Journalists' Syndicate Rejects Exclusion and Arbitrary Dismissal Policies Against Journalists

SadaNews - The Palestinian Journalists' Syndicate announced its firm rejection of the policies adopted by some channels and media institutions against journalists, which involve terminating their services or marginalizing them suddenly and without clear professional justifications, in glaring disregard for their rights and the extent of sacrifices they have made in the field.

The syndicate stated in a statement issued today, Monday, that the Palestinian journalist, who works in exceptional and dangerous conditions, cannot be treated as a burden that can be dispensed with; rather, he is a fundamental partner in conveying the truth, having paid a heavy price with his blood, security, and stability in the performance of his media mission.

The syndicate sees these policies as a violation of professional and humanitarian standards, and contrary to the simplest rules of job justice, especially when fateful decisions are made concerning journalists without prior notification or clarification, or guarantees for their legal and living rights.

In this context, the syndicate confirmed its complete rejection of exclusion and marginalization policies and arbitrary termination of services, calling on media institutions to adhere to standards of justice and transparency in managing their personnel, and to ensure the full rights of journalists, including job security and professional appreciation, while respecting the unique circumstances in which the Palestinian journalist works and valuing their ongoing sacrifices.

The syndicate called on all media institutions to review their policies and align with the values of professionalism and fairness, in a manner that preserves the dignity of journalists and enhances their role in delivering their message. It also urged fellow journalists who are subjected to exclusion or arbitrary dismissal policies to file official complaints with it, in order to pursue them legally and union-wise, and take necessary action to ensure their justice and restore their rights.

The syndicate confirmed that it will not hesitate to take practical and decisive action against any entity that violates journalists' rights, including announcing the names of institutions that do not adhere to professional standards and do not consider the rights of their employees, in acknowledgment of rights and enhancing the principle of accountability. It emphasized that it will remain the protective shield for journalists' rights and will monitor these policies by all union and legal means in defense of the dignity of the profession and its members.