Imphal: Journalist killings dropped sharply during the first six months of 2026. The world saw 39 media workers killed, a 54 percent reduction from the 85 deaths recorded during the same period in 2025. The Press Emblem Campaign confirmed the numbers. Despite the dip, the body warns the toll remains high.
The Middle East remains the most dangerous region with 19 total deaths. Israeli military operations caused nine deaths in Lebanon and seven in Gaza. Syria, Iran, and Yemen each recorded one casualty. Since October 7, 2023, the PEC reports 228 Palestinian journalists dead in Gaza fighting. Blaise Lempen, president of the PEC, noted the shift. "This decline in the number of victims is finally some good news, after three record-breaking years," Lempen said. He added that 39 murders is still too many.
Latin America followed with 12 deaths. Mexico topped the list with five murders. Colombia, Haiti, and Venezuela each recorded two deaths, while Guatemala saw one. Asia recorded six fatalities. The Philippines proved deadliest in the region with three deaths: Julio Calo of DNN News FM, RJ Nichole Ledesma of Paghimutad-Negros, and Nestor Micator of Empire Radio Station. Bangladesh, India, and Pakistan each saw one victim: Rana Pratap Bairagi, Jaganmohan Reddy, and Lala Israfil Khan respectively. Africa saw two deaths, one each in Somalia and Uganda. Europe recorded zero.
Impunity continues to plague investigations. The PEC highlights a lack of accountability for Israeli military personnel and notes that criminal networks and state institutions in Mexico stall justice. The group calls for international intervention to identify those responsible.
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