Over 160 journalists have died reporting in Iraq since the war began. 32 of the deaths were in 2006 alone, contributing over half the overall worldwide toll of 55 – the highest since records began. More information can be found here.
Reading all this mess made me wonder: how important is the news?
Knowing what is going on is one thing, but risking your life so that you can report live from the center of Baghdad for the Ten O’Clock news is another.
My Dad asked me the other day, Christmas day in fact, if I would take the opportunity to work in a warzone. I said yes, but now I’m not so sure. As the saying goes: “Today’s news is tomorrows chipwrap” … or something along those lines.
So is it worth it? Really?
