by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Journalists have been cautioned to be sensitive on reporting conflicts, as whatever they write today will not only affect them but will also affect the next generation.
This note of caution was voiced by Programme Manager of Amnesty International, Barbara Magaji, during the opening of a two days’ ‘Amnesty International Media Training’ in Plateau State for members of the Correspondent Chapel on Monday, which held at Crispan Hotel Jos, with the theme: ‘Human Rights Centered Journalism.’
She disclosed that, “Media plays a critical part in building consensus and reporting conflicts. The media plays an active part in constructing a narrative for the reader. So, how can we shape the narrative which is the most important?
“We have to be sensitive on reporting conflicts – by providing verifiable, accurate accounts of human rights conditions affecting vulnerable survivors and at-risk groups, while preventing secondary victimization through sensitive reporting,” she disclosed.
While she urged journalists to avoid inflammatory narratives or images that could escalate tensions, the programme manager emphasized the importance of avoiding further harm or trauma to the survivors through sensitive reporting.
While she tasked journalists to sustain awareness on the issues of human rights rule of law, transparency, accountability and inclusion, Barbara Magaji stressed that, “News Organizations should prioritize journalists’ safety and provide regular training and resources safety early warning and early response mechanism and conflict-analysis, and request for security cover, if need be.”
She called on government to strengthen laws and policies to protect journalists and hold perpetrators of violence against journalists accountable, but urged journalists to “be aware of working surroundings, respect the people’s custom/culture and take proactive measures to assess and mange risks.”
Also speaking in a paper, ‘Gender Sensitive Reporting in Nigeria,’ Dr. Plangsat Dayil called on journalists to be gender-sensitive in reporting image visuals, urging them to “use images that show diverse gender role and identities.”
“Avoid reinforcing gender stereotypes through photos on women only shown in care-giving roles; ensure equal visual representation of gender in coverage, use the position (as a journalist) to correct and respect when you are reporting; do it correctly to give the right avenue.”
Speaking also, Chairman of the Correspondent Chapel of the NUJ Plateau State, Polycarp Auta, said “The training comes at a crucial time when the role of the media in safeguarding human rights has never been more vital.”
While thanking Amnesty International for painstakingly committing its time and resources to organise the training for journalists, Polycarp Auta encouraged members to actively participate, ask questions, and take full advantage of the opportunity to deepen their understanding and sharpen their reporting skills.
“Journalists are often the first to witness and report on human rights abuses, serving as essential gatekeepers, who ensure that accurate and just information reaches the public.
“Their work shines a spotlight on injustices, mobilizing public awareness and political will to demand accountability and redress. Without a strong, well-trained media, society risks losing its voice against oppression and violations of human dignity,” he noted.
“This training will no doubt equip us with the knowledge, skills, and ethical frameworks necessary to report on human rights issues responsibly and effectively,” Polycarp Auta stated.