Press release
UNESCO Director-General condemns the killing of journalist José Carlos González Herrera in Mexico
I condemn the killing of José Carlos González Herrera and call for a swift and transparent investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. Impunity for such crimes must not be tolerated as it only emboldens those who seek to silence journalists and prevent them from fulfilling their crucial role of informing the public.
José Carlos González Herrera, aka "El Fénix", was the editor of the social media news page El Guerrero, Opinión Ciudadana. He reported on several topics, including corruption, organized crime, violence, and abuse of power.
José Carlos González Herrera was reportedly shot dead by unidentified armed men when leaving a recording studio. He had previously survived an attempt on his life in 2023.
José Carlos González Herrera is the sixth journalist killed in Mexico in 2025.
UNESCO promotes the through global awareness-raising, capacity building and by coordinating the implementation of the on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.
About UNESCO
With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, 91鶹Ʒ offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay.
“Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed” – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.
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