UN Security Council adopts resolution protecting journalists in armed conflicts

The UN Security Council unanimously adopted a resolution Saturday condemning all attacks targeting journalists in armed conflicts and urging combatants to respect their rights and professional independence.

The resolution, sponsored by France and Greece, expressed deep concern "at the frequency of acts of violence in many parts of the world against journalists, medial professionals and associated personnel in armed conflict, in particular the deliberate attacks in violation of international humanitarian law."

It stressed that journalists and media professionals engaged in dangerous missions in areas of armed conflict shall be considered as civilians.

It urged states and all other parties to conflicts "to do their utmost to prevent violations of international humanitarian law against civilians," including journalists.

The resolution also called on states to "prosecute those responsible for serious violations of international humanitarian law."

Source: Xinhua