The United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF) has emphasised that responsible and ethical journalism can play a crucial role in helping child victims of abuse and violence recover from their experiences, rather than deepening their trauma.
This message was highlighted on Monday at a Northeast and North Central Regional Workshop on Ethical Reporting of Children currently taking place in Gombe State.
Speaking on behalf of the UNICEF Country Representative, communications consultant Sussan Akila urged journalists to recognise the influence their work has on vulnerable children and their communities, noting that sensitive and responsible reporting can support healing and protection for survivors.
Akila explained that while the media plays an important role in bringing attention to issues affecting children, reporters must be mindful of how their stories, images and headlines may affect the lives of those involved.
According to her, journalists often work in challenging environments, particularly during crises or conflict situations where information may be difficult to obtain. However, she stressed that such conditions should not compromise ethical standards or the safety of victims.
She cautioned media practitioners against revealing details that could identify child victims, including photographs or personal information that might expose them to stigma, discrimination or further harm within their communities.
Akila noted that although journalists may move on to other assignments after publishing a story, the consequences of their reports can remain with victims and their families for many years.
She therefore encouraged reporters to approach stories involving children with empathy and caution, ensuring that their coverage respects the dignity and rights of young people.
Akila also expressed optimism that the workshop would strengthen journalists’ understanding of child-sensitive reporting and equip them with practical skills to produce stories that protect, rather than endanger, vulnerable children.
She added that ethical journalism should be viewed not only as a professional duty but also as a humanitarian responsibility that contributes to safeguarding children and supporting their well-being.
The workshop brought together journalists from the Northeast and North Central regions to discuss best practices in reporting issues involving children, particularly survivors of abuse, violence and humanitarian crises.
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