Protecting journalists online with global solutions from IGF 2024

The safety of journalists online took centre stage during an open forum at IGF 2024 in Riyadh. Experts and audience members shared insights on the growing threats faced by journalists globally, including online harassment, surveillance, and censorship. Discussions underscored how these challenges disproportionately affect women journalists and individuals from marginalised communities.

Panelists such as Isabelle Lois from Switzerland and Bruna Martins dos Santos from Brazil emphasised the urgent need for stronger legal frameworks and better implementation of existing laws. Digital platforms were urged to increase accountability for online attacks, while media organisations were encouraged to provide robust support systems for their journalists. Gulalai Khan from Pakistan highlighted the importance of digital literacy and ethical reporting in navigating online threats.

Debates also addressed the evolving definition of journalism in the digital age, questioning whether protections should extend to citizen journalists and content creators. Giulia Lucchese from the Council of Europe pointed to positive initiatives like Switzerland’s National Action Plan and European campaigns on journalist safety as steps in the right direction. However, participants agreed on the need for greater international collaboration to amplify these efforts.

The session concluded with a call for multi-stakeholder approaches to foster trust and ensure journalist safety. Speakers stressed that governments, tech companies, and civil society must work together to protect press freedom in democratic societies. Overall, the forum highlighted both ongoing challenges and the importance of collective action to safeguard journalists in an increasingly digital world.

All transcripts from the Internet Governance Forum sessions can be found on dig.watch.