Gender-Based Violence in Humanitarian Settings

UNITED NATIONS POPULATION FUND ARAB STATES REGIONAL HUMANITARIAN RESPONSE HUB

REPORTING ON GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN HUMANITARIAN SETTINGS

“When I speak to journalists about what I experience, many times it feels as though they don’t understand what we go through as women in this camp. We pour our hearts out, but we rarely see our issues being discussed. ” — AMAL, refugee from Damascus, Syria A JOURNALIST’S HANDBOOK SECOND EDITION REPORTING ON GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN HUMANITARIAN SETTINGS

Journalism is among the most powerful tools for social justice, particularly in the global fight against gender-based violence. Journalists have the power to amplify the voices of women and girls, to shed light on the forms of violence that target them, and to help communities worldwide address the harmful social norms that underpin gender- inequality and gender-based violence.

— NATALIA KANEM, UNFPA Executive Director

A JOURNALIST’S HANDBOOK SECOND EDITION

2 3 media trainer CONTENTS

SECTION PAGE — NADINE NIMRI, Jordanian journalist and journalist — NADINE NIMRI, Jordanian

Introduction 7 Defining Gender-Based Violence 9 Common Myths 10 GBV in Humanitarian Settings — Arab States 12 The Ethical Principles of Reporting on GBV 14 Highlight: The Case for Ethical Journalism 16 Generating Ideas 18 Conducting Interviews 20 Before you report, I want you to place yourself to place yourself report, I want you Before you in the shoes of individual or group on whom were feel if you are reporting. How would you you in the same way? portrayed Highlight: The Experts Weigh In 22 Common Mistakes 24 Terminology and its Importance 24 GBV and the Law 25 Use of Images 26 Case Study: Child Marriage 28 Gender-Based Violence Data 30 Reporting Self-Test 31 Approaching Organisations 32 Glossary of References 34 UNFPA is the United Nations sexual and reproductive health agency. Our mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe and every young person’s potential is fulfilled.

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throughout theircareer. the mostdifficult tasksajournalistislikely toface Covering gender-based violence(GBV) isoneof If we cannot trust journalists to tell our stories with conscience, what hope do we have? They are supposed to be speaking up for us when we cannot do it ourselves. — BATOUL, a survivor of domestic violence living in Domiz 1 camp, Iraq their coverage —ifnotconductedunderstrict, More importantly, difficult. journalistsneedtobeaware that more the all coverage making complex andhasmany contributingfactors, misunderstood, butitisalsoincreasingly undertaking. Notonlyisthetopicitselfwidely based violence(GBV) isachallenging For a journalist, covering the topic of gender- Syria, Iraq, Palestine, andothers. countries intheArab region,includingYemen, as thosecurrentlytakingplaceinnumerous more criticalduringhumanitariancrises,such stories tobeheard.Thisfunctionbecomeseven one of the few available avenues for their violence onadailybasis,journalismconstitutes grapple withvariousformsofgender-based For womenandgirlslike Amal,many ofwhom being discussed.” our heartsout,butwerarely seeourissues easier formentotake advantageofus.We pour the traditions, rulesandlaws thatmake itmuch is adailystruggleandwearepowerlessamidst the issues impacting Syrian women and girls. “It of herway tocommunicatewithjournalistson Syrian refugee from Qamishli who had gone out through aswomeninthiscamp,” says Amal,a as thoughthey don’t understandwhatwego Ispeaktojournalists,many timesitfeels “When INTRODUCTION evade prosecution. trauma tosurvivors andallowingperpetrators to become partoftheproblem,causingfurther professionalism, journalistscanunwittingly By notadheringtorigidstandardsof stories onthisessentialtopic. journalists deliver stronger, more impactful practices thatfacilitatethe processandhelp GBV,in of addition toasimplesetofguidelinesandbest causes root and definition the on awareness. Itprovides essentialinformation journalists reportonGBVwithgreatereaseand This handbookwasdeveloped to help potential forharm. principles andapproachesminimisesthe building uponinternationally-acceptedethical of years of experience and diligent practice, While effective journalism is often the result seldom heldaccountable. culture ofimpunityinwhichperpetrators are compounding theproblemby perpetuatinga to avoid reportingonGBValtogether, further These challenges can often drive journalists allowing perpetrators toescapeprosecution. of theproblem,re-traumatising survivors and cases, journalistscanunwittingly becomepart understanding ofthelegalitiescriminal about genderandsexuality, andalackof reporting, personalbiasesandperceptions insensitive interviewingtechniques,inaccurate survivors in a multitude of ways. Between professional standards—canbeharmfulto 7 8

