National Union of Journalists urges Unesco to support press in Ukraine

The UK’s National Union of Journalists (NUJ_ has joined the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) in calling on Unesco to protect journalists in Ukraine.

As journalists report on events and inform the public of developments amidst Russian conflict against Ukraine, their safety and protection must be guaranteed, the organisations say.

The IFJ and the International Trade Union Confederation, representing more than 200 million workers worldwide, have called on their members to express solidarity with the workers and citizens of Ukraine, through a solidarity fund for ITUC affiliated organisations in the country.

The NUJ is also calling on members to support the IFJ safety fund, providing financial assistance in immediate relief to journalists. Safety advice has also been updated.

Michelle Stanistreet, NUJ general secretary, said: “As journalists continue to report in dangerous conditions across Ukraine, Unesco must act now to ensure their safety within the country. The NUJ stands in solidarity with sister unions and has supported calls for donations to the International Federation of Journalists’ safety fund.

“We also urge all employers and engagers to ensure that staff and freelance journalists reporting across Ukraine on their behalf have all the necessary safety equipment and support they need,” she went on.