The purpose of this workshop was to address a stereotypical, inaccurate and prejudicial portrayal of sexual violence survivors in media. Students from media studies, women’s studies and international relations from different local universities attended this workshop. This training aimed to equip the participants with knowledge of sexual violence and ethical reporting standards of crimes committed against women.
Concepts of sexual violence, power, force, will and consent were explored in the training. Right to anonymity and right to disclosure, re-traumatisation, and ways to interact with survivor of sexual violence were discussed. Common myths and misconceptions around rape, the importance of sending the right message and examples of derogatory representation of women in media were also discussed.
17 future journalists were sensitized and trained through this workshop. Since ethical reporting and communication with survivors of GBV are presently not taught at any media school in Pakistan, not are there any codes of professional conduct in Pakistani media with institutions relying on the personal ethics of a journalist, this workshop is expected to give a strong foundation to those entering the profession. WAR is also looking to design a project around such lecture-based workshops in Karachi’s media schools and colleges.
Deputy Secretary Technical of Women's Development Department of Sindh, Ms. Musarrat Jabeen graced the certificate distribution ceremony and addressed the participants.
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