The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate has documented a significant escalation in attacks on media professionals, with 67 violations recorded in 2025, including the killing of at least 14 journalists and media workers. This brings the total number of documented violations since the outbreak of war to 590. The syndicate’s latest report highlights a “systematic and organised pattern” of attacks that threaten the public’s right to information and undermine prospects for peace.
According to the report, 14 journalists were killed in 2025, with 12 of these deaths attributed to the paramilitary Rapid Support Forces (RSF). One journalist died after his health deteriorated due to torture while in detention by Sudan’s Military Intelligence. Other documented violations include enforced disappearances, arbitrary detentions, and gender-based targeting, as well as attacks on Sudanese journalists in exile, particularly in Egypt and Libya.
The city of El Fasher, capital of North Darfur, was identified as the most dangerous area for journalists in 2025. At least four journalists were killed, and several others went missing, after the RSF captured the city in October. Among the victims was Taj El Seir Ahmed Suleiman, director of Sudan News Agency in El Fasher, who was murdered in his home in late November.
The Sudanese Journalists Syndicate has expressed concern over the use of the judiciary to silence independent media through politically motivated charges. Journalists have also been targeted through hate speech, including defamation threats and institutional harassment, such as licence withdrawals and interference with union activities.
The total number of recorded violations against the press since the war’s outbreak now stands at 595. Sudan’s ranking in the annual Reporters Without Borders Press Freedom Index has also declined, dropping from 149th in 2024 to 156th out of 180 countries in 2025. The ongoing attacks on media professionals and restrictions on press freedom have significant implications for the country’s ability to promote transparency, accountability, and democratic values. As the situation continues to deteriorate, the international community is urged to take notice and support efforts to protect journalists and promote media freedom in Sudan.
