Brussels, Jan 02 (V7N) — A total of 125 journalists were killed across the world in 2025, with the highest number of deaths occurring in West Asia, according to the Belgium-based International Federation of Journalists (IFJ).

The IFJ reported that 56 journalists were killed in Gaza due to Israeli attacks, accounting for 44 percent of all journalist fatalities globally. The remaining deaths were recorded across Africa (18), Asia-Pacific (15), the Americas (11), and Europe (10). Nine deaths were accidental, and ten of the victims were women.

In India, the IFJ confirmed four journalist deaths last year. On January 1, 2025, Mukesh Chandrakar, the operator of the YouTube channel ‘Buster Junction,’ was murdered in Bijapur district, Chhattisgarh, after reporting alleged irregularities in a road construction project.

The IFJ also reported that 533 journalists were imprisoned worldwide in 2025. The Asia-Pacific region accounted for the highest number, with 277 journalists jailed, followed by China with 143 and Myanmar with 49.

Compared to 2024, when 122 journalists were killed and 516 imprisoned, the figures reflect a worsening global situation. The IFJ condemned the authorities’ “continued failure” to protect media personnel and called for immediate and decisive action to stop violence. General Secretary Anthony Bellanger emphasized, “The deaths of 128 journalists in a single year are not just statistics; they represent a global crisis.”

Gaza was identified as the deadliest location for journalists, and the Middle East as the most dangerous region overall. Of the 74 journalists killed in the Middle East, 56 died in Gaza. The killing of Al Jazeera journalist Anas Al-Sharif was highlighted as among the most severe incidents.

The IFJ’s report underscores the persistent threats faced by media professionals worldwide and stresses the urgent need for stronger protections and accountability measures to safeguard journalists on the frontlines.

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