UNESCO and IWMF Launch New Guide for Psychologists to Support Journalists at risk

The guide was introduced at the International Day to End Impunity for Crimes Against Journalists (IDEI) event, at the African Union Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia. During a panel on the safetyof women journalists in crises situations, Nadine Hoffman, Deputy Director of the IWMF, emphasized the need for more psychologists trained in crisis mental health care, particularly in regions facing heightened risks. Such support is essential for protecting journalists' well-being and enabling them to continue their vital work.

The guide will be a key resource for the trainings of psychologists to provide specialized assistance to women journalists in crisis-affected countries and during electoral periods. This training is part of the U.S. funded "Protecting Journalists to Protect Democracy" which began in September 2024.With a focus on countering supporting journalists' resilience this underscores the mental support in strengthening democratic processes and protecting journalists' security in challenging environments.

Courtney O'Donnell, U.S. Ambassador to UNESCO, highlighted the significance of this initiative and expressed her gratitude to those committed to advancing the safety and well-being of women journalists.

Through the U.S.-funded initiative, UNESCO and the IWMF are working with over 20 newsrooms globally to establish gender-sensitive safety protocols. These protocols focus on creating supportive workplaces, reducing victim-blaming and addressing the specific challenges faced by women journalists. The project aims to ensure that journalists, especially women, have access to mental help support tailored to help them cope with trauma.

UNESCO works to improve the safety of journalists in conflict contexts, ensuring that they can continue their critical work without compromising their safety or mental well-being.