Audrey Azoulay, Director-General of UNESCO, has condemned the killing of Lokman Slim, a prominent commentator and columnist, who was found dead in his car in Lebanon on 4 February.
I condemn the murder of Lokman Slim. I urge the Lebanese authorities to ensure that the announced investigation into his killing is comprehensive and transparent, notably to establish whether he was targeted for his journalism. It is critical to protect journalists’ right and ability to inform democratic debate.
Slim contributed articles on Lebanese politics to various newspapers and produced and directed documentary films such as Massaker (2005). He was the founder of the website Shia Watch and part owner of the Dar al-Jadeed book publishing house. In 2019, Slim issued a statement saying he had received threats.
UNESCO promotes the safety of journalists through global awareness-raising, capacity building and a range of actions, notably in the framework of the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.
- More information: UNESCO observatory of killed journalists
- Media contact: Guilherme Canela de Souza Godoi