UNESCO is the lead UN Agency for promoting freedom of expression and safety of journalists as part of its mandate to “promote the free flow of ideas by word and image”.
Leen d'Haenens
Full Professor at Institute for Media Studies, KU Leuven
Media for Democracy Monitor (online) harassment (women/minority) journalists intimidation
Together with my colleagues, Alice Baroni (University of Padova) and Janet Lo (Hong Kong Baptist University), I explored the magnitude of the problem in the 18 participating countries of the Media for Democracy Monitor 2021 (MDM), and the extent to which (online) harassment of (women) journalists is threatening democracy. In a chapter in the 2021 MDM book, we provided an overview of the international discussion on different forms of violence against (women) journalists. We focused on the nexus between the extension of (online) harassment and intimidation of journalists in the MDM countries, and the normative frameworks and support mechanisms adopted by leading news media and journalists’ professional bodies to protect and support (women) journalists against (online) harassment. We also discussed how (online) violence against (women) journalists is threatening democracy.
Definition of journalists' safety
The safety of journalists can be defined as the extent to which they can fulfill their roles of journalism without fear of harm or reprisal. This includes protection from physical violence, harassment, intimidation, and censorship that could prevent them from collecting, processing and disseminating credible and quality information; exposing abuse of power and wrongdoing; promoting social change and collaboration with the state. Ensuring the safety of journalists is critical for the effective functioning of democracy and the free flow of information.Future plans for research on journalists' safety
Examining the psychological and emotional impact of (online) harassment as well as potential solutions to mitigate its effects. Assessing the effectiveness of current safety protocols and initiatives aimed at protecting journalists, including the use of protective gear, training programs, and legal protections. Exploring the intersection of gender, race, and safety in journalism. Investigating the role of technology in promoting journalist safety: e.g., the use of secure communication channels and real-time tracking of journalists in dangerous situations.- Research focuses:
- Physical, Psychological, Digital, Legal
- Methods used in research:
- Interviews
- Countries of research focus:
- 18 mature democracies as defined in the Media for Democracy Monitor 2021
