The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) joins its affiliate the Afghan Independent Journalists’ Association (AIJA) in condemning the killing of journalist Khadem Bhadurzoy by insurgents groups in Urgon District of Paktika Province in south eastern Afghanistan on Tuesday February 21, 2012.
Mr Bahadurzoy was station manager for the Mehman (Melma) Radio station, which was established with financial support from the Government of the United States of America. He was also head of a local youth organization.
A number of unknown armed men entered Bhadurzoy’s house on February 21, taking him to an unknown location. Bahadorzoy’s family found his decapitated body on the morning of Wednesday February 22.
“Bhadurzoy’s
death speaks of the continuing hazards that journalists face in Afghanistan”, IFJ Asia-Pacific Director Jacqueline Park said.
“The IFJ calls upon media organisations to develop protocols for the coverage of insurgency-related violence that ensure the safety of news gatherers while safeguarding the public’s right to information”
The IFJ joins the AIJA in extending its condolences to the family and friends of Bhadurzoy.
For further information contact IFJ Asia-Pacific on +61 2 9333 0950
The IFJ represents more than 600,000 journalists in 131 countries
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