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IFJ International Federation of Journalists

Pakistani journalist becomes first to die in 2014 - just a day after IFJ plea for stronger action to protect workers

By Angela Haggerty, Reporter

January 3, 2014 | 3 min read

Pakistani journalist Shan Odhor has become the first in the industry to die in 2014 according to the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) – a day after organisation issued a “desperate appeal” for governments to take strong action to protect journalists.

Figures: The IFJ said 108 journalists died in targeted killings in 2013

Odhor, a reporter for a private news channel in Badha area of Larkana district, was reportedly shot on his way home on New Year’s Eve and died in the early hours of New Year’s Day. His attacker remains on the loose.

The news followed the IFJ’s appeal on New Year’s Eve for governments around the world to “end impunity” for violence against journalists following the targeted killings of at least 108 media workers in 2013. A further 15 lost their lives while on assignments.

Protests were held in Pakistan following Odhor’s death by the Pakistan Federal Unions of Journalists.

IFJ president Jim Boumelha called for action from Pakistani authorities.

“We call for authorities in Pakistan to carry out an immediate and thorough investigation into his murder and to take every step necessary to ensure that the perpetrators of this horrific crime face the full weight of justice.”

According the IFJ’s records, Syria was the most dangerous place for media workers in 2013 with 15 deaths, followed by the Iraq at 13 deaths, Pakistan, the Philippines and India at 10 deaths apiece.

The journalism body’s figures also showed that violence against female media workers, including sexual abuse, intimidation and discrimination, was on the increase.

In response to the conditions facing journalists reporting throughout the world, the United Nations on 18 December adopted a resolution to establish 2 November as an International Day to End Impunity.

Beth Costa, IFJ general secretary, said: “It is clear that there is no sign of the horrific treatment of journalists abating.

“The UN day for 2 November is of huge importance in the fight to protect the rights, safety and freedoms of journalists across the globe, including the many women journalists who deal with discrimination and violence on a daily basis.”

In February 2013, campaign 'A Day Without News' was launched by Reporters Without Borders to highlight the threats facing journalists on the anniversary of the deaths of American war correspondent Marie Colvin and photographer Remi Ochlik in Homs, Syria.

IFJ International Federation of Journalists

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