“No journalist anywhere should have to risk their life to report the news. Together, let us stand up for journalists – and stand up for justice.” – Ban Ki-moon, UN Secretary General

For over three years the members of IPF have prided ourselves on providing a platform for the next generation of journalists — to let them tell the stories that matter most to them.

With more than 300 young writers based around the world we have seen some brilliant stories, many of which didn’t make it onto the mainstream news agenda. Every one of these young authors should be proud of the stories they have told.

“However, campaigns around the globe are trying to shut-out and silence journalists—young and old.”

According to UNESCO more than 700 journalists have been killed over the past decade for doing their job.

And only one in ten crimes committed against media workers has led to a conviction.

In 2013, the United Nations proclaimed November 2 the ‘International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists’. The General Assembly also adopted a resolution in 2013 that urged all member states to implement measures to combat this culture of exemption from justice for crimes against journalists.

In November 2015, Irina Bokova, the Director-General of UNESCO, said:

“The near complete impunity for the perpetrators of crimes against journalists goes against everything that we stand for, our shared values, our common objectives. I urge everyone to stand up on 2 November and demand that the rule of law is fully applied when journalists are attacked and killed in the line of duty.”

Despite efforts from the United Nations, the number of crimes against journalists continues to rise. More action must be taken. If these crimes aren’t exposed, aren’t discussed and ultimately aren’t dealt with we will continue to evolve into a society where people are afraid to speak up—and a world where journalists are too afraid to inform the public transparently.

IPF is proud of the work our young journalists around the world do, and on 2 November 2015 we are honouring the media professionals who have been killed by calling on the next generation of journalists to stand up in the face of impunity.

“We want to hear from budding journalists around the globe about the stories they think are important.”

You provide the story, we’ll help you share it with the world. If you are an aspiring journalist and have a great story to tell, here’s a few simple steps you can take to get involved today:

  1. Read our submission guidelines and pitch a story idea.
  2. For those who’s like a little inspitation for ideas and topics, our team is here to help. Check out our latest article suggestions and let us know if you’d like to write about any of them.
  3. Sign up to our Thunderclap to spread the word.
  4. We’re recruiting! Find out if you could join us on a more permanent basis.
  5. Check out our Events page to find out about some brilliant journalism-related events taking place for young people.
  6. Subscribe to our newsletter to receive awesome journalism opportunities.

Say no to impunity for crimes against journalists and become the next generation of storytellers today.