Press release
UNESCO Director-General condemns killing of social media producer Jorge Méndez Pardo in Colombia
I condemn the killing of Jorge Méndez Pardo and call for an investigation to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice. Social media producers like Jorge must be protected alongside journalists, given their critical role in providing information to audiences.
Jorge Méndez Pardo, also known as “Jeykon el líder”, was a well-known local social media producer and ran a Facebook page La Gabarra con una imagen diferente. He was reportedly shot and his body was found next to his vehicle.
UNESCO promotes the safety of journalists through global awareness-raising, capacity building and by coordinating the implementation of the UN Plan of Action on the Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity.
About UNESCO
With 194 Member States, the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization contributes to peace and security by leading multilateral cooperation on education, science, culture, communication and information. Headquartered in Paris, UNESCO has offices in 54 countries and employs over 2300 people. UNESCO oversees more than 2000 World Heritage sites, Biosphere Reserves and Global Geoparks; networks of Creative, Learning, Inclusive and Sustainable Cities; and over 13 000 associated schools, university chairs, training and research institutions. Its Director-General is Audrey Azoulay.
“Since wars begin in the minds of men, it is in the minds of men that the defenses of peace must be constructed” – UNESCO Constitution, 1945.
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