The Rights of Palestinian Journalists in Light the Rules and Provisions of International Law: The Case of the Palestinian Journalist as a Model

Abstract

International humanitarian law and international human rights law recognize the need to provide special protection for journalists and media professionals, as outlined in the four Geneva Conventions and their Additional Protocols. These instruments oblige parties to armed conflicts to take preventive measures to protect journalists and media workers and to prevent all forms of aggression against them. International law also obliges states worldwide to accede to relevant international agreements and to comply with their provisions, thereby ensuring respect for these obligations at both the international and national levels.

This study examines the international legal framework for protecting journalists and media institutions under international humanitarian law, highlighting their rights at both local and international levels It assesses the effectiveness of international treaties in providing practical protection and highlights the serious violations faced by journalists in Palestine.

The study finds that international agreements lack a precise definition of "journalist," that protection is maintained as long as journalists avoid hostile acts, and that they benefit from fundamental humanitarian principles when performing dangerous tasks. Violations persist due to the absence of an effective international judicial mechanism.

Accordingly, the study recommends developing Palestinian media legislation in line with international standards, enhancing journalists’ legal awareness, establishing a Palestinian committee with international expertise to address crimes against journalists, expanding the scope of the Second Protocol, and creating a new additional protocol to ensure broader protection for journalists and their offices