By Rihana Adam, GNA
Accra, April 1, GNA – Mr Anas Aremeyaw Anas, an investigative journalist with Tiger Eye P.I., has called on media practitioners to continuously upgrade their skills to keep pace with the evolving nature of the profession.
He said as journalism evolved, practitioners must embrace new ideas and practical knowledge to remain effective and safe in the field.
Mr Anas, also the Chairman of the Whistleblowers and Journalists Safety International Centre (WAJSIC), made the call at a five-day training programme in Accra.
The programme was organised by the Centre in collaboration with Lazarus Training Limited, United Kingdom.
He said the programme would help safeguard journalists in various situations and urged participants to use the opportunity to learn from each other.
Mr Glen Littmoden, a facilitator, underscored the importance of pre-deployment planning and risk assessment for journalists and field workers.
He explained that the process involved thorough preparation before embarking on assignments, including identifying possible risks such as violence, health hazards and political instability.
Mr Littmoden said journalists must also plan safe routes and accommodation, while taking time to understand the environment and local laws in areas of operation.
On personal security and travel safety, he noted that practitioners must prioritise their safety while moving or working by avoiding risky areas and behaviours, keeping valuables secure and using safe transport options.
He advised journalists to remain alert at all times to minimise exposure to danger.
Touching on situation and casualty assessment, Mr Littmoden said it was crucial for journalists to quickly evaluate incidents by determining whether there was an ongoing threat or if the environment was safe.
He highlighted the importance of information and communication security, stressing the need to protect sensitive information through secure communication channels, avoid surveillance or data leaks, and safeguard sources.
Mr Steven Richardson, also a facilitator, took participants through conflict management, including how to handle crowds and tense situations.
He said that involved de-escalating arguments, reading crowd behaviour, especially during protests that could turn violent, and knowing when to leave a potentially dangerous scene.
Mr Richardson educated participants on dealing with bleeding wounds, including ballistic injuries, noting that first aid skills such as applying pressure to stop bleeding could help save lives.
On anti-surveillance techniques, he said journalists must be able to detect and avoid being monitored by recognising suspicious behaviour, changing routines and routes, and protecting both their digital and physical movements.
The training, supported by the Embassy of the Netherlands and the Open Society Foundation, formed part of efforts to enhance the safety, preparedness and resilience of journalists in the line of duty.
It brought together 15 journalists from across the West African sub-region to build their capacity in safety and security.
GNA
Edited by Agnes Boye-Doe