The media is the message
Historically, gender-based violence and sex trafficking have been misrepresented and underreported in the media. Media sources, intentionally or not, often play into harmful stereotypes and don’t always prioritize the safety and well-being of survivors, causing further harm
Here are 10 essential ways to report on gender-based violence, drawing from the Guidelines on Gender-Based Violence in the Media facilitated by Aura Freedom International in Toronto, Canada.
- Acknowledge Children’s Rights and Gender Equality: Recognize gender-based violence against girls as a violation of their rights. Understand the power dynamics that perpetuate violence and advocate for equality.
- Center Survivors: Prioritize survivor-centered representation. Avoid victim-blaming and focus on the actions of perpetrators. Never romanticize relationships between victims and adult offenders.
- Use Active Language: Describe acts of violence using active language. Consult experts to provide context and avoid speculation about motives.
- Avoid Sensational Imagery: Refrain from using sensational or sexualized visuals. Respect the dignity of victims/survivors. Do not publish photographs of deceased victims in femi(ni)cide cases.
- Contextualize Cases: Place individual cases within the broader context of violence against girls. Reference national laws, data, and statistics to highlight systemic issues.
- Consider Intersectionality: Explore power differentials based on gender, age, race, ethnicity, caste, class, sexuality, and disability. Provide nuanced perspectives relevant to each case.
- Provide Helpline Numbers: Include relevant helpline numbers for victims/survivors and supporters. Ensure privacy by avoiding specific shelter or safe house locations.
- Collaborate with Specialists: Consult gender-based violence and child protection experts to ensure accurate reporting.
- Challenge Harmful Norms: Responsible reporting contributes to awareness and advocacy. Challenge harmful norms and promote change.
- Prioritize Safety and Dignity: Uphold the safety, confidentiality, and dignity of survivors, families, and communities. Ethical journalism plays a critical role in addressing gender-based violence.
GBV In The Media in Canada: The National Network members:
- AIDS Committee of Toronto
- Andrew McConnell – Independent memberuuu
- Ariana Magliocco – Independent member
- Asha Dahir – Independent member
- Battered Women’s Support Services
- Bell Media
- Canadian Council of Muslim Women
- Canadian Femicide Observatory for Justice and Accountability, University of Guelph
- Canadian Network for the Prevention of Elder Abuse
- Cici Fan – Independent member
- DAWN Canada
- Deborah Sinclair – Independent member
- Elizabeth Fry Toronto
- Enchante’ Network
- End FGM/C Network Canada
- Feminist Alliance for International Action (FAFIA/AFAI)
- FCJ Refugee Centre
- Global News
- Global News (BC )
- Rogers Media
- Ontario Association of Interval and Transition Houses
- Mark Pender – Independent member
- Melissa Compton, Independent member
- Michael Kehler – Independent member
- Mohawk College, Indigenous Student Services
- Native Women’s Association of Canada
- Native Women’s Resource Centre of Toronto
- Next Gen Men
- Saturviit Inuit Women’s AssociationSupport Network for Indigenous Women and Women Of Colour
- Toronto Rape Crisis Centre / Multicultural Women Against Rape
- White Ribbon
- Women’s Habitat
Remember, responsible reporting matters. In reporting gender-based violence, it’s important to amplify voices, raise awareness, and work towards a safer world for all.
Read more
