Visionary Reports

A three-day workshop focused on human rights reporting in elections took place in Douala from August 12 to 14. Journalists participated in sessions designed to enhance their skills in covering electoral processes while ensuring the protection of human rights.

As the October 12 Presidential Election approaches, over 30 journalists from the South West and Littoral regions of Cameroon have acquired skills in human rights-based election coverage. This training occurred during a three-day workshop organized by the UN Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Central Africa (UNCHRD).Held from August 12 to 14 under the theme “Promoting Human Rights in Electoral Context: Human Rights-Based Election Coverage,” the workshop aimed to integrate human rights narratives into daily election reporting. Organizers emphasized the importance of equipping journalists with skills to navigate the critical intersection of electoral reporting and human rights protection.Fonyuy Kiven, the programs officer at UNCHRD, stated that Cameroon’s presidential election requires a contextual understanding of human rights, democracy, and peace promotion, where journalists play a vital role. He outlined their responsibility in shaping narratives, promoting peace, and ensuring voters have access to accurate information. Kiven urged reporters to approach election coverage with a sense of responsibility, contextual awareness, and respect for public order. He emphasized that during elections, journalists must inform, monitor, and protect citizens’ rights to make informed choices in a peaceful environment. The workshop also aimed to bring journalists together to reflect, share experiences, and explore their contributions to a peaceful, rights-compliant electoral process.

Throughout the three days, various aspects of human rights reporting were covered. Day one focused on civil and political rights, including freedom of expression, participation, and assembly, along with practical guidance on documenting violations such as voter intimidation. Day two blended ethics and safety, addressing the challenge of combating electoral misinformation to help citizens make informed choices. It included topics on risk assessment, personal security, and the protection of data and sources. Participants also engaged in human rights-focused simulations to practice interviewing political actors.The final day prioritized lessons on inclusive journalism, challenging media practitioners to amplify marginalized voices, including those of women, youth, persons with disabilities, and minorities, who are often sidelined in electoral narratives. The workshop served as a vital platform for fostering a factual and balanced understanding of the electoral process, with a particular emphasis on safeguarding fundamental rights.

By Gina Esong