AIBD/IPDC In-Country Workshop on Safety for Journalists

BACKGROUND

With the advent of technology in 21st century, our world has become a global village, the canvas of journalism has expanded a lot during these years, but so has its challenges.

According to the UN’s Plan of Action on Safety of Journalists and the Issue of Impunity, globally every five days, a journalist is killed on field, while bringing information to the public. Working in natural disaster prone areas, war zones, and many other non-conflict situations created by organized crime groups, militia, security personnel and even police at times, make local journalists vulnerable. Journalists in Asia-Pacific experiencing natural disasters or conflict zones should be equipped with the necessary knowledge and skills for their own protection.

The aim of this workshop is to train participants from broadcasting organisations, especially working in such hostile situations, on the necessary skills for preparedness, and how to overcome hostile situations while reporting for their organisations.

OBJECTIVES

At the end of the workshop the participants will be able to:

• Learn journalistic safety and risks for on-field reporters
• Develop necessary steps of preparedness for personal safety during hostile situations (i.e. man- made or natural disasters)
• Learn how to assess the risk, responding to it and securing information
• Be aware of the impact of trauma on journalists and newsrooms Understand the issues related to human rights, humanitarian laws and confrontation.