Executive Committee Statement on U.S. Election Day 2024

On one of the most divisive Election Days in living memory for the United States, the Board of Directors of the International Women’s Media Foundation (IWMF) calls on the nation to protect the Fourth Estate and uphold the constitutional right to freedom of the press in the coming days.

Extremist rhetoric across the political spectrum has increasingly targeted the media, spurring threats and attacks against journalists. In a recent IWMF survey of U.S.-based journalists, 36% of respondents reported being threatened with or experiencing physical violence while working as a journalist; much of this violence occurred at political rallies, protests or riots.

The intent to silence journalists cannot become the norm. Our press plays a vital role in securing democracy by ensuring the truth is told and power is held to account. We ask all civilians and authorities to allow journalists to report freely and safely on the election.

Signed,
The Executive Committee of the International Women’s Media Foundation Board of Directors