03 Nov 2021

 Reporters should disseminate information on gender-based violence (GBV) in a sensitive manner which did not sensationalise nor seem to perpetuate the gender disparity haunting society, says Minister of Nationality, Immigration and Gender Affairs, Ms Annah Mokgethi.

 She told journalists during a breakfast meeting in Gaborone Tuesday that any efforts to document GBV  information for reporting purposes should prioritise survivor’s safety and best interests. 

 Survivor’s best interests must take precedence over other objectives,  she stressed adding that their rights to dignity, privacy, confidentiality, safety, security and protection from harm or retribution should be proritised.Reporters, she said, should consider how a story could potentially violate any of the mentioned core principles. 

Ms Mokgethi called upon the media to avoid judgemental language such as writing about survivors’ history, sexual practices, clothing, where they were, what they were doing or the time of the day the abuse occurred as it could imply blaming them. 

Reporters were also asked to avoid reporting details that could put survivors at further risk such as names, photographs or identifying their families. 

The minister said instead the media should share pictures or information on perpetrators in order to alert the public of such dangerous and harmful characters. 

“May I also urge you to always consult GBV experts who are familiar with the content and context because their input would definitely increase the depth of understanding by providing relevant information. Media reports may also include the contact information of local support oragnisations and services to allow survivors’ and family members to access the care they need,” said Ms Mokgethi. 

 The media, she said,  played an important role in informing the public about GBV and its effects on society as well as in preventing and reducing GBV cases.

Ms Mokgthi said media coverage of GBV was crucial in revealing societal beliefs and perceptions that could influence socio-political and socio-cultural responses to GBV challenges. 

“To this end, media practitioners play a critical role in not only raising awareness on GBV, but also in counteracting myths and outdated attitudes that may persist on the issue. Drawing attention to positive stories of empowerment and resilience can assist in illustrating how survivors often act as advocates and agents of change,” said Ms Mokgethi. Ends