The International Association of Broadcasting (IAB) strongly condemns the attack on Jéssica Aquino, a reporte for TV Arapuan (a Band affiliate in Paraíba) which occurred while she was broadcasting live from the Central Market in João Pessoa on Friday, May 29, 2026.

The journalist was ambushed and physically assaulted during the broadcast of the programme Tribuna Livre, being pushed and struck, which forced her to interrupt her segment in a state of shock. The reporter later confirmed that she was physically unharmed, though emotionally shaken.

As established in Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression No. 9 of the Inter-American Commission on Human Rights, intimidation, threats, or violence against media professionals, as well as attacks against media outlets, constitute serious violations of fundamental rights and severely restrict freedom of expression. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of States to prevent, investigate, and punish such acts.

The IAB urges Brazilian authorities to promptly investigate the incident and to ensure adequate security conditions for the practice of journalism throughout the country. The IAB also expresses its solidarity with Jéssica Aquino, TV Arapuan, and all media professionals who work to defend society’s right to be informed.

Montevideo, June 1, 2026