Between the Barrel and the Forest: The Dangerous Journey of Latin American Environmental Journalists
Carolina de Assis masterfully sheds light on the harrowing challenges faced by environmental and climate journalists in Latin America in her compelling piece for the LatAm Journalism Review
March 12, 2024
In "Reporters covering environment and climate in Latin America confront threats and harassment in the field," Carolina de Assis weaves a narrative that illuminates the perilous journeys of journalists in Latin America who report on the environment and climate.
The story opens with a chilling anecdote from Brazilian journalist Daniel Camargos, who recounts a life-threatening encounter with a rifle aimed at his face while covering a land conflict in the Amazon. This harrowing experience serves as a gateway into the broader, treacherous landscape that environmental journalists navigate, where the pursuit of truth is fraught with danger.
De Assis meticulously crafts her report around the findings of the International Press Institute's study, "Climate and Environmental Journalism Under Fire," which draws from interviews with 40 journalists across the globe. She sheds light on the multifaceted threats these reporters face: from physical violence and detention to legal harassment and censorship. The vivid recounting of these journalists' experiences underscores the high stakes of environmental reporting, where stories challenging powerful economic interests can provoke severe backlash from those threatened by exposure.
De Assis's approach is both investigative and empathetic. She paints a comprehensive picture of the challenges and courage of those at the frontline of environmental journalism in Latin America. Through her lens, readers are invited to grasp the complex dynamics and risks involved, fostering a deeper appreciation for the indispensable work of these reporters in the battle against environmental degradation and for the truth.
The Coalition For Women In Journalism is a global organization of support for women journalists. The CFWIJ pioneered mentorship for mid-career women journalists across several countries around the world and is the first organization to focus on the status of free press for women journalists. We thoroughly document cases of any form of abuse against women in any part of the globe. Our system of individuals and organizations brings together the experience and mentorship necessary to help female career journalists navigate the industry. Our goal is to help develop a strong mechanism where women journalists can work safely and thrive.