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Asia Pacific was the deadliest region in the world for journalists in 2013: IFJ report

Asia Pacific was the most dangerous region in the world for journalists last year, according to a report from the International Federation of Journalists.

Some 29 per cent of a total 105 killings worldwide happened in this region last year. Pakistan (10 deaths), Syria (15), Iraq (13) and the Philippines were the most dangerous countries for reporters.

In the Philippines, drive-by shootings were the most common way journalists were killed, whereas in Pakistan bombs were the most popular way to silence writers, the report said. However, Typhoon Haiyan also claimed the lives of reporters in the Philippines.

Journalism is an increasingly dangerous profession in India, the IFJ reports, with mob-related violence and direct physical attacks on the increase in 2013. In addition, there was a case of sexual violence in India last year, with the rape of a photojournalist in Mumbai in August.

“The media death toll of 2013 confirms the abject failure of governments to hold accountable those who are responsible for violence against journalists, which has entrenched the culture of impunity for attacks on media professionals,” the IFJ said in a press release.

“There is an urgent need for governments to protect and enforce journalists’ basic right to life. Governments across the world must take drastic action to stem the bloodbath in media.”

To read the full report, click here.

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