- United Nations Security Council Resolution 2222 (2015) highlights the need for greater protection of journalists in conflict zones and calls on all parties to respect their status as civilians.
- Having personal protective equipment (PPE) which include bulletproof vests, helmets, and other protective gear, especially in conflict zones is essential.
- The safety of journalists in crises and emergencies is crucial for ensuring the free flow of information and accountability in times of crises and emergencies.
The safety of journalists during crises and emergencies is a critical issue that has gained increasing attention over the years.
Journalists play a vital role in informing the public and providing accurate information during conflicts, natural disasters, pandemics, and other emergencies. However, their work often exposes them to significant risks.
Journalists in crisis and emergency zones are vulnerable to a wide range of threats like:
Physical violence which includes being targeted by armed groups, security forces, or individuals who may see journalists as threats to their agenda. Kidnappings, torture, and killings are unfortunately not uncommon.
Legal threats whereby in some regions, governments may use emergency powers to detain or harass journalists, especially those reporting on sensitive or controversial topics.
Digital security threats in which cyberattacks, hacking and digital surveillance can compromise the safety of journalists, especially those working on sensitive investigations. Online harassment and threats are also common, particularly for female journalists.
Psychological stress whereby journalists get exposure to traumatic events, such as war or disaster aftermath that can lead to psychological trauma, burnout, and other mental health issues.
Health risks where journalists covering pandemics, natural disasters, or regions with poor sanitation can get exposed to serious health risks, including infectious diseases.
There are several international frameworks aimed at protecting journalists like:
United Nations Security Council Resolution 2222 (2015) which highlights the need for greater protection of journalists in conflict zones and calls on all parties to respect their status as civilians.
Geneva Conventions whereby journalists in war zones are considered civilians and are thus protected under the Geneva Conventions, provided they do not engage in combat activities.
International Human Rights Law which includes the right to freedom of expression and access to information, which are crucial for journalists’ work.
Despite these protections, enforcement remains a challenge, especially in regions where the rule of law is weak or non-existent.
To address the risks, many organisations have developed guidelines and safety protocols for journalists covering crises like:
Pre-assignment training where media houses often provide training on risk assessment, conflict management, first aid, and digital security.
Having personal protective equipment (PPE) which include bulletproof vests, helmets, and other protective gear, especially in conflict zones.
Psychological support whereby some organisations offer counselling services and peer support networks to help journalists cope with the mental toll of their work.
Digital security measures where encrypting communications, using secure messaging apps, and maintaining cybersecurity hygiene are critical for protecting journalists and their sources.
Journalists covering crises should consider the following best practices to enhance their safety like:
Risk assessment where journalists should conduct a thorough risk assessment before embarking on assignments in volatile regions. This includes understanding the local context, identifying potential threats, and having an exit strategy.
Local contacts whereby journalists should try to establish trusted local contacts that can provide crucial support and information about the situation on the ground.
Communication plans in which journalists should set up secure communication channels and establish regular check-ins with their editors or support networks.
Provide insurance whereby journalists should have specialised insurance policies can cover health, evacuation, and accidental death, which are critical for journalists working in high-risk areas.
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The safety of journalists in crises and emergencies is crucial for ensuring the free flow of information and accountability.
Protecting journalists is not just about safeguarding individual lives but also about upholding the principles of freedom of the press and the public’s right to information.
Collaboration among media organisations, governments, NGOs, and the international community is essential to create safer working environments for journalists around the world.
