International conference on protection of journalists in armed conflicts kicks off

Doha, Qatar: Organized by National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) and Al Jazeera Public Liberties and Human Rights Centre (PLHRC) at Al Jazeera Media N...

Doha, Qatar: Organized by National Human Rights Committee (NHRC) and Al Jazeera Public Liberties and Human Rights Centre (PLHRC) at Al Jazeera Media Network and in cooperation with the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) and the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, the international conference on the protection of journalists in armed conflict zones kicked off on Wednesday. Inaugurated by NHRC Chairperson HE Maryam bint Abdullah Al Attiyah, the conference will discuss ways to enhance the protection of journalists and ensure their safety while covering conflicts, and to address the issue of impunity for crimes committed against them, with the participation of international officials, experts, and media professionals. In this context, HE Al Attiyah said that organizing this conference comes within the context of the NHRC close monitoring of the conditions of journalists in areas of armed conflict, in addition to its keenness to follow up on the implementation of the outcomes of the previous conferences, especially the recommendations of the first Doha Declaration, issued by the international conference for the protection of journalists in dangerous situation, held in January 2012. In her opening remarks, Her Excellency added that while the NHRC is proud to note the reference to this declaration in numerous Human Rights Council resolutions, and welcomea the interpretation of a number of its recommendations into practical action, including the establishment of a unit dedicated to the safety of journalists within the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights, the NHRC renews its determination through this conference to move forward in enhancing protection and establishing a safe and enabling environment for journalists. HE NHRC Chairperson pointed out that while the NHRC recognizes the importance of the media in promoting and protecting human rights, it highly values the role of journalists and the sacrifices they make in highlighting violations in areas of armed conflict and drawing the world's attention to the humanitarian disasters resulting from the suffering of civilians in accessing food, water, healthcare, and other services essential to their survival. Her Excellency indicated that the escalation of serious violations and the systematic targeting of journalists, their families, and their communities aims to silence their voices, which are recognized under international humanitarian law and international human rights law. HE Al Attiyah emphasized that it is no longer acceptable to limit oneself to mere condemnation. The widening scope of crimes and serious violations against journalists points to the urgent need for broad action involving governments, national human rights institutions, and all stakeholders, along with UN agencies, to activate the rules of international law and implement comprehensive reforms to protection mechanisms. This will enhance their effectiveness in monitoring the implementation of relevant international obligations, end impunity by holding violators accountable, and strengthen guarantees of non-recurrence. Her Excellency said that the NHRC declares its commitment to following up on the implementation of the outcomes of this conference, in cooperation with various partners. The issue of protecting journalists will remain a top priority, in support of the truth and redress for victims. For his part, HE Director General of Al Jazeera Media Network Sheikh Nasser bin Faisal Al-Thani said that while the blood of Al Jazeera journalists in the Gaza Strip has not yet dried in defense of the truth, the profession of journalism is facing tests that threaten its very existence and its humanitarian role. His Excellency added that Al Jazeera Media Network has made the protection and safety of its journalists a firm priority, developing specialized training programs for its crews working in conflict zones and ensuring the highest standards of professional safety. However, its correspondents have been targeted simply for carrying out their duties. The number of Al Jazeera martyrs has reached 22 so far, 10 of whom were killed during the ongoing Israeli aggression on Gaza. HE the Director General of Al Jazeera Media Network emphasized that the press has never been a party to conflicts. Rather, it has served as a lens for conveying the truth, a voice for victims, and a tool for documenting the suffering of civilians. Respecting this role and ensuring the freedom of journalists to carry out their mission is the natural path to achieving justice. Otherwise, war crimes will remain unwittingly unseen, and humanity will remain memoryless. His Excellency pointed out that, in light of these challenges, Al Jazeera affirms that the safety of journalists must be a priority for the UN Security Council, calling for the implementation of relevant Human Rights Council resolutions, after hundreds of journalists lost their lives over the past decade amid complete impunity.