Honduras faces crisis of violence and impunity against journalists

Journalists and communicators in Honduras face a persistent crisis of violence and impunity. Over the last decade, more than 100 journalists have been murdered, 154 have been displaced, and 21 have been criminalized.

Specific cases highlight the dangers faced by those reporting on local issues. Gabriel Hernández was assassinated by gang members working for politicians after criticizing local officials in Nacaome. Nery Orellana was killed in 2011 while reporting on health decentralization conflicts in Lempira. Geovanny Sierra suffered severe injuries from a gunshot by penitentiary police, leading to forced exile and a lack of legal recourse.

The violence extends to various sectors, including community communicators from indigenous and peasant backgrounds who face intimidation and harassment, as well as female journalists who have been physically assaulted by the Presidential Honor Guard.