Palestinian Journalists have been awarded ‘world press freedom hero’ Award of 2024. Chair of the international jury of media professionals, This was jointly presented by the International Press Institute (IPI) and International Media Support (IMS). They stated, “..recognises the extraordinary courage and resilience that Palestinian journalists have demonstrated in covering the war in Gaza”. “Under the most dire of circumstances, they have risked their lives to be the world’s eyes and ears.”
In these unforeseen circumstances where journalists can not enter the territory, only those who are inside Gaza can operate. The blockade and siege means that these journalists have been victim to all tragedies of the war. Amidst these insufferable circumstances, they have remained steadfast in continuing their work. At least over 100 journalists have been killed ever since October 7 marking the highest death count in this short time.
In December, Al Jazeera’s Gaza bureau chief, Wael Dahdouh, sustained injuries during an Israeli strike that claimed the life of his colleague, Samer Abudaqa, Al Jazeera Arabic’s cameraman. This occurred while they were reporting in southern Gaza. Wael also lost several of his close family members including his sons, grandson and even his wife. Their vehicle was particularly targeted while they were reporting. Wael al Dahdouh is hence one of the recipients of this award. Additionally this award pays tribute to Bilal Jadallah, the “father figure” of journalism in Gaza. He too was martyred in November 2023. This award is set to be presented on the May 23 in a special ceremony at the IPI World Congress and Media Innovation Festival in Sarajevo, the capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina.
