BH Journalists: Public protest to Zeljana Zovko, a member of the European Parliament

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29/01/2021

SARAJEVO, 29.01. 2021. – The Steering Committee of the BH Journalists Association sends a public protest to Zeljana Zovko, a representative of the Republic of Croatia in the European Parliament, for her degrading attitude towards journalist in an interview for N1 television, broadcasted on January 28.

Speaking about the current political situation in the region and the EU’s role in treating the migrant crisis in BiH, MEP Zeljana Zovko throughout the interview was extremely cynical and insulting towards N1 journalist Minela Jasar – Opardija, answered legitimate questions with counter-questions and efforts to disparage the journalist’s work.

“I think this question goes beyond the question of a journalist and the conversation we should have”, “you are still quite young, so you have not had time to study some things in history”, “I think the question is absolutely inappropriate, it is not my place to interpret anything” , “such questions absolutely do not contribute to reconciliation”, “our conversation does not contribute to a productive end and I do not see how we will end this conversation”, “if you have any other questions, I will be very happy to answer” – these are some of the sentences and remarks by Zovko when “answering” the questions of N1 journalist.

The Steering Committee of BH Journalists considers it inadmissible for a person who performs such an important function as a member of the European Parliament to treat journalists and the media in such a degrading manner. As a public official, Zeljana Zovko has a responsibility to the citizens and is obliged to answer all journalistic questions, whether pleasant or unpleasant, and not to make a selection, try to edit a TV program or answer only questions that are to her liking.

It is astonishing that Ms. Zovko, who, in her own words, is “lobbying for European BiH” reacts this way in a public television appearance, thus showing a lack of respect for journalists, media and their social role and indirectly endangering media freedoms, which is contrary to European values and standards for which she declaratively stands.

The Steering Committee of BH Journalists calls on MEP Zovko to make a public apology to journalist Minela Jasar – Opardija and N1 television, with the expectation that such appearances will not be repeated. In the meantime, BH Journalists will inform all relevant domestic and international organizations about this case, which includes sending a protest letter to the European Parliament Group for BiH and Special Rapporteur Paul Rangel.

The Steering Committee of BH Journalists Association

International mission is assessing the state of media freedom in Serbia

By

IJAS

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28/01/2021

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An online international mission to assess the state of media freedom and the safety of journalists in Serbia is taking place from 28 January to 1 February 2021. The mission is led by ARTICLE 19 as part of the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), which monitors, tracks and responds to violations of press freedom and threats against journalists and media workers in European Union Member States and Candidate Countries. The mission is organised in partnership with the Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (NUNS), one of the affiliates of the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) in Serbia.

The MFRR partners, including the EFJ, and NUNS will meet virtually with key stakeholders in the framework of media freedom in Serbia, including representatives from journalists and media associations, the Standing Working Group on Safety of Journalists, a selected group of Serbian journalists who have been targets of legal, physical or verbal threats or harassment, the Serbian Ombudsman, officials from the Serbian Government and representatives of international organisations.

The mission partners expect to build a comprehensive picture of the situation of media freedom and safety of journalists in the country; preliminary findings from the MFRR monitoring identified verbal and physical harassment, threats against journalists during protests, attacks from police, and tax investigations as the most recurrent obstacles to journalists’ safety and media freedom in Serbia, especially since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The MFRR will publish a follow-up report with the full account of the discussions and with a key set of recommendations to dedicated bodies to improve compliance with international press freedom standards.

Sarah Clarke, Head of Europe and Central Asia at ARTICLE 19, an organisation defending freedom of expression worldwide, said: “We very much look forward to having the opportunity to meet with Serbian journalists, civil society, institutions, government representatives and international missions in Serbia. ARTICLE 19 has long advocated for the need to increase protection of Serbian journalists from physical and online threats and harassment to preserve their safety and the independence of their work. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mapping Media Freedom has published 37 alerts on cases of journalists in Serbia being attacked or intimidated as a result of their work, adding to an already precarious situation for independent media workers in the country. We hope this advocacy mission will represent a platform to engage with relevant authorities so as to increase journalists’ ability to carry out their work without fear of intimidation and in a safe environment.”

As part of the MFRR, ARTICLE 19 is monitoring legal threats against journalists and will publish a report on SLAPPs (strategic litigation against public participation) and other legal threats against journalists in Serbia, in collaboration with the American Bar Association (ABA) and NUNS.

