Canada: IFJ pays tribute to Peter Murdoch (1946-2025), a defender of international solidarity

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) was deeply saddened to learn of the passing of our colleague Peter Murdoch, a leading figure in the Canadian media trade union movement and a long-standing, committed member of our organisation. He died at the age of 79.

As a journalist, Peter Murdoch dedicated his career to defending the rights of media workers, first within the Canadian union Unifor (and previously the Communications, Energy and Paperworkers Union of Canada), and later on the international stage.

He attended several IFJ Congresses and regularly served as the North American representative on the Executive Committees. His commitment was also reflected in his active involvement in a number of IFJ projects, notably in Africa and Latin America, where he helped strengthen trade unions.

Peter Murdoch was also involved in sensitive missions, notably in Iraq, where he supported the IFJ's efforts to defend journalists in difficult and dangerous conditions.

Throughout his trade union career, he fought against media concentration and for press freedom, while placing particular emphasis on mentoring and training new generations of trade union activists.

The IFJ extends its deepest condolences to his family and his loved ones in Canada.