Towards a national day for murdered journalists: remembrance as a commitment to press freedom

The unanimous approval of the Chamber of Deputies with 211 votes in favour of the bill signed by Fi deputy Paolo Emilio Russo to establish a national day in memory of journalists killed in the performance of their profession. The text now passes to the Senate for consideration. The day dedicated to murdered journalists will be 3 May. A symbolic date to remember those who have paid with their lives for their commitment to truth and freedom of information, too often in the front line against mafias, wars and corruption.

The proposal stems from the bipartisan desire to pay tribute to figures such as Giancarlo Siani, killed by the Camorra at the age of just 26, or Ilaria Alpi and Miran Hrovatin, murdered in Somalia while investigating illegal trafficking. Franco Di Mare, who died of asbestos particles breathed in during the years he was a war correspondent in the Balkans. And Peppino Impastato, Mauro Rostagno, Giuseppe Fava, to name but a few. Women and men who believed in journalism as an instrument of justice and change, challenging silences and connivance. The intent of the law is to transform memory into civic education, to remember not only to honour, but to form citizens aware of the value of free and courageous information.

The proposal foresees that, on the occasion of the National Day, schools, local authorities, universities and newspapers can promote meetings, debates, screenings and educational activities dedicated to the issue of press freedom and the safety of journalists. It will not be a celebration, but a moment of collective reflection and participation. "Remembering the murdered journalists," reads the introductory report, "means reaffirming the right of all citizens to be informed, and denouncing the conditions in which, even today, so many reporters live under threat".

According to data from Reporters Without Borders, dozens of journalists around the world are killed each year for their work. Even in Italy, despite a democratic framework, many journalists work under escort, suffer threats, intimidation or reckless lawsuits. The proposal is also intended as a signal against this escalation of pressure, reminding us that free journalism is a pillar of democracy.

The proposal is now in the Culture Commission and is gaining cross-party support. The hope is that it can be approved within the year, perhaps with a view to a first celebration as early as 2026.