Journalist killing a war crime? CHR wants study

MANILA, Philippines - Serious study is needed on the proposal to make it a war crime to kill or kidnap journalists who cover conflict areas, the Commission on Human Rights (CHR) said yesterday.

CHR spokesman Marc Cebreros said changes in the international human rights law have to be carefully considered before it can be adopted by different countries.

Cebreros was reacting to the statement of Associated Press president Gary Pruitt, who said a new framework is needed to protect journalists who cover conflicts.

“It used to be that when media wore ‘Press’ emblazoned on their vest, or ‘Press’ or ‘Media’ was on their vehicle, it gave them a degree of protection,” Pruitt said in a speech Monday at Hong Kong’s Foreign Correspondents’ Club.

“But guess what: That labeling now is more likely to make them a target,” he added.

Cebreros said the strong message of the AP president highlighted the enormity of the problem with regard to the killing of journalists, particularly in war-torn areas such as Syria and Iraq.

He stressed the need for governments, including the Philippines, to ensure the protection of all journalists, and not just those who cover conflicts.

According to Cebreros, classifying an act as a war crime – in this case the killing of journalists – would entail higher penalties and a different evidentiary requirement during trial.

“The nature of the offense will be different,” he said.

If killing or kidnapping journalists would be declared a war crime, Cebreros said media personnel who cover conflicts might be accorded the same protection given to members of the Red Cross.

He said under international human rights law, both sides of the warring parties are obligated to ensure the protection of the Red Cross. – With Cecille Suerte Felipe