128 Journalists Killed Worldwide in 2025 — Press Group

Geneva — No fewer than 128 journalists were killed across the world in 2025, according to a report released by the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ), highlighting the growing dangers faced by media professionals globally.

The report, published on Monday, revealed that more than half of the deaths occurred in the Middle East, making it the deadliest region for journalists during the year under review.

According to the IFJ, many of the journalists were targeted while carrying out their professional duties in conflict zones, while others were killed in politically motivated attacks, criminal violence, or under unclear circumstances.

The global body noted that war zones, political instability, and weak protection for journalists continue to expose media workers to grave risks, with impunity remaining a major concern.

Journalists are paying the ultimate price for reporting the truth,” the IFJ said in the report. “Governments must do more to protect media professionals and ensure that crimes against them do not go unpunished.”

The report further showed that countries experiencing armed conflicts and civil unrest recorded the highest number of casualties, with journalists often caught in crossfire or deliberately targeted for their reporting.

The IFJ also called on governments, international organisations and security agencies to strengthen safety mechanisms for journalists, enforce press freedom laws and prosecute perpetrators of attacks against media workers.

It urged media organisations to improve safety training and provide protective equipment for reporters operating in high-risk areas.

The annual report once again underscores the dangerous reality of journalism, especially in conflict-prone regions, and renews calls for stronger global action to protect press freedom.