Conflict-sensitive journalism boosts Sirjana’s confidence in tackling sensitive issues
MEDIA ACTION NEPAL/January 29: “This training has changed the way I think and report. By being mindful, we journalists can contribute to a more peaceful society,” says Sirjana Budhathoki, a Surkhet based Correspondent for Samacharpatra national daily.
With over a decade of experience in journalism, Sirjana reflects on a transformative moment in her career, the Conflict-Sensitive Journalism (CSJ) training organized in September 2024 by Media Action Nepal in Surkhet of Karnali province, as part of the GIZ-Civil Peace Service-supported project “Strengthening the Role of Media, Youth, and CSOs in Peacebuilding.”
The training, led by globally renowned media trainer and founding chairperson of Media Action Nepal, Laxman Datt Pant, profoundly reshaped her understanding of conflict and the journalist’s role in fostering peace.
Before the training, Sirjana viewed conflict primarily as large-scale events, such as wars or Nepal’s Maoist insurgency. The training broadened her perspective, showing her how even small, everyday issues could serve as sources of conflict. She learned that thoughtful, balanced reporting plays a crucial role in easing tensions and promoting peace.
A pivotal session on gender sensitivity profoundly impacted Sirjana. By analyzing media content presented by the trainers, including photos and discussions, she developed a deeper understanding of gender-related issues and their critical role in journalism. This observation boosted her confidence in addressing sensitive topics and inspired her to amplify the voices of marginalized women in her reporting.
She also learned the importance of accuracy and thorough research, even for routine news stories or social media updates. She realized the power of language in shaping societal attitudes and the responsibility journalists bear in ensuring their words do not escalate conflicts.
After the training, Sirjana took her learnings beyond her own work. She shared the principles of conflict-sensitive and gender-sensitive journalism with her colleagues, emphasizing the impact of careful word choice in creating a more understanding society. She also contributed as one of the ten co-facilitators for the ‘Knowledge Sharing Webinars’ organized by Media Action Nepal, which benefited over 100 journalists from 61 districts across all seven provinces.
While acknowledging that mistakes can happen, she now approaches her work with a heightened sense of awareness and confidence. Sirjana’s transformation underscores the critical role Media Action Nepal’s capacity-building initiatives play in equipping journalists to navigate sensitive issues responsibly. By embracing these principles, she is not only enhancing her reporting but also contributing to a more peaceful and equitable society.