Islamabad: The United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) Country Office Pakistan, partnering with the Federal Investigation Agency (FIA), conducted a media workshop in Islamabad to enhance journalists’ skills in ethical and sensitive reportage on human trafficking and migrant smuggling.
More than 30 journalists and editors from prominent media organizations attended the one-day session, which emphasized survivor-focused reporting, precise legal terms, protecting victims’ identities, and refraining from sensationalism. Using interactive presentations, real-world examples, and open discussions, participants examined how responsible journalism can mold public perception, impact policy, and bolster Pakistan’s national strategy against these offenses.
Led by veteran journalist Mr. Oun Sahi, the workshop reinforced fundamental principles including using correct terminology to distinguish human trafficking from migrant smuggling, highlighting how misusing terms misleads the public and weakens legal and policy actions. The session also promoted a survivor-centered method, advising against stigmatizing vocabulary, passive voice, or sensational headlines; prioritizing the privacy and respect of individuals through pseudonyms, obscured visuals, and trauma-informed interviews.
Further, the workshop underlined the importance of legal grounding by referencing Pakistan’s Prevention of Trafficking in Persons Act (2018) and Prevention of Smuggling of Migrants Act (2018). Ethical guidelines, including avoiding stereotypes, framing narratives within human rights and socioeconomic perspectives (poverty, gender disparity, migration challenges), and highlighting systemic involvement, were also stressed. The training explored the media’s power to shape public comprehension, sway government agendas, unveil organized crime, and maintain impetus for improvements.
This program underscores UNODC and FIA’s dedication to collaborating with the press to encourage accurate and beneficial narratives that uphold the dignity of survivors while exposing organized crime. The endeavor is backed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada. For more information, contact Rizwana Rahool, Advocacy and Communications Officer, at +92 301-8564255. Source: United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime. ZCZC