PARIS: The United Nations’ cultural agency said Thursday it would provide bulletproof vests and helmets to journalists working in Ukraine after the deaths of several reporters covering Russia’s invasion.
UNESCO will also organize online training courses for working in combat zones and first aid. It is also trying to provide in-person training soon for journalists in Lviv, the western city where many media organizations have moved as the capital Kyiv is besieged.
“Journalists and media workers are risking their lives in Ukraine to provide life-saving information to local populations and inform the world of the reality of this war,” UNESCO chief Audrey Azoulay said in a statement.
An initial batch of 125 vests and helmets will be distributed in particular to Ukrainian journalists “who previously reported on local issues and have been thrust into the role of war correspondents, unprepared for the risks they now face,” the agency said.
It said at least four journalists have been killed since the invasion began three weeks ago, including a Fox News cameraman and the Ukrainian fixer helping his team.
The American documentary film maker Brent Renaud and Ukrainian reporter Evgeny Sakun have also been killed, prompting protests from media groups that say Russian forces are failing to protect war reporters as required under international law.
UNESCO also said it would provide funds for a hotline set up by Ukraine’s national journalists’ union that reporters can call for help evacuating a danger zone.
UN agency to give protective gear to Ukraine journalists
https://arab.news/b64pf
UN agency to give protective gear to Ukraine journalists
- UN says it will provide bulletproof vests and helmets to journalists working in Ukraine
- UNESCO will also organize online training courses for working in combat zones and first aid
Al-Ahsa governor meets Saudi Journalists Association chairman, board members
- Prince Saud briefed on SJA’s activities including enhancing media ecosystem, developing local talent
LONDON: Al-Ahsa Gov. Prince Saud bin Talal bin Badr on Monday met with the Saudi Journalists Association’s Chairman Adhwan Mohammed Al-Ahmari, members of its board of directors, and the head of the local branch, at the governorate’s headquarters.
Prince Saud was briefed on the SJA board’s efforts to help regulate the work of journalists, enhance professionalism, develop the media environment, and help train and empower national talent.
He was also updated on the association’s programs to support responsible media, strengthen local and international partnerships, and host domestic and foreign media delegations currently visiting the governorate.
The governor said Saudi Arabia’s leadership has helped to modernize the media industry and strengthen its presence at home and abroad.
He underlined the role of professional media in showcasing national achievements and values, and deepening engagement between all sectors of society.
Al-Ahmari thanked Prince Saud for supporting the media in Al-Ahsa and his commitment to developing the industry across the region.
