Conclusion

The problem of violence against journalists, and impunity for such crimes, is a complex and pernicious one. In addition, the digital era has created significant new challenges and altered the forms of violence experienced by journalists, especially female journalists. On the other hand, international standards around safety of journalists are well-developed and significant international attention to the issue, such as within the United Nations, means a wide range of resources are now available to governments seeking to find ways to protect journalists better.

Lawyers looking to use litigation as a tool for addressing violence against journalists may consider cases where government actors themselves perpetuate violence. However, international standards also clearly place obligations on States to take action in response to violence against journalists committed by non-State actors. Litigation may therefore be an option for challenging government inaction in the face of such attacks.