Unicef, in partnership with the Ministry of Information (MoI) and the Media Training Centre, launched a two-day training session on ethical reporting on children for the media in Oman.
The sessions, taking place on October 14 and 15, are led by Charbel Raji, a motivational journalist trainer. The training combines communication tips, media techniques, engaging tools, and role-playing exercises to provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of ethical guidelines.
The training aims to help participants better connect with their audience and enhance their public speaking skills. This will enable them to report on children effectively and strengthen their abilities to represent children and young people, informing audiences and raising awareness on important issues without compromising children's rights.
"After the training, participants will be able to understand how to ensure that the dignity and rights of every child are respected in all circumstances," stated Unicef representatives.
The training programme follows general guidelines that must be adhered to in order to preserve and respect a child's privacy and security. While different countries may have varying laws and regulations, media journalists must follow ethical frameworks when reporting on children and youth. Safeguarding children's privacy, rights, and dignity should be central to all journalistic work.
The first day of the programme focused on ethical interviewing of children, emphasising the importance of respecting their privacy and confidentiality. Participants were encouraged to represent children in a dignified, respectful manner and to avoid stereotypes in imagery, whether negative or positive.
The session also highlighted the ethical guidelines related to posting photos and videos, stressing the importance of respecting diversity and inclusion to empower children and involve them in decisions that affect them, based on their age and maturity. It was emphasised that reporters should ensure that both the child and their guardian are aware they are speaking with a reporter, explain the purpose of the interview and its intended use, and obtain permission from the child and their guardian for any media appearances.
The training session, attended by various ministerial representatives and other public authorities, included an interactive panel with representatives from the Ministry of Social Development (MoSD) and the National Centre for Statistics and Information (NCSI).
On Tuesday, the second and final day of the programme will feature sessions on communication guidelines, public speaking, and on-camera exercises focused on public speaking and ethical reporting on children.
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