The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) have called for a thorough investigation into the brutal murder of Swedish journalist, Nils Horner, in Afghanistan today.
According to media reports, radio journalist Horner, who also held British citizenship, was shot dead in a rare daylight attack in Kabul on Tuesday morning, 11 March, by an unknown gunman.
Horner was a highly respected journalist who worked in New York and London during the 1990's. Since 2001 he had covered the Asia region for Swedish public service radio station, Sveriges Radio.
"We express our condolences to the family and colleagues of Swedish journalist Nils Horner," said IFJ President Jim Boumelha. "We urge the relevant authorities in Afghanistan to carry out an immediate and detailed investigation into this terrible incident and to ensure those responsible pay for their crime."
"This appalling murder once again demonstrates the major challenges that continue to face journalists and freedom of speech in Afghanistan and the urgent need for the country's authorities to find ways to provide journalists with the protection they require."
IFJ/EFJ's Swedish affiliate, the Swedish Union of Journalists, have expressed their "great dismay" at the murder of their colleague and sent their thoughts to his family.
For more information, please contact IFJ on +32 2 235 22 17
The IFJ represents more than 600 000 journalists in 134 countries
