Violence Against Women Journalists Hits Record High—WPF Urges Immediate Action

Key Findings of 2024 Report:

1. Sharp Increase in Violations:

   • 951 press violations against women journalists were documented in 2024, marking a 56% increase from 2023.

2. Record High in Killings:

   • 21 women journalists killed, the highest number since Women Press Freedom (WPF) began tracking in 2019.

3. Rising Physical Assaults:

   • 128 cases of physical assault, with 40% occurring at protests, making demonstrations one of the most dangerous environments for women journalists.

4. Legal Harassment Surge:

   • 156 cases of legal harassment, with Turkiye leading at 52 cases, a 160% increase from 2023.

5. Top Violator Countries:

   • Turkiye (128 violations), Russia (105), and Venezuela (45) were the top three countries with the most violations against women journalists.

6. Gaza Conflict Toll:

   • 11 journalists killed in Gaza in 2024, part of a broader toll of over 160 journalists killed since October 2023, with 27 being women journalists.

7. Transnational Repression:

   • 69 cases of transnational repression, with Russia (53 cases) using foreign agent laws to target exiled journalists.

8. SLAPP Cases on the Rise:

   • 41 SLAPP (Strategic Lawsuits Against Public Participation) cases documented globally, with Turkiye (14) and Russia (4) as top perpetrators.

9. Dangers in Conflict Zones:

   • Ukraine: 9 journalists injured in Russian attacks, an 80% increase from 2023.

10. Advocacy Successes:

    • Alsu Kurmasheva (Russia), Brandi Morin (Canada), and Cecilia Sala (Iran) were released following intense advocacy by CFWIJ and WPF, showcasing the power of collective action in defending press freedom.