By Ikome Christie-Noella Eposi in Buea
Journalists in the South West Region have taken part in a training workshop on the International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The workshop which took place on Tuesday, August 20 and Wednesday, August 21, 2024 in Buea was organised by the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC).
The media practitioners were given insights on the Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, introduction to the IHL, IHL and the protection of journalists as well as the responsibilities of journalists in the event of a violation of IHL.
In her opening speech, the Head of the Buea Sub Delegation of the ICRC, Sabrina Frutig noted that it is essential to enhance the understanding of media professionals regarding international humanitarian law, focusing not only on their rights but more importantly on their responsibilities in situations of armed conflict. “It is important for you all to recognise that any armed conflict presents distinct levels of risk for those tasked with reporting on it. Rather than being mere ‘collateral victims’, journalists have become the primary targets of aggression from armed factions and governmental entities”, she said.
“Increased awareness and the incorporation of discussions regarding the humanitarian conditions faced by individuals impacted by conflicts, breaches of International Humanitarian Law and the importance of humanitarian efforts could significantly contribute to the humanisation of conflicts”, Frutig continued.
To the journalists, she emphasised that, “This training workshop will strengthen your capacities in IHL and on ICRC’s protection priorities and also strengthen the delegation’s media relations and acceptance”.
Talking on the role of the media in the protection of victims of armed conflict, Nora TseAtah and Rosin Kam Belinga stated that not enough attention is paid to protecting victims because those involved know little or nothing about the law. Nora added that in recent times especially during a crisis period as such, the media turns to rather spread hatred, take sides, engage in commercial competition, have hidden agendas and are subject to censorship or self-censorship. She however revealed that the media should apart from political issues take a look at what is going on with the citizens, ordinary people and the effects of the situation on their daily lives.
“The media should verify sources, cross-check information between different sources giving an informed opinion etc”, Nora pinpointed.
On the role of the ICRC to help media in reporting humanitarian activities, she added that ICRC carries out dissemination/trainings, workshops, press releases, conferences, briefings and all of these done on the basis of confidentiality.
Intervening on the protection and assistance of IDPs in Cameroon, the Research Officer and focal person at the South West Governor’s office, Nkwawir Njodzeka mentioned that many initiatives have been taken by the government to support IDPs, which include; aid granted by the state to vulnerable people who are victims of natural disasters, the setting up of an inter-ministerial committee to handle very urgent issues concerning refugees in Cameroon amongst others. “The protection of IDPs is a priority for public authorities who are making enormous efforts to improve the living conditions of the IDPs”, he noted.
Participants at the end of the session were able to understand the different categories of journalists in the battlefield and the protection regime, why the protection of journalists and the duties/responsibilities and rights of journalists when covering armed conflicts.
The ICRC is a neutral, impartial and independent organisation which is mandated by the International community to protect and assist victims of armed conflict and other situations of violence, and to promote respect for IHL. The Cameroon Red Cross has as mission to prevent and alleviate sufferings of vulnerable persons without impartiality, discrimination and also contributes to the amelioration of health, prevention of illnesses, epidemics, pandemics and alleviation of sufferings.
Founded in 1863, the ICRC is at the origin of the Geneva Convention and the International Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, leads and coordinates its international activities in armed conflicts and other situations of violence.