European Commission recognises deliberate attacks on journalists as a war crime

Journalists working in war zones are civilians, and international law classifies intentional attacks on them as a war crime. This is stated in a statement released by the European External Action Service on the occasion of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (2 November).
The statement was signed by EU High Representative Josep Borrell and Vice-President of the European Commission Věra Jourová.
‘On the occasion of the 10th International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists, we honour the fearless reporters and journalists who are on the frontlines covering conflicts, crises and emergencies. Their work is vital in exposing human rights violations, abuses and war crimes that otherwise remain hidden from public view,’ the statement reads.
Last year, the number of murders of journalists rose to unprecedented levels, which is shocking and unacceptable. Tragic events took place in Gaza, Lebanon, Myanmar, Yemen, Sudan and other countries where journalists continued to work despite the threat of death, providing objective information, documenting war crimes and informing the world about the tragedies on the ground.
In particular, Ukrainian journalists face violence, harassment and arbitrary detention by Russian and pro-Russian forces. The European Union strongly condemns such actions and calls for immediate measures to protect journalists and media professionals. International humanitarian law stipulates that journalists must remain protected as civilians, and targeted attacks against them constitute a war crime under this law.
Josep Borrell and Vera Jourova called on all states to investigate such cases thoroughly, promptly and impartially. They emphasised that violence and threats against journalists, as well as harassment, create a climate of fear, lead to self-censorship and drive journalists out of the profession. Without accountability for these crimes, the cycle of violence will continue, reducing the space for free journalism and violating the right of citizens to receive information.
As a reminder, according to the Council of Europe, more than 30 Ukrainian journalists are being illegally detained by Russian forces on false charges.