Our Mission

The Committee to Protect Journalists promotes press freedom worldwide and defends the right of journalists to report the news safely and without fear of reprisal. CPJ protects the free flow of news and commentary by taking action wherever journalists are under threat.

Our Values

As an organization founded by journalists, we use the tools of journalism to protect those engaged in acts of journalism. Our credibility rests on a bedrock of accuracy, transparency, fairness, accountability, and independence. Journalist safety is our top priority.

We believe freedom of expression is the foundation for all other human rights. Violations of press freedom often occur in a broader context — including discrimination and oppression based on political beliefs, race, ethnicity, religion, gender identity, sexual orientation, and socio-economic standing. As enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, every person has the right to freedom of opinion and of expression, regardless of their nationality or identity. Access to independent information enables all people to make decisions and hold the powerful to account. 

CPJ is committed to values of equity and free expression in our internal practices as well. As an organization headquartered in the United States, we aspire to build a diverse workplace, and to foster an inclusive and welcoming environment. As an international organization, we strive for our people to be representative of the global community on which we report, and to equip them with the opportunities and resources they need to learn and succeed.