Press release
UNESCO Director-General condemns killing of journalist Mardonio Mejía Mendoza in Colombia
I condemn the killing of Mardonio Mejía Mendoza. I urge the authorities to undertake an investigation into the circumstances of this killing and to bring the perpetrators to justice. Impunity for such crimes is unacceptable and must not be tolerated.
Mardonio Mejía Mendoza was the founder and director of the independent Sonora Estero radio station in the northern town of San Pedro. He hosted a daily programme that included reports about crime and law enforcement. He was reportedly shot by gunmen on a motorcycle at the entrance of his house and later died.
UNESCO promotes the safety of journalists 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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