United Nations Population Fund Agency have called on media practitioners to consider basic ethical and safety principles while reporting Gender Based Violence in Nigeria.
UNFPA Deputy Representative in Nigeria, Erika Godson made the disclosure at a 2 day media capacity training in Abuja.
She added that there is need to consider the safety, confidentiality and dignity of Gender Based Violence survivors while reporting their stories.
The Deputy Representative also noted that the welfare of the families, the communities, and those who are trying to help the survivors need to be considered.
” Failure to adhere to ethical principles puts women and girls, families and care providers at risk.
Media reporting on sexual and other forms of gender-based violence facilitates greater advocacy with stakeholders such as decision makers and communities to ensure protection of survivors and those that are at risk of GBV.”
She charged Journalist to change the narrative by given proper in-depth report on Gender Based Violence.
Media consultant, Senator Iroegbu, said
human angle stories is the best form of writing that can highlight the plight of survivors, without blaming them.
In the same vein, Iroegbu charged Journalist to be conversant with the use of social media, through which the citizens can have access to their stories.
Speaking further, Aduke Obelawo, disclosed that there is need to understand the governnace structure of each community, in order to determine the type of message on Gender Based Violence.
She advised Journalist to always ask pertinent questions that will promote effective reporting.
She added that Federal Government has put in place several initiative to end Female Genital Mutilation in Nigeria .
