IAB CONDEMNS ATTACK ON JOURNALISTS IN BRAZIL
ASOCIACIÓN INTERNACIONAL DE RADIODIFUSIÓN | AIR
IAB CONDEMNS ATTACK ON JOURNALISTS IN BRAZIL
The International Association of Broadcasting (IAB) strongly condemns the attack on Jéssica
Aquino, a reporter for TV Arapuan (a Band affiliate in Paraíba) which occurred while she was
broadcasting live from the Central Market in João Pessoa on Friday, May 29, 2026.
The journalist was ambushed and physically assaulted during the broadcast of the programme
Tribuna Livre, being pushed and struck, which forced her to interrupt her segment in a state of
shock. The reporter later confirmed that she was physically unharmed, though emotionally
shaken.
As established in Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression No. 9 of the Inter-American
Commission on Human Rights, intimidation, threats, or violence against media professionals, as
well as attacks against media outlets, constitute serious violations of fundamental rights and
severely restrict freedom of expression. Furthermore, it is the responsibility of States to prevent,
investigate, and punish such acts.
The IAB urges Brazilian authorities to promptly investigate the incident and to ensure adequate
security conditions for the practice of journalism throughout the country. The IAB also expresses
its solidarity with Jéssica Aquino, TV Arapuan, and all media professionals who work to defend
society’s right to be informed.
AIR on Line 1752-37/2026 June 1, 2026
IAB | INTERNATIONAL ASSOCIATION OF BROADCASTING