Tribute to 171 fallen journalists

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Union leaders have paid tribute to the 171 journalists killed in 2007 worldwide because of their jobs.

The figure includes 65 journalists killed in Iraq, which remains the most dangerous country for the media.

Michelle Stanistreet, president of the National Union of Journalists, said the figures demonstrated the "horrific dangers" facing people in their field.

Last year a record 177 members of the media were killed during the course of their work.

Deaths included eight in Somalia, seven in Pakistan, six in Mexico and Sri Lanka and five in the Philippines.

The figures, coordinated with the International News Safety Institute, cover all journalists killed because of their work, including targeted murders, and deaths whilst covering violent events.

They also cover journalists involved in accidents whilst working on a story.

Throughout Latin America journalists are thought to have been killed for their reporting on gangs, drugs and politicians.

Ms Stanistreet said: "It's vitally important that people can get an independent view of events in countries like Iraq and Pakistan. Media organisations must do all they can to support and protect journalists working in these difficult environments.

"It is particularly shocking that in some cases killers are literally getting away with murder.

"All these cases of targeted killings should be fully investigated and the perpetrators brought to justice."