Sexual violence is an epidemic that thrives in times

(FGM) in the 29 countries in Africa. 29 countriesinAfrica. the in female genitalmutilatio n (FGM) More than200milliongirlsandwomen have experienced someformof beforemarried 15yearsage. of children18 years (below age), of morethose, andof than oneinthree were Worldwide, everyfamily own day. acrossthat 137 women meaning are theworld by a killed member of their were(58 percent) them of members, partners orfamily by intimate killed of total A and/or sexualviolence. More thanoneinthree womenworldwidehasexperienced eitherphysical GBV WORLDWIDE of conflict and during emergencies, once the rule of law and criminal justice systems collapse and, far too often, rape is wielded as a weapon of war. 87,000 women were intentionally Morekilled in2017. thanhalf

more than 700 million women alive todaywere marriedas — NATALIA KANEM, UNFPA Executive Director 2 1 3 4 religious andlegalinstitutions. cultural institutions,suchaseducational, often reinforcedthroughvarious socio- deprivations of liberty and abuse. This is environment thatisconducive to subordinate status,cultivating an This gives women and girls a perceived communities throughouttheglobe. social normsthatprevail innumerous patriarchal beliefs,attitudesand victims duetothedeeply-entrenched overwhelming majority of survivors and women and girls continue tobe the be at risk of gender-based violence, While women,men,boys andgirlscan perpetrated againstwomenandgirls. most commonlyusedtoreferviolence The term“gender-based violence” is Who isatrisk? called “honour”killings). marriage, femalegenitalmutilation,so- traditionalharmful practices movement, denialofresources),and violence economic (psychological andverbal abuse), slapping, beating), harassment), categories: five violence into defined Gender-based violencecanbebroadly deprivations ofliberty. physical, threats ofsuchacts,coercion, andother inflict that sexual or mental harm or suffering, acts includes It differences betweenmalesandfemales. and thatisbasedonsociallyascribed is perpetrated againstaperson’s will umbrella termforany harmfulactthat Gender-based violence(or GBV)isan when reportingonit. factors isofparamount importance GBV anditscausalcontributing surrounding it.Assuch,understanding propagates many ofthemisconceptions the subjectunderground and further is seldomopenlydiscussed,whichdrives In many cultures,gender-basedviolence violence? What isgender-based onit. reporting subject isessential,particularlywhen the Assuch,understanding underlying factorsandconsequences. Gender-based violenceisasensitive subject withnumerous DEFINING GBV (rape, sexual assault,sexual physical (hitting, violence emotional violence emotional (restrictionof (child sexual

