IAPA Assembly warns of growing hostility and attacks against journalism

Punta Cana.- The 81st General Assembly of the Inter-American Press Association (IAPA) concluded this Sunday in Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, with a strong warning about the growing hostility and verbal attacks against journalism in the Americas. During the closing session, Daniel Dessein, director of La Gaceta (Argentina), cited controversial remarks by Argentine President Javier Milei, who often ends his posts on X with the phrase “we don’t hate journalists enough.” Dessein said such rhetoric symbolizes the increasing risk that official discourse poses to press freedom across the region.

The final reports from 24 countries detailed a range of challenges, including stigmatizing statements by Colombian President Gustavo Petro, and similar confrontational attitudes by the leaders of Costa Rica and Ecuador. Other concerns included economic and judicial pressure on media in Panama and Bolivia, harassment and surveillance of journalists in Cuba and El Salvador, and a deepening security crisis in Haiti. Over the past six months, at least 40 Salvadoran journalists have gone into exile due to persecution.

Despite the alarming findings, the assembly also highlighted positive developments, such as judicial rulings in Costa Rica that reinforce the right to information and a Colombian court decision recognizing crimes against journalists as attacks on democracy. In her closing remarks, Laura Gil, Assistant Secretary General of the Organization of American States (OAS), emphasized the need for moderation and dialogue within media institutions, reminding participants that democracy thrives on diverse voices.