Cafe Juridique on Effective Reporting of SGBV Cases by Media Practitioners
The 34th bi-monthly Cafe Juridique, organized and hosted by the Center for Justice and Advocacy on behalf of Certa Foundation, took place on March 22, 2024. This event focused on the crucial theme of effective reporting of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases by media practitioners. The discussion featured Prof Eugene Ntaganda, an esteemed Human Rights and Gender expert, as the guest speaker. Isobel Masozera, a keynote speaker, moderator, and advocate for African women's holistic wellness, served as the moderator.
The participants, both in person and online, were predominantly media practitioners representing various public and private media houses in Rwanda, along with members of civil society organizations, university students, and other interested individuals.
Professor Eugene brought to light the importance of defining Gender-Based Violence (GBV) as any act causing bodily, psychological, sexual, or economic harm based on gender. He stressed that Gender based violence (GBV)affects both genders and underscored the need for non-discriminatory remedies and combating SGBV. The conversation expanded to the media's pivotal role in addressing SGBV cases, urging them to advocate, influence decision-makers, and uphold principles such as victim centeredness, trauma informed reporting, integrity, confidentiality, and victim protection.
Moreover, Professor Eugene emphasized the significance of respecting victims' privacy, obtaining consent, refraining from judgmental statements, and safeguarding personal data. He encouraged reporters to engage in peer learning, coaching, and ethical reporting practices, emphasizing accountability and responsible social media use in protecting victims' rights.
Responding to concerns about social media users disrespecting GBV victims, Prof Eugene highlighted the risks associated with reporting SGBV matters on social platforms and called for additional training for social media reporters. He stressed the importance of consulting victims before reporting, preserving their anonymity, and collaborating with law makers to differentiate between public interest data and personal information.
The Cafe Juridique concluded with a plea for strengthened collaboration among media practitioners, lawmakers, and victims to ensure ethical reporting, safeguard victims' rights, and cultivate a culture of accountability and respect in addressing SGBV cases.