Sudanese Journalists Syndicate Wins UNESCO Press Freedom Prize
The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate has been awarded the UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize in recognition of its commitment to delivering accurate and life-saving information amid Sudan’s ongoing civil war.
The announcement was made on Thursday by the UNESCO, ahead of this year’s World Press Freedom Day.
The Syndicate was honoured for its role in defending press freedom and condemning attacks on journalists during the conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces, which erupted in April 2023 and has triggered a severe humanitarian and displacement crisis.
According to UNESCO, the organisation has documented at least 32 journalist deaths, more than 550 violations against media workers, and the shutdown of numerous media outlets—making Sudan one of the most dangerous places in the world to practise journalism.
UNESCO Director-General Khaled El-Enany commended the Syndicate’s resilience and dedication.
“Despite immense challenges, they continue to deliver accurate, lifesaving information to their communities when it matters most,” he said, describing their efforts as vital to truth, accountability, and peace.
Chair of the Syndicate, Abdelmoniem Ali, said the award recognises not only the organisation but all Sudanese journalists working under dangerous conditions.
He noted that the honour underscores the importance of independent journalism in defending democratic values and amplifying the voices of civilians affected by war.
The conflict has severely disrupted media operations in Sudan, with widespread destruction of infrastructure, threats to journalists, and frequent internet blackouts creating what UNESCO described as a “zone of silence.”
In response, UNESCO has supported journalists through initiatives such as the Sudanese Media Forum and the establishment of safe spaces in Port Sudan, while also assisting dozens of media workers with relocation and other forms of aid.
The UNESCO/Guillermo Cano World Press Freedom Prize, established in 1997, honours individuals or organisations that have made outstanding contributions to press freedom, particularly in the face of danger. It is named after Colombian journalist Guillermo Cano Isaza, who was assassinated in 1986.
The award comes as global press freedom faces increasing challenges. A recent UNESCO report highlights a decline in freedom of expression worldwide, alongside rising self-censorship and legal harassment of journalists.
UNESCO is expected to host a global press freedom conference in Lusaka, Zambia, where governments and civil society groups will be urged to strengthen support for independent journalism and the free flow of information.
