Northern Ireland: Death threat against journalist highlight deepening 'climate of fear'

A journalist working for the Mediahuis group has been informed by police of a credible threat to their life. The Police Service of Northern Ireland (PSNI) warned that they could not rule out the use of firearms or corrosive substances in a potential attack, which they assessed could take place at the journalist’s home or workplace. The journalist has also been warned to take precautionary measures in response to the threat.

The threat has reportedly been linked to an individual with a criminal record who has previously been identified as a senior member of a paramilitary organisation.

Responding to the threat, Patrick Corrigan, Amnesty International’s Northern Ireland Director, said:

“This latest sinister threat against a journalist in Northern Ireland is utterly unacceptable and must be unequivocally condemned. It represents a clear and deliberate attempt to intimidate journalists and obstruct them from carrying out their vital work - a direct attack on press freedom.

“If journalists are intimidated into silence, then everyone’s right to know is undermined.

“Amnesty International’s recent research has highlighted that journalists in Northern Ireland, particularly those investigating paramilitary and organised criminal activity, have been forced to operate in a sustained climate of fear, facing persistent and credible threats from armed groups.

“It is deeply concerning that, despite the regularity and seriousness of these threats from paramilitary and organised crime groups, there have been no arrests or prosecutions. This failure risks creating a culture of impunity.

“The PSNI has a clear responsibility to ensure that journalists can work safely and without fear. Amnesty will be raising these concerns directly with senior officers and pressing for urgent action.”

Occupational Hazard: Protect journalists in Northern Ireland Report

Amnesty recently published research highlighting the hostile environment faced by journalists in Northern Ireland. The report found that those investigating paramilitary activity, organised crime and corruption are frequently subjected to threats, intimidation and surveillance.

Journalists described operating in a “climate of fear”, with some reporting threats against themselves and their families. The research also raised concerns about the lack of effective investigations into such threats, contributing to a perception of impunity for those responsible.

Amnesty has called for stronger protections for journalists, more robust investigations into threats, and clear accountability to ensure that media workers can carry out their work safely and without intimidation.