International News Safety Institute

22 December 2014

  |  INSI news, News

NEWSLETTER: December

As I write, 108 of our news media colleagues have lost their lives since the start of January. The names of a small number of these men and women are widely known, but most are unrecognised outside their countries and communities. INSI would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to them all. Whatever their names, wherever and however they died, they are testament to the fact that journalists continue to die as they strive to cast a light into the darkest corners of society. This year, we have seen a worrying rise in the numbers of journalists targeted for their work. Among the most high profile killings were those of American journalists James Foley and Steven Sotloff, who were murdered by Islamic State militants after being kidnapped in Syria. Their killings, which were broadcast as propaganda by the militants, were a reminder of the risks taken by many journalists, in particular freelancers. Sadly for each of our colleagues who have paid the ultimate price, many others have been attacked, threatened and harassed for the work they do around the world – their lives and those of their families, and their livelihoods, turned upside down by violent and criminal elements intent on silencing the messenger. INSI has also been saddened by the growing menace of kidnap and detention undertaken by self-proclaimed authorities and governments bent on sabotaging the freedom of the press. Against this backdrop, we have worked tirelessly to provide up to date safety advice and information for journalists and news media staff working in difficult and dangerous places around the world, drawing on our extensive network of experts and members to provide you with the most relevant information for you and your colleagues in whatever conditions you’re working. One example of this was trauma specialist Neil Greenberg who joined INSI for our first-ever podcast on how to spot the signs of PTSD in the newsroom and how to help colleagues under stress. For more information you can also read our recent advisory written by Neil on dealing with PTSD. Meanwhile, our December advisory focused on how to manage a crisis, such as when a staff member is killed or kidnapped. We have also conducted training in safety, first aid and crisis management for our colleagues and continue to offer this to both members and non-members. We are proud to be recognised as the news industry’s safety body and to welcome new members to INSI. For more information on joining please contact us at info@newssafety.org. As we look ahead to what we hope is a safer, more peaceful 2015, we thank you once again for your continued commitment and support. Together, we know we can make the world a safer place for journalists. Hannah Storm, INSI director

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