The International Association of Broadcasting (IAB) strongly condemns the serious threats made by FARC dissidents against the journalists and staff of Noticias Caracol, following the publication of an investigative report on the infiltration of armed groups into institutions of the Colombian State.

Labelling a media outlet as an “actor in the armed conflict” constitutes an extremeform of intimidation that disregards the basic principles of International Humanitarian Law, increases the risk to the lives and safety of journalists, and seeks to suppress investigative journalism, which is essential for democratic oversight of power.

As stated in Principle No. 9 of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights’ Declaration of Principles, “The murder, kidnapping, intimidation and threats to social communicators, as well as the material destruction of communications media, violate fundamental rights of individuals and strongly restrict freedom of expression. It is the duty of States to prevent and investigate such acts, punish their perpetrators, and ensure adequate reparation to the victims.”

IAB urges the Colombian State to publicly and unequivocally condemn these acts of intimidation, to demand that armed groups immediately cease their violence, and to ensure full protection for journalists throughout the country.

An attack on journalism is an attack on democracy. IAB will remain vigilant regarding this situation and expresses its firm solidarity with the journalists of Noticias Caracol.