A/HRC/27/35 importance for the promotion of human rights, the rule of law and democracy. Journalists were referred to as “the eyes and voices of civil society” who keep Governments in check. Journalists helped to ensure transparency and accountability in the management of public affairs and matters of public interest. Independent journalism was considered instrumental in strengthening the capacity of individuals to participate actively and meaningfully in political, economic, social and cultural life. Media had a role to play in educating the public and raising awareness of important public issues; it was an indispensable tool that fosters public debate. Journalism played a crucial role in mobilizing public opinion and in bringing to light injustices that could otherwise go unnoticed. Delegates called journalists the “vigilant watchdogs of civil liberties” who could give hope to people struggling under undemocratic regimes. 26. Delegations pointed out, however, that it was precisely because of this important role that journalists often and increasingly became victims of threats, attacks or murder. The safety of journalists was considered a fundamental pillar of the right to freedom of opinion and expression and of free and vibrant media. When fear prompts journalists to self-censor, the free flow of information is impaired, and the public is deprived of reliable, critical and independent information. In the absence of such information, propaganda, incitement and corruption prevail. Several speakers described attacks against journalists as attacks not only against the journalist as an individual, but also against the right of all people to seek, receive and impart information. They were also an attack against the freedom of expression and, ultimately, against democracy itself. 27. There was a broad degree of agreement among delegates that it was necessary to protect journalists, and that such protection was a priority. Speakers recalled that States had both a duty to respect and a duty to protect journalists, who should be able to carry out their work unhindered and without fear. Governments were called upon to promote a safe and enabling environment for journalists, online as well as offline, so that they could perform their work independently, without undue interference and without fear of censorship, persecution or prosecution. This required political will, as well as legal and judicial measures, but also the fostering of a culture of respect for the critical role of the media in any democracy. 28. Delegations also pointed out that threats and attacks against journalists and media workers were made not only in the context of armed conflict. Threats and attacks also came from State actors, including security forces, as well as non-State actors, including terrorist groups and criminal organizations. Speakers noted that, regardless of the circumstances, the protection of journalists should be offered in times of both peace and conflict. 29. Ms. Mijatović called it a top priority for Governments not to interfere with freedom of expression and freedom of the media in contravention with internationally agreed human rights standards, to protect against exposure to violence and to investigate violence, which has a chilling effect and gives the green light to further attacks. She added that it was also important to offer psychological support for journalists, bloggers and online activists working in conflict zones. 30. During the discussion, attention was also drawn to the heightened risk faced by women journalists, including that of being subjected to sexual violence, and the corresponding need for a gender-sensitive approach when formulating and implementing policies. Reference was made to the recently published global survey on violence and harassment against women in the news media, by the International Women’s Media Foundation and the International News Safety Institute. Several delegations expressed their support for the safety of women journalists. Mr. Engida also referred States to the 2014 UNESCO report on World Trends in Freedom of Expression, which addressed the issue of gender and freedom of expression. 9