Condemning death of Syrian journalist, UNESCO head highlights protection of civilians in conflicts

The head of the United Nations agency tasked with defending the freedom of the media today denounced the death of Syrian photojournalist, Khalid Al Issa, who was killed after a homemade bomb detonated in his building.

In a statement, Irina Bokova, the Director-General of United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO), also reminded all parties in a conflict to observe the civilian status of journalists and to respect their rights as prescribed by the Geneva Conventions.

“The work and commitment of media professionals as purveyors of accurate information is essential in all societies, and especially those facing conflict,” said Ms. Bokova.

Khalid Al Issa was seriously injured in the bombing, and was then succumbed to his wounds in a hospital in the Turkish border city of Antakya.

UNESCO chief issues statements on the killing of media workers in line with Resolution 29 adopted by UNESCO Member States in 1997, entitled “Condemnation of Violence against Journalists.”