September 18, 2024 - New Zealand, Wellington, Hutt Valley

Women Press Freedom commends the court's ruling to convict Rosie Morunga, who attacked an NZME journalist outside a courthouse. Despite the substantial 18-month sentence, the potential for almost immediate release, considering time served awaiting sentencing, raises concerns about accountability for violent behavior.

Ensuring the safety of journalists is crucial, and incidents such as this underscore the dangers they encounter while fulfilling their essential duties.

We call for a stricter sentence for the offender and enhanced safeguards to protect journalists.