A special ‘freedom walk’ to commemorate the 408 journalists across the world who have died in the service of their profession in the last three years was held in Dublin on Wednesday 5 June.
Some 300 journalists from around the world involved in the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) world congress took part in the walk from Dubh Linn Gardens in Dublin Castle to City Hall.
Delegates carried 408 carnations, one for each journalist who has lost their life over the last three years.
Commenting on the event, IFJ general secretary Beth Costa, said: “This freedom walk demonstrates our solidarity with those who have died because they were journalists.
“In saluting the men and women who have died because of their profession, we also show our commitment to the profession of journalism and send a clear signal that the IFJ is vigilant in defence of journalists and journalism.”
The walk began with a symbolic wreath-laying at the monument to murdered crime reporter Veronica Guerin in Dubh Linn Gardens.
NUJ Irish secretary Seamus Dooley said: “This freedom walk not only commemorates those men and women who have died in service of their profession, but also underlines our commitment to diversity and pluralism in journalism across the world.”
