The standards for international news organisations and freelance reporters were released on February 12 in a document endorsed by major news organisations and media advocacy groups around the world including INSI. Our research has shown that 105 journalists died in 2014, the majority of whom were local reporters, though international freelancers including James Foley and Steven Sotloff also lost their lives in Syria. Their murderers enjoyed near total impunity with virtually no legal proceedings taking place against any of the perpetrators. 2015 began with the murders of 22 of our colleagues. “In such a dark time for journalists, INSI welcomes these international standards for safety. We hope they will provide a guiding light to all members of the industry to help them stay safe and recognise the crucial role that freelancers play,” said INSI director Hannah Storm. Seven basic standards for journalists on dangerous assignments include ensuring they are trained in first aid, have adequate insurance and proper protective equipment. News organisations are urged to treat journalists and freelancers they use on a regular basis in a similar manner to the way they treat staffers when it comes to issues of safety training, first aid and other safety equipment, and responsibility in the event of injury or kidnap. INSI is proud to join the following organisations in endorsing these standards. Agence France Presse The Associated Press Bloomberg British Broadcasting Corporation Committee to Protect Journalists Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma Frontline Club Frontline Freelance Register Global Journalist Security GlobalPost The GroundTruth Project Guardian News & Media Group International Center for Journalists James W. Foley Legacy Foundation International Press Institute McClatchy DC Miami Herald National Union of Journalists-Philippines Newsweek Overseas Press Club of America Overseas Press Club Foundation PBS Frontline Public Radio International's The World Pulitzer Center on Crisis Reporting Reporters Instructed in Saving Colleagues Reporters Without Borders Reuters Rory Peck Trust USA Today