WHEREAS the country is facing an acute political crisis and an unprecedented escalation of violence, challenging conditions for the practice of journalism
WHEREAS the struggle between Prime Minister Ariel Henry and the opposition has generated a climate of instability, exacerbated by a wave of protests and an offensive by armed gangs, resulting in numerous deaths, displacements, and material damage to the infrastructure in Port-au-Prince
WHEREAS journalists and media outlets have been the targets of attacks, kidnappings, and threats, which led to the death of journalist Nerval Pierre Viliat and the kidnappings of Barnatte Daniel, Pierre-Fils Saintamour, and Lucien
WHEREAS there were also physical assaults, confiscation of equipment, and shooting at media facilities
WHEREAS Principle 4 of the Declaration of Chapultepec states that "murder, terrorism, kidnapping, pressure, intimidation, unjust imprisonment of journalists, material destruction of the media, the violence of any kind and impunity for aggressors severely restrict freedom of expression and of the press", and that this same principle states that "these acts should be promptly investigated and severely punished."
THE IAPA MID-YEAR MEETING RESOLVES
Urge the government to ensure a safe and enabling environment for the practice of journalism and urge it to take immediate and effective measures to protect the physical integrity of journalists, investigate attacks, and bring those responsible to justice
To request the collaboration of the international community to support efforts to protect journalists and strengthen press freedom
To express solidarity with journalists and media outlets working under risk conditions, recognizing their commitment to their work and democracy.
