Free Press Unlimited draws attention to journalists in Gaza during the Red Line action
A sea of red swept through the streets of Amsterdam last weekend: a quarter of a million people formed a symbolic red line to send a powerful message against Israel’s genocide in Gaza. At the heart of this impressive demonstration stood Free Press Unlimited’s white press tent, drawing attention to the extremely dangerous situation faced by journalists in Gaza and the West Bank.
Together with the Dutch Association of Journalists (NVJ), Plant an Olive Tree, and Journalists for Palestine, Free Press Unlimited joined its voice with that of more than 250,000 people. The message was clear: effective measures must be taken to stop Israel’s attacks on journalists and to ensure their safety.
Focus on journalists in Gaza
During the demonstration, Free Press Unlimited emphasized that journalists in Gaza are six times more likely to be killed than other civilians. “Journalists should receive the same protection as civilians during conflicts,” said Ruth Kronenburg, Executive Director of Free Press Unlimited.
“We, as citizens, are increasing the pressure, but politicians refuse to take effective measures against the genocide in Gaza,” she added. “Israel is deliberately silencing the voices of Gazans.”
The unprecedented and targeted violence against journalists has made Israel’s genocide in Gaza the deadliest for journalists ever documented. Since October 7, 2023, more than 237 journalists have been killed. There is verified evidence that at least 59 of them were deliberately targeted.
Since October 2023, Free Press Unlimited has supported more than 450 Palestinian journalists through its emergency fund, Reporters Respond, providing safety equipment, training, and essential tools. In addition, the Gaza City Media Solidarity Center was established in Gaza City, offering around 300 journalists access to reliable internet, charging facilities, and spaces to report live from the ground.
Powerful solidarity and engagement
The event at Museumplein left a deep impression. Visitors paused to reflect on the stories of the journalists who lost their lives and spoke with Free Press Unlimited staff and volunteers.
“It was moving to see how many people stopped by, asked questions, or made donations,” said one of the volunteers. “Some shared personal stories about family or friends in Palestine.”
Meaningful conversations, tangible support
Beyond the emotional encounters, the day also brought in concrete support. Many visitors made spontaneous donations. The level of engagement was overwhelming. People actively approached us. You could see how deeply they were affected by the fact that journalists risk their lives to bring Gaza’s story to the world.
Free Press Unlimited continues to urgently call on the Israeli authorities to ensure that journalists can do their work in Gaza without fear of death or arrest. The organization demands an end to the impunity surrounding the killings of journalists in Israel, Palestine, and Lebanon, and calls for independent, transparent, and credible investigations into these attacks.
Without independent journalism, the world risks losing sight of what is truly happening. Genocide and human rights violations go undocumented, and those in power remain unaccountable.
A red line, and a lasting message
The Red Line demonstration showed that the voice of the public is powerful and determined. A quarter of a million people literally formed a human boundary: enough is enough. For Free Press Unlimited, it was not only a moment of protest, but also one of connection and hope.
