Forging a Path to Human-Centric Progress: Empowering Journalists for Development and Justice

By Ogeyi Ebinyi

In a concerted effort to amplify the ideals enshrined in the seventy-fifth anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights (UDHR) in 2023, the Human Rights Journalist Network Nigeria orchestrated a pivotal one-day training workshop. This illuminating event, themed “Dignity, Freedom, and Justice for All,” was conducted in collaboration with the United Nations Information Centre (UNIC) and various Civil Society Organizations (CSOs).

The backbone of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, as proclaimed by the United Nations General Assembly, stretches from the foundational principle that “All human beings are born free and equal in dignity and rights” (Article 1) to the unequivocal stance that “Nothing in this Declaration may be interpreted as implying for any state, group or person any right to engage in any activity or to perform any act aimed at the destruction of any of the rights and freedoms set forth herein” (Article 30). This seminal document serves as a compass, guiding humanity toward a shared understanding of fundamental rights and responsibilities.

The heart of the workshop beat in harmony with the essence of human rights, transcending the theoretical and embracing the practical. Participants, spanning across various media platforms—Print, Electronic, Television, and Online—immersed themselves in the rich tapestry of knowledge woven by seasoned trainers.

One crucial facet unfolded as the trainer unveiled best practices in media reportage, particularly when handling sensitive cases involving rape victims, suspected criminals, trafficked individuals, and underage victims of violence. The emphasis on concealing identities emerged as a shield, a measure to protect the vulnerable from enduring perpetual victimization or unjust societal scrutiny.

John Eromos, a representative from the African Data Hub (ADH), cast a spotlight on the pivotal role of data as an advocate for human rights. His insightful discourse delved into the nuanced realm of data’s power to authenticate reports and serve as evidentiary support in legal proceedings. Data, he emphasized, is not merely a set of numbers; it informs policies, identifies trends, and safeguards privacy.

The discussion expanded to the realm of artificial intelligence (AI), with an acknowledgement of its transformative potential. The call for regulation echoed through the workshop, underscoring the necessity to curb creativity theft and the dissemination of fake news. Participants grappled with the question of AI-generated data’s credibility, learning that when regulated, it stands as a legitimate tool in the journalist’s arsenal.

Solomon Okedara added a legal perspective, urging media practitioners to don the mantle of legal acumen. Understanding and implementing the rule of law, he argued, empowers journalists to navigate the intricate landscape of legal ambiguity. As human beings, he asserted, individuals possess the agency to approach the court even when the spectre of rights infringement looms.

In a thought-provoking lecture, Mr. Koyanja delved into the symbiotic relationship between human rights and media responsibility. He aptly characterized journalists as the rights holders, with the state assuming the role of the rights duty bearer. The discourse unfolded to illuminate the delicate balance of editorial independence, underscoring the imperative for professional journalists to discern what information should remain shielded in certain contexts.

Nine treaties, borne out of the document of human rights, were dissected, highlighting the critical role of editorial independence. The sanctity of protecting sources, especially in delicate situations with potential dangers, emerged as a non-negotiable commitment.

The culmination of the program witnessed participants not merely as passive recipients of knowledge but as active agents of change. They emerged from the workshop re-educated, re-informed, re-energized, and armed with renewed strategies to champion media reporting on human interest stories. Their collective mission: to expose and address human rights violations, whether perpetrated by governments, private institutions, religious bodies, or individuals. In the crucible of this workshop, the flame of advocacy for human dignity, freedom, and justice for all was ignited, illuminating a path toward a more just and equitable society.