In a joint initiative, the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and The Hindu have launched an extensive ‘Safety Guide for Journalists covering Indian elections 2024.’ Unveiled during a virtual event on March 8, the guide provides practical advice and crucial insights to ensure the safety and well-being of journalists during the upcoming elections.
The safety guide is meticulously designed, featuring an editor’s safety checklist for deploying staff on sensitive stories and comprehensive information on digital safety. One of its key focuses is addressing the specific challenges faced by journalists, particularly in the realm of online safety. With a surge in orchestrated online campaigns, especially targeting women journalists, the guide offers strategies to mitigate such risks effectively.
Journalism has become an increasingly hazardous profession, not only in the physical world but also in the digital space. N. Ram, Director of The Hindu Group Publishing Private Limited, highlighted the alarming trend of deteriorating press freedom in India, particularly during sensitive periods like elections. According to global surveys, India’s press freedom ranking has plummeted from 140 in 2014 to a concerning 168 in 2023, reflecting the growing challenges journalists face.
The safety kit, available in four regional languages and English on https://cpj.org, includes vital information on election preparedness, physical safety measures, digital security protocols, and strategies to manage stress in the newsroom. As journalism faces unprecedented challenges, the guide aims to empower journalists with the tools and knowledge needed to navigate safely through the upcoming Indian elections.
