A journalist reporting in emergencies – disasters as well as armed violence – faces a number of dilemmas, having implications both personal and professional. How does this journalist or a photojournalist objectively cover sensitive subjects and complex situations? On what basis does she or he decide whether the story is worth the risks involved? How does a reporter ensure that the identity of certain individuals is protected? To what extent does one pursue a victim/survivor to talk and share critical information?

These and many more questions were recently discussed and deliberated upon at the Delhi Media Workshop organised by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) New Delhi regional delegation. The participants – journalists reporting on a range of issues for publication across the country – had the opportunity to interact with a panel of veterans from the media as well as legal fraternity. Sessions conducted over two days covered various themes such as reporting on vulnerable populations including women and the differently-abled, coping with injuries while reporting, understanding the basics of International Humanitarian Law, and ethical perspectives from the frontline, among others.

Here is what they had to say about the enriching experience:

 

More for Journalists:

ICRC-PII Annual Awards for Journalists Reporting on Humanitarian Issues