AIBD/IOM/WHO Regional Virtual Webinar

on

Media Matters:  Dispelling Disinformation About Migrants & Refugees

9^th, 16^th & 23^rd March 2021 (Every Tuesday of the week)

2:00 pm – 3.30 pm (Malaysian Time)

Project Outline

Registration Link: https://bit.ly/3k3TTcz

INTRODUCTION

 Although many communities around the world have responded to COVID-19 with strong cooperation and solidarity, some have however, used it as a pretext to scapegoat refugees, migrants and the most vulnerable, blaming them for the spread of COVID-19.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stigma can drive people to hide their illness to avoid discrimination, preventing them from seeking immediate health care which is not only in their own best interests but also of the wider community.

In the longer term, stigmatization and discrimination can negatively impact the ability of refugees, migrants and vulnerable population to integrate into society.  This not only undermines their wellbeing, but more broadly, that of receiving communities which benefit from their diverse contributions to social cohesion.

Media play a crucial roles in combating disinformation towards migrants and refugees who are the vulnerable groups that need equal “social protection” from a humanitarian ground.

AIMS

The proposed webinar is to enlighten media professionals, mainly journalists, editors, producers and presenters to play a crucial and critical role in shaping public perceptions of these issues by providing facts, insight and balanced information.  It is important to avoid the use of stereotypical, negative expressions that can create or increase stigma, and focus on inclusive language.

OBJECTIVES

• To ensure accurate information on vulnerable groups.
• To promote ethical, balanced reporting, stigma-free and avoid stereotypical language on vulnerable groups.
• To promote inclusive approach in reducing prejudice and promoting social cohesion of vulnerable groups especially during the current COVID-19 pandemic.

 EXPECTED OUTCOMES

At the end of the webinar, the participants are able to:

• Understand better the negative impact of social stigma towards the migrants and vulnerable groups;
• To amplify the voices of these vulnerable groups to focus on stories by humanizing their experiences and struggles;
• It is also part of the Media’s engagement to provide “social protection” in combating disinformation towards migrant and vulnerable groups that have been aggravated in the context of the Covid-19 pandemic;
• Creating awareness-raising campaign by media to disseminating insightful information for the mass audience and listeners through their balanced and fair reporting; and
• Producing one journalist in each media organization who is specialized on migrant issues.

 Participant profile (60 participants)

• Media professionals mainly journalists, editors, programme producers, presenters of Radio and Television stations;
• Risk communication practitioners, communication officers, writers, bloggers and social media managers at mainstream and/or independent media agencies;
• Print media like newspapers, columnists, and others.
• Fluently in English both in speaking and writing

 Platform

Via Zoom virtual platform