drop all charges against her and join the #FreeNarges to call again for her full release.
Supreme Court upholds the death sentence of Kurdish journalist Pakhshan Azizi, reinforcing the regime's brutal crackdown on dissent.
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Georgian Prime Minister Irakli Kobakhidze insulted Formula TV journalist Eliso Jariashvili during a press conference, calling her "miserable" and accusing her of taking "dirty money."
We extend our heartfelt condolences to Marine's family and loved ones and urge authorities to conduct a full and transparent inquiry into her untimely passing.
A man, who appeared uninvited and became verbally aggressive, forced the group to abandon the interview
Channel Nine reporter Airlie Walsh has filed a sex discrimination lawsuit against her employer, Channel Nine, while on maternity leave.
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