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MEDIA AND JOURNALISM WEBINARS 2024

Session 5: Introducing Media and Press Freedom Organizations

5 June 2024 | Wednesday | 10am - 11:30am (EST)

Media and Journalism Webinars emphasize experiential and hands-on learning through intensive training and interactive discussions with professional journalists for field experience. This program aims to prepare journalism students and young professionals to succeed in their professional careers while fostering experiential learning by translating knowledge and skills into experience. Your active and meaningful participation with questions and reflections will make the discussion more productive.

In this session, participants engaged in interactive discussion with Poonam Sharma, Board Secretary, National Press Club-DC and Editor-in-Chief, Global Strat View and Wahida Faizi, Gender Coordinator of International Media Support. Representatives of media and press freedom organizations briefed the participants about their organizations, resources, and opportunities available to support the work of journalists and empower media professionals reporting from conflicts. when covering conflict and mediation processes.

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Introducing Media and Press Freedom Organizations Session 5

Presenter 1: Poonam Sharma

Board Secretary, National Press Club – Washington D.C.

Editor-in-Chief, Global Strat View

Presenter 2: Wahida Faizi

Gender Coordinator of International Media Support

Summary & Highlights:

Session 5 “Introducing Media and Press Organizations” featured Afghan Journalist Wahida Faizi, Gender Coordinator at International Media Support based in Denmark, and Poonam Sharma, Board Secretary of the National Press Club DC, Editor-in-Chief of Global Strat View, located in Washington DC. Ms. Faizi and Ms. Sharma underlined several critical themes and challenges facing journalists globally were discussed. The session provided a platform to delve into the nuanced experiences of journalists, particularly in conflict zones like Afghanistan, and emphasized the pivotal role of international support in safeguarding press freedom.

Poonam Sharma’s Perspective: Advocating for Press Freedom

Poonam Sharma opened the session by delineating the rich history and pivotal role of the National Press Club DC, established in 1908. Emphasizing its commitment to global press freedom, she underscored the club’s advocacy initiatives and support mechanisms for journalists worldwide. Central to their mission is fostering journalist integrity through democratic processes and professional development events. Ms. Sharma`s personal journey, rooted in early journalism experiences in Yemen, underscored the importance of engaging with diverse perspectives amidst challenging environments.

The National Press Club DC actively champions press freedom through various advocacy campaigns and supports journalists facing adversity. Poonam highlighted instances such as the campaigns for journalists like Austin Tice and Evan Gershkovich, illustrating the club’s tangible efforts in defending journalistic integrity globally. She encouraged global journalists to join local press clubs, citing the strength of solidarity in protecting press freedom and ensuring accountability from political leaders.

Wahida Faizi’s Insights: Challenges for Afghan Journalists

Wahida Faizi brought poignant insights into the challenges faced by Afghan journalists, particularly women, amidst Taliban rule. Reflecting on her advocacy journey from Afghanistan to Denmark, Wahida highlighted severe restrictions on women journalists’ work and personal freedoms under Taliban governance. Despite these adversities, Afghan women journalists display remarkable resilience in continuing their vital reporting amid heightened risks.

International Media Support, where Wahida works, focuses on bolstering media in conflict-affected regions like Afghanistan. She underscored the alarming decline in media outlets and journalists in Afghanistan post-Taliban resurgence, underscoring the precarious situation faced by local journalists. Ms. Faizi stressed the critical need for sustained international solidarity and advocacy efforts to amplify Afghan voices and address ongoing challenges effectively.

During the discussion, Wahida Faizi addressed inquiries on supporting Afghan journalists, stressing the importance of comprehensive coverage of Afghan realities and engaging with local journalists to safely amplify their voices. Her insights underscored the imperative for continued global attention and advocacy to mitigate threats faced by Afghan journalists and uphold their freedom of expression.

Throughout the session, several cross-cutting themes emerged:

1. Gender Equality in Journalism: The announcement of equal pay for women in journalism highlighted strides towards workplace gender equality, reflecting broader efforts within the media industry.

2. Safety Concerns in Conflict Zones: The perilous conditions for journalists in Afghanistan, compounded by targeted attacks and visa denials, underscored the urgent need for robust international support mechanisms.

3. Global Journalism Challenges: Participants discussed transnational repression and press freedom restrictions beyond conflict zones, revealing pervasive challenges even in ostensibly safer regions.

4. Empowerment and Solidarity: The session underscored the pivotal role of international solidarity networks in empowering journalists, particularly women, and advocating for their safety and professional integrity.

5. Future Engagements and Initiatives: The introduction of journalism projects and mentorship opportunities aimed at nurturing emerging journalists highlighted ongoing efforts to foster robust media coverage and advocacy.

The session concluded with reflections on the impact of the discussions and a call to action for continued engagement in advancing press freedom globally. Participants were encouraged to leverage ongoing initiatives and collaborations to bolster journalist resilience and amplify marginalized voices in media coverage.

In essence, the session encapsulated a profound exploration of the challenges and triumphs within contemporary journalism, emphasizing the critical role of advocacy, solidarity, and international cooperation in safeguarding press freedom worldwide.

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