Summary

In the present report, the Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of the right to freedom of opinion and expression focuses on journalists in exile who face a variety of physical, digital and legal threats. She analyses the responses of States and companies to these threats and challenges. She finds that international human rights and refugee law provide a strong framework to protect journalists in exile; however, the security and safety of journalists in exile remain precarious, because of the failure of States to uphold their international obligations. She makes recommendations to States, digital and media companies, international organizations and civil society to strengthen the safety of journalists and enhance the viability of independent media in exile.