At its 75th world congress held in Vienna, the International Press Institute (IPI), together with International Media Support (IMS), posthumously awarded Palestinian journalist Maryam Abu Daqqa the prestigious “World Press Freedom Hero” prize in recognition of her bravery and sacrifice while covering the war in Gaza. Her story stands as an enduring symbol of journalistic courage under fire.
A Journalist Who Never Backed Down
Maryam Abu Daqqa served as a correspondent for outlets including Independent Arabia and the Associated Press, and was dedicated to documenting the realities faced by Palestinians under siege in Gaza. Her work brought images and stories of suffering, displacement and resistance from one of the world’s most dangerous reporting zones. On 25 August 2025 she was martyred in an air-strike by the Israeli military on the hospital in Khan Younis, southern Gaza.
The Award: Recognition of Ultimate Sacrifice
During the IPI’s 75th anniversary event in Vienna, Maryam’s name was announced among seven recipients worldwide of the “World Press Freedom Hero” award for 2025. The announcement cited how she “repeatedly risked her life to document, through her camera, the ongoing atrocities in Gaza”, and noted that “her martyrdom — for which no one has been held accountable — exemplifies the perilous conditions for Gaza’s journalists”. The award had last year been given collectively to journalists covering Gaza; this year, the decision to single out Maryam continues to underscore her individual act of bravery.
A Symbol of Press Freedom in Conflict
Maryam’s story resonates far beyond the tragic end of one life. It highlights the realities faced by dozens of journalists covering the Gaza war — including “targeted attacks, displacement and starvation” according to IPI’s statement. Reports indicate that since the beginning of the Gaza war, more than 250 journalists have been killed by the Israeli forces — making this the deadliest conflict for media workers in 160 years. Her voice now lives on as a call to protect press freedom and affirm that no truth-seeker should be silenced.
What This Means Going Forward
By honouring Maryam Abu Daqqa, the IPI and IMS are amplifying the urgent need for strengthened safeguards for journalists — especially those operating in war zones and under siege. Her recognition reaffirms that truth-telling in the face of danger remains a fundamental pillar of media freedom. The award, given at the Congress in Vienna, also serves as a reminder that the work of journalists is not a privilege but a responsibility—and that societies must stand in defence of those who risk everything to report in our name.
From: IRNA