UNESCO Director-General Condemns Killing of Sudanese Journalist Ahmed Yusuf Arabi

Audrey Azoulay, the Director-General of UNESCO, has strongly condemned on January 20 the killing of Sudanese journalist Ahmed Yusuf Arabi, who was shot dead in Khartoum on 12 January 2024. Arabi, a reporter for Blue Nile TV Channel, was reportedly killed when armed individuals, dressed in military uniforms, raided his home in Omdurman and shot him.

The tragic incident has sparked global outrage, with calls for a thorough investigation to ensure those responsible are held accountable.

Azoulay expressed her concern for the safety of journalists, particularly in conflict zones, emphasizing their essential role in providing information during such times. She called for full respect of UN Security Council Resolution 2222, which protects journalists, media workers, and associated personnel as civilians in conflict situations.

This resolution was reaffirmed in the recent UN Pact for the Future, underscoring the need to safeguard the rights of journalists worldwide.