Resolution Adopted To Protect Journalists Covering Protests

A major step has been taken towards the protection of journalists. A resolution adopted by the United Nations Human Rights Council now acknowledges “the promotion and protection of human rights in the context of peaceful protests.”

Reporters Without Borders announced that it "recognizes and endorses" the duties of journalists covering protests and demonstrations and denounces any attacks against the journalists as they fulfill these duties.

There was a "a dramatic increase in violence and intimidation in 2013," Reporters Without Borders head of research and advocacy Lucie Morillon said. The resolution, submitted by Turkey, Costa Rica and Switzerland, stresses the important role that journalists play at demonstrations in providing people with coverage, essential information and "documenting human rights violations or abuses committed in the context of peaceful protests.”

The resolution urges states to pay close attention to journalists' safety and vulnerability while covering peaceful protests, and to ensure that the resolution is effective immediately.