Reporting on Sexual Violence in Conflict
There are few—maybe no—journalistic challenges which carry a greater weight of responsibility than interviewing survivors of sexual violence in conflict. When rape is used in war, it has a devastating impact on individuals and their communities.
Responsible journalism can bring attention and insight to crimes that people have difficulty in finding adequate words for. Careless reporting, however, can make things worse by adding to distress and exposing survivors to further danger. These guidelines are written by journalists and filmmakers who regularly work on CRSV related issues. They emerge from a recognition that as a collective enterprise journalism needs to more to define and share best practice. The goal is more effective coverage of these issues that reduces the risk of causing further harm to those courageous enough to tell their stories.