On World Environment Day, World Journalists Federation(WJF) Reaffirms Its Commitment to Environmental Protection and Press Freedom

On the occasion of World Environment Day, the World Journalists Federation (WJF) has reiterated its global commitment to raising awareness about the worsening environmental crisis and the vital role environmental journalists play in combating it. As the world grapples with the triple threat of climate change, biodiversity loss, and pollution, the federation underscores the urgent need to safeguard both our environment and the journalists who courageously report on its degradation.

Across the globe, communities are facing escalating environmental challenges—from air and water pollution to deforestation, land degradation, floods, droughts, and rising sea levels. These crises endanger the lives and livelihoods of millions, especially the poor and marginalized. The depletion of freshwater resources, toxic urban air, shrinking forests, and increasing marine threats have become urgent warning signs for humanity. Effective environmental governance and a well-informed public are essential to addressing these threats.

Environmental journalists serve on the frontlines, exposing ecological destruction, holding powerful interests accountable, and mobilizing action. Yet, their work is becoming increasingly hazardous. According to UNESCO, over 70% of environmental journalists worldwide have faced threats or violence, with at least 44 killed between 2009 and 2023, and convictions in only five of those cases. In many parts of Asia and beyond, journalists face physical assaults, legal harassment, detention, and censorship—often at the hands of both state and non-state actors. In Bangladesh, laws like the Digital Security Act have severely restricted media freedom. In India, particularly in regions such as Kashmir, journalists face routine intimidation and arrest.

WJF General Secretary Abid Chaudhry stated:
“Environmental journalists are the guardians of our planet’s well-being, yet they face intolerable risks for simply doing their job. Governments, corporations, and civil society must act to ensure their safety and uphold their right to report without fear. On World Environment Day, we urge all stakeholders—lawmakers, public officials, activists, legal professionals, and intellectuals—to treat environmental protection and press freedom as two pillars of a sustainable future.”

WJF President Irfan Ghafoor emphasized:
“The global environmental crisis demands a united and urgent response. Journalists have a responsibility to amplify marginalized voices, expose environmental injustices, and foster informed public discourse. We advocate for transparent environmental governance, strong legal protections, and open information-sharing to empower communities and hold polluters accountable.”

The World Journalists Federation is calling on governments—particularly in Asia and Africa—to implement and enforce robust environmental laws, strengthen Freedom of Information frameworks, and protect journalists from violence, threats, and censorship. Legislators must address gaps in Environmental Impact Assessment implementation and ensure inclusive public participation. Lawyers, academics, and activists must collaborate to defend environmental justice and support those targeted for their reporting. Media institutions should invest in training and safety resources for environmental journalists to help them report effectively and securely.

On this World Environment Day, the World Journalists Federation stands in solidarity with environmental journalists and defenders across the globe. We pledge to continue our unwavering advocacy for a free press, a healthy environment, and a just society—where the voices of the vulnerable are heard, and the truth prevails.