Chad: UNESCO chief urges safety for journalists in conflict after death of reporter

“I condemn the killing of Obed Nangbatna,” said the Director-General. “Journalists covering conflict zones face high risks of injury or death.

The Director-General of UNESCO, Audrey Azoulay, has urged better safety for journalists in conflict situations as she condemned the killing of television reporter Obed Nangbatna in Chad on 25 May.

“I condemn the killing of Obed Nangbatna,” said the Director-General. “Journalists covering conflict zones face high risks of injury or death. To improve their safety, it is essential that safety protocols designed for their protection be fully respected.”

Obed Nangbatna, a reporter for public broadcaster Télé Tchad, was fatally wounded when the military convoy he was accompanying hit a landmine that also claimed the lives of four soldiers.

UNESCO promotes the safety of journalists through global awareness-raising, capacity building and a range of actions, notably the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.