Further information

For press interviews please contact: ARTICLE 19: [email protected]

This statement is part of the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), a Europe-wide mechanism, which tracks, monitors and responds to violations of press and media freedom in EU Member States and Candidate Countries. This project, co-funded by the European Commission, provides legal and practical support, public advocacy and information to protect journalists and media workers. The MFRR is organised by a consortium led by the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) including ARTICLE 19, the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ), Free Press Unlimited (FPU), the Institute for Applied Informatics at the University of Leipzig (InfAI), International Press Institute (IPI) and CCI/Osservatorio Balcani e Caucaso Transeuropa (OBCT).

AJK and UN Women held two-day workshops “Gender Responsive Budgeting”

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AJK

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28/01/2021

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PRISTINA, 28.01.2021 – The Association of Journalists of Kosovo – AJK, in cooperation with UN Women, has held two-day workshops “Gender Responsive Budgeting”, within the regional project “Transformative Financing for Gender Equality towards more transparent, inclusive and accountable governance in the Western Balkans”, financed by SIDA.

Participants in the workshop were journalists from central and local media in Kosovo. Through the discussions, the aim was to expand knowledge on what Gender Responsive Budgeting is, how to report on Gender Responsive Budgeting in Kosovo in an impartial, gender sensitive and ethical manner, on how gender inequalities can be addressed through GRB.

During the workshop, support was provided to journalists regarding the development of concrete ideas and methodologies for drafting reports on GRB.

Guidelines for reporting on Covid-19 vaccines

By

TUMM

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28/01/2021

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PODGORICA, 28.01.2021. – The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) believes that now, more than ever, journalists are making a huge effort to explain the global and local context of the vaccines while scrutinizing pharmaceutical companies and demanding transparency of the government’s vaccination policies and programs. And many of them are doing it without prior expertise or guidance on health reporting.

To help journalists face this challenge ahead of them, the IFJ is publishing a set of guidelines, tips and resources to help improve media coverage on vaccines and the vaccination strategies.

Don’t trust data automatically

Authorities and pharmaceutical companies may be tempted to release attractive and impactful data. Journalists must always request the raw data where possible, include the details of the research and clarify what the news means and what it does not. Avoid simply relying on company or government press releases.

For example, when reporting on a paper or a pharmaceutical study, journalists must look carefully into the data, such as the age of the participants in the study and specify the size, numbers tested, and time period of the trial.

Use trusted and reliable sources

Accessing the correct sources is essential. The World Health Organisation or the European Medicines Agency or academic institutions and universities are some of sources recommended by experienced health journalists -see the list below-. Always follow the principles of the IFJ Global Charter of Ethics for Journalists.

Understand what’s known and what is not about vaccines

The process of developing a vaccine is long and complex and doesn’t end with its approval. Journalists must follow the ongoing studies and consult vaccine experts to understand the implications of potential new findings such as the immunity durability of vaccines, its effectiveness, possible secondary effects, if a vaccinated person can still spread the virus or not or if they will work if the virus mutates.

Explain in detail scientific vocabulary

What does it mean that a vaccine has 95% efficacy? Is efficacy the same as effectiveness? What does immunity mean? From when do we start having it? What does it mean to achieve herd immunity?

According to health experts, these are some of the questions journalists have to understand and be able to clearly communicate to their audience. Using clear and familiar language will also help your audience to understand the information you are conveying. Check the WHO vocabulary glossary to fully understand the concepts you will need to explain in your coverage.

From global to local

Understanding and explaining how the global process of the vaccines, the scientific research and its approval from the authorities is to be applied is essential; but so too is to explain it from a local perspective. Local audiences trust local news the most, and local journalists will play a critical role in informing the public on vaccination sites, eligibility criteria and other practical information.

Avoid sensationalism and click baiting

Journalists must inform the public truthfully about the potential side effects they may feel after vaccination without falling into sensationalism or creating unjustified alarm, especially in headlines. Clearly explaining the possible side effects of any given vaccine will educate the public and ease their reservations.

Educate on the importance of vaccines

Vaccines have saved millions of lives throughout human history and so will the Covid-19 ones. Journalists can tackle misinformation about vaccines by reporting on facts and figureson vaccine efficacy and the importance they have had in ending pandemics in history. Understanding and clearly explaining the possible side-effects of vaccines is critical in places where mistrust over vaccines is higher.

Collaborate!

This is the most important tip of all. Collaborate with other journalists and media outlets and learn from other health journalists’ coverage around the world. Competition among journalists will only speed up the spread of misinformation as the fight to publish the fastest breaking news is more likely to lead to inaccurate and sensationalist coverage.

International mission will assess the state of media freedom in Serbia

By

IJAS

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27/01/2021

0

An online international mission to assess the state of media freedom and the safety of journalists in Serbia will take place from 28 January to 1 February 2021. The mission is led by ARTICLE 19 as part of the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), which monitors, tracks and responds to violations of press freedom and threats against journalists and media workers in European Union Member States and Candidate Countries. The mission is organised in partnership with the Independent Journalists’ Association of Serbia (NUNS).

