The Deputy Secretary General of the Namibia Media Professionals Union (NAMPU) expressed concern about the difficulties that journalists find themselves in, including financial hardship and the environment in which they operate.

Jemima Beukes was speaking at the commemoration of the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists in Windhoek.

She said this has put pressure on the well-being and mental health of journalists, who are in some cases underpaid and their salaries delayed.

"It is very serious because journalists are under constant threats, newsrooms are closing down, and journalists have no recourse because they don't have a union."

Some media practitioners who attended the commemoration highlighted the threats they often face in the line of duty.

NAMPU's Secretary General, Sacky Ikela, says it is disturbing that of late journalists have become newsmakers themselves instead of providing the news.

"We should be able to tie the welfare of journalists to this day as well to ensure that, when we talk about the protection of rights, we are also talking about the welfare of journalists to make sure that journalists are not exploited, to make sure that journalists are paid well, and that they are not overworked and harassed in the newsrooms."

Media practitioners have been urged to stand up for their rights and insist on their freedom.

The day was organized by the Namibia Media Professionals Union in collaboration with Festmedia Namibia.