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Almost 4 out of every 10 journalists reporting on the climate crisis and environment problems have been threatened because of their work.
Almost 4 out of every 10 journalists reporting on the climate crisis and environment problems have been threatened because of their work. The groundbreaking new research also found that 11% have faced physical violence while reporting. A big survey of over 740 reporters and editors from 102 countries around the world found that 39% of those threatened “sometimes” or “often” were targeted by people doing illegal activities like logging and mining.
Threats and Hurting
The study talked to over 740 journalists from 102 countries. In a shocking finding, almost 4 out of every 10 journalists (39%) said they got threats because of their work on climate and environment stories. These threats often came from people doing illegal activities like logging and mining.
Even worse, 11% of the journalists said they faced physical violence while reporting on these topics. This number shows the grave dangers journalists face in trying to tell important stories about our planet’s well-being.
Legal Fights and Self-Censorship
Besides getting direct threats and hurt, the report found that 30% of journalists got threatened with legal action. This means companies and governments are using the law more and more to stop free speech. This bullying has made many journalists self-censor their work, with 39% saying they left out important information because they were scared of what might happen.
The Climate Crisis: A Very Big Issue
The climate crisis and its bad effects, like big storms, pollution, water troubles, and nature getting hurt, are some of the most important issues right now. However, the study found that there are still not enough stories being told about these topics, even though the problem is very serious.
Many journalists said not having enough resources was a big problem for reporting more on climate and environment stories. A huge 76% said not having enough resources limited what they could cover. They need more money, training, information and experts to help.
Help is Needed
The “Covering the Planet” report is a wake-up call that we need to help and protect journalists working hard to share stories about the climate crisis and bad things happening to the environment. These brave people risk getting hurt to bring these very important stories to everyone, and they urgently need more resources and protection.
As climate change and damage to the environment keep getting worse and worse, it is very very important that we give power and keep safe those people trying to inform the public and hold bad people accountable. By supporting journalism about climate and the environment, we can make sure these vital stories are told, and that the public knows about the big challenges our planet is facing.