The MFRR partners and NUNS will meet virtually with key stakeholders in the framework of media freedom in Serbia, including representatives from journalists and media associations, the Standing Working Group on Safety of Journalists, a selected group of Serbian journalists who have been targets of legal, physical or verbal threats or harassment, the Serbian Ombudsman, officials from the Serbian Government and representatives of international organisations. The mission partners expect to build a comprehensive picture of the situation of media freedom and safety of journalists in the country; preliminary findings from the MFRR monitoring identified verbal and physical harassment, threats against journalists during protests, attacks from police, and tax investigations as the most recurrent obstacles to journalists’ safety and media freedom in Serbia, especially since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic. The MFRR will publish a follow-up report with the full account of the discussions and with a key set of recommendations to dedicated bodies to improve compliance with international press freedom standards.

Sarah Clarke, Head of Europe and Central Asia at ARTICLE 19, an organisation defending freedom of expression worldwide, said: “We very much look forward to having the opportunity to meet with Serbian journalists, civil society, institutions, government representatives and international missions in Serbia. ARTICLE 19 has long advocated for the need to increase protection of Serbian journalists from physical and online threats and harassment to preserve their safety and the independence of their work. Since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Mapping Media Freedom has published 37 alerts on cases of journalists in Serbia being attacked or intimidated as a result of their work, adding to an already precarious situation for independent media workers in the country. We hope this advocacy mission will represent a platform to engage with relevant authorities so as to increase journalists’ ability to carry out their work without fear of intimidation and in a safe environment.”

As part of the MFRR, ARTICLE 19 is monitoring legal threats against journalists and will publish a report on SLAPPs (strategic litigation against public participation) and other legal threats against journalists in Serbia, in collaboration with the American Bar Association (ABA) and NUNS.

For press interviews please contact:

ARTICLE 19: [email protected]

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This press release is part of the Media Freedom Rapid Response (MFRR), which tracks, monitors and responds to violations of press and media freedom in EU Member States and Candidate Countries. This project provides legal and practical support, public advocacy and information to protect journalists and media workers. The MFRR is organised by a consortium led by the European Centre for Press and Media Freedom (ECPMF) including ARTICLE 19, the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ), Free Press Unlimited (FPU), the Institute for Applied Informatics at the University of Leipzig (InfAI), International Press Institute (IPI) and CCI/Osservatorio Balcani e Caucaso Transeuropa (OBCT). The project is funded by the European Commission.

TUMM: Media workers must be among the priorities for vaccination

By

TUMM

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27/01/2021

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PODGORICA, 27.01.2021. – Trade Union of Media of Montenegro (TUMM), as an organization that gathers more than half of the employees in the media sector, today sent an initiative to the Ministry of Health to include media workers in priority groups during the immunization of the population against COVID-19.

As the public was informed, the National Strategy for Immunization against SARS – CoV-2 (COVID-19) was adopted at the session of the Government of Montenegro last week. In this, as well as in the accompanying documents which lists the priority groups for vaccination, media workers are not mentioned as a priority, which was the case with some countries in the region.

TUMM reminded that media workers, among other professions, have been on the first line of defense since the outbreak of the covid crisis, with the important task of informing our fellow citizens in a timely manner. Many of our colleagues worked without a day off, in uncertain conditions, which did not prevent them from being up to the task and bringing daily news to the citizens about the virus and the activities of the Government and competent bodies in the fight against it. Without our colleagues, the population would be deprived of very important information for almost 10 months. All these activities include daily contact with a large number of people and reporting from areas with a high prevalence of the virus.

In this regard, TUMM called on the Minister of Health, Ms. Jelena Borovinić Bojović, to revise the Vaccination Action Plan, in a way that includes media workers as a priority, who would, through their newsrooms, volunteerly apply for vaccination.

AJM, SSNM, MIM and CMEM: The election of the bodies in MRT and AAAVMS with a simple majority is risky

By

AJM

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27/01/2021

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Skopje, 27.01.2021 –

The Association of Journalists of Macedonia (AJM), the Independent Trade Union of Journalists and Media Workers (SSNM), the Macedonian Media Institute (MIM), and the Council for Media Ethics (CMEM) are following with concern the process of amending the Law on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services, initiated by a group of MPs from the ruling majority. This proposal requires the election of members of the Program Council in MRT and the AAAVMS Council in the Assembly of RSM to be by a majority votes of the total number of MPs, instead of a two-thirds majority, as regulated by existing regulations.

