Sudanese Journalists Syndicate was awarded prestigious UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize in recognition of its efforts to expose and condemn targeting of journalists during ongoing conflict in Sudan.
Background
The conflict between Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and Rapid Support Forces (RSF), which began in April 2023, has resulted in one of world’s worst humanitarian and displacement crises.
Impact of Conflict on Media in Sudan
- Syndicate has documented: 32 journalist deaths and 556 violations against media workers
- Closure of numerous newspapers and radio stations
- Around 90% of media infrastructure destroyed
- Journalists face threats of violence, arrest, and intimidation
- Severe disruption due to internet and telecommunications blackouts, hampering reporting
UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize
It is a globally recognized honour awarded annually to individuals or organisations that have made an exceptional contribution to press freedom, particularly under dangerous conditions.
Key Features
- Named after Guillermo Cano Isaza, who was assassinated in 1986 outside his newspaper office in Bogotá
- Established in 1997 on initiative of UNESCO’s Executive Board
- Winners are selected by an independent international jury of media professionals
- Awarded annually on World Press Freedom Day (May 3)
Notable Laureates
- Palestinian journalists reporting from Gaza
- Maria Ressa (Nobel Peace Prize 2021 co-laureate)
- Dmitry Muratov (Nobel Peace Prize 2021 co-laureate)
Significance
- Highlights the critical role of journalists in conflict zones
- Draws global attention to press freedom violations and safety of media workers
- Reinforces the importance of independent journalism in humanitarian crises
- Recognizes courage in documenting truth despite life-threatening conditions