How state agents target journalists while governments claim to protect them – stark warnings from Mexico and Honduras

Humberto Padgett, a Mexican investigative journalist, was covering the impact of drought in Cuitzeo, a rural area in central Mexico, when he was confronted by armed individuals on September 13, 2024. They menaced him, stole his car, identity papers, and work equipment, including two bullet-proof vests. Padgett, who was reporting for national talk radio station Radio Fórmula on Mexico’s environmental concerns, announced on social media that he was quitting journalism indefinitely after 26 years due to the losses, harassment, threats, and neglect he and his family faced.

Even with being part of a government protection program for journalists, like many in Mexico and Honduras, Padgett continued to face threats and attacks, with many coming from state employees. Despite promises from the leftwing governments in both countries to safeguard journalists, the risk has intensified in recent years due to various factors such as online attacks, increased anti-media rhetoric, and the use of spyware.

Efforts by journalists to protect themselves include forming support organizations and international collaborations, seeking professional training, and establishing independent media outlets. However, the hostile environment towards the press in Mexico and Honduras, fueled by government hostility and funding cuts from the US, poses a significant threat to the safety and freedom of journalists in the region. Despite the challenges, journalists like Padgett and Wendy Funes remain determined to continue their investigative work, offering hope for a free and independent media landscape in their countries and beyond.