Safety monitoring of journalists in Bolivia

The National Association of Journalists of Bolivia (ANPB), the Association of Journalists of La Paz (APLP), and the Foundation for Journalism, with the support of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) through its International Programme for the Development of Communication (IPDC), launch the Journalist Protection Monitoring System (SISMOPP) in Bolivia. 

This project aims to generate open data and evidence on the violations and security conditions in which journalists and media professionals work, fostering a national debate on their protection amid increasing violence and impunity. 

The Monitoring System for the Protection of Journalists in Bolivia will complement existing tools such as the alerts published by the National Press Association (ANP) and the reports from UNITAS, by providing a structured database with variables and indicators that will enable a detailed analysis of attacks on journalists and progress in their protection. 

This system will integrate open data and a repository of updated information, facilitating access for researchers, analysts, and key stakeholders in the defense of press freedom. Additionally, it will include a specific focus on violations against women journalists, aiming to strengthen training initiatives and policy advocacy. 

The system will be coordinated with the ANP to enhance the analysis of recorded violations and generate more comprehensive and accessible information for public debate. “Coordination is essential to create synergies in the face of a direct attack on journalists’ work, which has normalized impunity” stated Raúl Novillo, president of the APLP.

Meanwhile, Zulema Alanes, president of the ANPB, emphasized: “It is crucial not only to document attacks but also to train our colleagues on the importance of prevention and protection mechanisms. In such an adverse context, we need to create spaces for dialogue and reflection on these issues.” 

SISMOPP is aligned with UNESCO’s international standards within the framework for the journalist protection model based on preventing, protecting, and procuring justice (PPP). Key actions include preparation of periodic reports, training spaces, and developing public policy guidelines to strengthen the journalist safety in Bolivia. 

International concern over the rising violence against the press in Bolivia has increased, especially after emblematic cases such as the kidnapping and attempted murder of seven journalists in Las Londras, Santa Cruz, in 2021, a fact that reflects the lack of investigation and punishment in these attacks.

“A free and safe press is essential for democracy. We are committed to raising awareness and discussing these issues at different levels, including the government, to ensure that freedom of expression and journalistic work are respected and protected in Bolivia.” concluded Renán Estenssoro, Executive Director of the Foundation for Journalism