It is a fact that due to the principle of a two-thirds majority and disagreements between the ruling coalition and the opposition, this process has so far been blocked in the Parliament of North Macedonia. Still, party differences should not be used as an excuse to disrupt the “merit system” for electing people in these bodies. However, before any changes in voting are considered, it is necessary for the Assembly to make a serious attempt to select new members of the councils through the existing laws to enable the democratic processes to overcome the blockades that were visible. In the last parliamentary composition.

Additionally worrying is that this Law is proposed to be adopted in a fast procedure, without any explanation in the proposal, which leaves no room for public debate or transparency and involvement of stakeholders in its adoption.

The principle of a two-thirds majority in the election of members of the governing bodies of the public service broadcaster and the media regulator is crucial because it reduces the risk of party-political influence in the election of members of these bodies by MPs. The eventual change brings risks for the councils’ future composition, which can be easily replaced with each change of government. This will violate the principle of independence of institutions from politics, which was the primary motive when voting on the current legal solution. The election principle by a two-thirds majority, journalists, and media organizations advocated in 2013 when the media laws were adopted. This principle was supported by experts from the Council of Europe in drafting the Law on Audio and Audiovisual Media Services, which regulates MRT and AAAVMS.

Female journalists in BiH exposed to sexual violence, but keep silent about it

By

BHJA

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26/01/2021

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SARAJEVO, 26.01.2021. – The wave of accusations of rape and sexual harassment of women has spread across the region. Larisa Halilovic, the team leader of the Media for All program led by the British Council, and Borka Rudic, Secretary General of the BH Journalists Association, spoke for O Channel about whether there are such cases in journalism.

– The statistics are alarming. When it comes to the safety of journalists, the trends are really bad and it seems that the situation is generally not getting better. It seems to me that there is not enough talk about it and that there is insufficient support. We have launched trainings for journalists in six countries in the region in order to raise this topic – says Larisa Halilovic.

Journalists have very little strength to speak about their personal negative experiences, adds Borka Rudic.

– We did a survey with male and female students and out of 70 of them, only 35 answered. Of the directors, editors and journalists, out of 70 invited, 16 responded to our questionnaire, and out of 100 female journalists, only 51 completed the questionnaire. There is not yet enough strength to talk about it. We can talk about a silence in the journalistic community which, I hope, will be broken and they will start speaking publicly about how much they themselves are exposed to violence and sexual harassment and all other forms of violation of their basic human rights – says Rudic.

She reminded of the recent example of a female journalist from Sarajevo who was a victim of verbal violence and sexual harassment by employee of the Ministry of Human Rights and Refugees of BiH. The journalist bravely reported all this, wrote articles about it and continued to talk about this topic because the harassment continued.

Watch the whole conversation in the video:

BH Journalists: Journalists and representatives of institutions must treat each other professionally and with respect

By

BHJA

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25/01/2021

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SARAJEVO, 25.01. 2021 – The Ministry of Internal Affairs of Republika Srpska announced on January 21 that the spokeswoman of the Bijeljina Police Department, Aleksandra Maric, was verbally and then physically attacked by journalist Zorica Kusmuk.

A statement from the RS Ministry of the Interior, accompanied by a video of the incident that happened in front of the Bijeljina Police Department, states that journalist Kusmuk attacked spokeswoman Maric because, as she claimed, she was not notified of the regular press conference. On the other hand, Zorica Kusmuk admitted in a text she posted on her blog that she was outraged by the alleged question asked by spokeswoman Maric “who is financing you” and also by the spokeswoman’s explanation that she did not invite the journalist to a press conference because she didn’t have her e-mail.

After reviewing the video, the Steering Committee of the BH Journalists Association strongly condemns this incident and calls on all journalists and other media employees to be as professional as possible in communicating with representatives of institutions, as well as in their reporting. Good cooperation with institutions and a professional attitude towards their representatives are equally important for the quality performance of journalistic work as well as pointing out problems and possible irregularities in the work of certain institutions.

Mutual insults, provocations and physical confrontations are not and cannot be a way of communication between journalists and employees of state institutions. Regardless of their personal attitudes and beliefs, they must treat each other in their work as professionally as possible and mutually respecting the obligations and requirements dictated to them by their professions. In this sense, the relationship of journalists with spokespersons of institutions is especially important because spokespersons for journalists are the first, and most often the most important, link in accessing the information they need for their work.

Therefore, BH Journalists once again appeal to the colleagues from the media to work on improving these relations in order to make their work easier and to respect the rights of those with whom they communicate and report on a daily basis, as well as ethical codes of professional journalism.

Safejournalists.net

Further information