Securing Journalists In Conflict Zones Crucial For Press Freedom

SIEM REAP, Aug 31 (Bernama) -- The safety of journalists, particularly those operating in conflict zones, is vital in safeguarding freedom of expression and freedom of the press.

Under Secretary of State at the Cambodian Ministry of Information, Dr Alfin Sles, said without ensuring journalists’ safety, the public cannot receive truthful, credible information needed to make informed decisions, potentially leading to panic, misinformation and the spread of fake news.

“Promoting the safety of journalists aligns with the United Nations’ action plan on the safety of journalists and supports our national strategies on media development for 2024–2028,” he said.

He was speaking to reporters at the conclusion of the Regional Workshop on Safety dan Risk Management Conflict Reporting, held here from Aug 28 to 31.

The four-day programme, organised by the Cambodian Ministry of Information, brought together 35 journalists from Cambodia, China, Indonesia, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam to strengthen safety protocols and reporting standards in high-risk environments.

Alfin said the workshop served as a timely reminder for media practitioners to regularly review and update their safety protocols, especially as routine fieldwork may lead to complacency.

“This platform allows journalists to revisit safety measures and risk mitigation approaches. During the study tour, we observed participants applying what they had learned, from wearing proper press identification and vests to taking necessary precautions in the field,” he added.

He noted that the safety protocols introduced during the workshop are applicable not only in conflict zones, but also in disaster response and emergency situations.

Looking ahead, Alfin said the Ministry of Information plans to continue organising similar workshops which underscores Cambodia’s commitment to fostering press freedom, regional cooperation, and professional safety practices for journalists working in high-risk assignments

As part of the programme, participants were taken on a study tour to areas impacted by past border tensions between Cambodia and Thailand, including the Por 500 Pagoda Displaced Shelter in Preah Vihear Province, which housed up to 22,000 people during the peak of the crisis.

The participants also had the opportunity to visit houses, temples, schools and health centres affected by the bombing in Oddar Meanchey Province.

-- BERNAMA