on thefabric of society as a whole. Gender reaching risktoallwomenand girlsand by theiractionsposesaseriousandfar- by perpetrators andthe feargenerated human rights, but the impunity enjoyed Not onlyisGBVaviolationofindividual violence orso-called“honour”killings. family/community retaliate with physical particularly whenmalemembersofthe violence butcanendangertheirlives, them atgreaterriskforexploitation and This stigmatisationnotonlyplaces affected botheconomicallyandsocially. their familyorcommunity, survivors are this typeofviolence.Whenostracised by because ofthestigmaassociatedwith Survivors ofGBVmay suffereven further these conditions. death fromcomplications arising from sexually transmitted infections,and complications fromunsafeabortions, physical injuries, unwanted pregnancies, health consequencesthatincludesevere (PTSD), GBVcanhave awiderange of and post-traumatic stress disorder survivors, including anxiety, depression, of psychological disorders among level. Inadditiontocausingavariety having awiderimpactonsocietal health of survivors, in addition to on thesexual, physical andpsychological immediate and long-term consequences Gender-based violencehasserious, What aretheconsequences? power.” of whatitmeanstobeamanandmale of reinforcingsociallyconstructedideas violence committedwiththepurpose men andboys, particularlysexual of certain forms of violence against describe the “gendered dimensions GBV isalsousedby somepeopleto don’t wantto.” or forcedintomarriageeven whenyou risk ofbeingharassed, abducted,raped your ownhome,andyou arealways at into aprison.Noplaceissafe,noteven violence, “beingagirlislike beingborn Yazidi girl who is a survivor of sexual In thewordsofAvan, a17-year-old 5 Resilience, andAidingRecovery, 2012. Interventions inHumanitarianAction:ReducingRisk,Promoting Committee, GuidelinesforIntegrating Gender-basedViolence 5. GlobalProtectionCluster, Inter-Agency Standing 2020, accessedathttps://bit.ly/3c5dPYj. 4. World HealthOrganisation,Female GenitalMutilation, accssed athttps://uni.cf/3caeJTw. 3. Unicef, EndingChildMarriage:Progress and Prospects, accessed athttps://bit.ly/2PmxYPM. Homocide: Gender-related KillingofWomen andGirls, 2. UnitedNationsOfficeonDrugandCrime,GlobalStudy against Women. information, seeUNWomen GlobalDatabaseonViolence and non-partnersexual violence prevalence andhealtheffectsofintimatepartnerviolence Global andregional estimatesofviolenceagainstwomen: Medicine, SouthAfricanMedicalResearchCouncil(2013). Health andResearch,London SchoolofHygieneandTropical 1. World HealthOrganisation,DepartmentofReproductive gender-based violence. in causing,perpetuatingandaccepting and stereotypesthatalsoplay apart with sociallyprescribedgenderroles between menandwomen,combined in theunequaldistributionofpower Gender discriminationoftenresults networks aredisruptedorabsent. basic protectionmechanisms and social humanitarian crises, when even the most This riskisfurtherexacerbated during violence. gender-based of risk at more them making and marginalisation, discrimination of risk at particular girls and women place supremacy male of beliefs are simple.Deeply-rooted The rootcausesofgender-basedviolence What arethecausesofGBV? emergencies. geopolitical, economicandhumanitarian compromise thecountries’resilienceto peacebuilding, which can considerably and girlscanmake to development and tend tolimitthecontributionswomen societies inwhichGBVisaccepted justice, andsocialprogress. Moreover, liberties, freedomofexpression, social mechanisms thatsafeguardcivil the disintegration ofinherentprotection inequality andGBVcanalsocontributeto , p.2.For individualcountry 2018, 2013, 9

COMMON MYTHS About Gender-Based Violence

In most cultures, GBV is not openly discussed. As a result, several myths about GBV remain in circulation. Inaccurate perpetrator profiles, and a focus on the behaviour of GBV survivors can also influence access to justice. The media has a role to play in counteracting these inaccuracies.

Myth: GBV only affects certain Myth: Poverty and conflict are the kinds of people cause of attacks on women GBV can affect anyone. It cuts across class, race/ There are many men living in conditions of ethnicity, religion, educational level, or personal poverty or conflict who are not violent towards history. Negative assumptions about GBV women, just as there are many individuals in survivors make it difficult for them to reach out wealthy countries and in times of peace who for help. are violent towards women. While some studies living in Duhok, Iraq — LAMA, a refugee have found poverty and violent conflict to increase the likelihood of certain kinds of GBV, Myth: Sexual assault is usually it is seen as a global problem. committed by strangers According to World Health Organisation Myth: A person who has been estimates, almost a third of all women who have raped or abused will be visibly been in a relationship have experienced physical and/or sexual violence by their intimate partner, upset when discussing her ordeal and up to 70 percent of sexual assaults are Each person reacts differently to GBV. It is committed by an intimate partner. important to be aware of the wide range of reactions to such traumatic events; some survivors choose to never speak about what happened to them or they may do so after Myth: Perpetrators of violence are several months or even years, while others ‘monsters’ or ‘sick outsiders’ will choose to disclose immediately. Expecting or compelling survivors to follow a shared Perpetrators come from all walks of life. behavioural pattern is not only potentially As a result, when survivors report violence harmful to their recovery but can also shift perpetrated by their partner, an influential the focus away from perpetrators, further figure in the community, or someone who does compounding the problem. not conform to the stereotype of a perpetrator, fault if she Men frequently tell us that it is a woman’s or assaulted, because she dresses and talks is harassed woman and girl I know is every and yet a certain why, regardless of what she does. day, every being harassed they are often not believed. Myth: False reporting is widespread or used by women Myth: A woman’s choice of in order to access services and clothing and her behaviour puts resettlement her at risk Overall, false reporting is rather rare, with Abusers often blame their victims in order to under-reporting being a more widespread and make excuses for their behaviour. This is in serious problem. Research published in the itself abusive and shifts the focus away from American Journal of Epidemiology indicates that the perpetrator. It is important that abusers only around 7 percent of survivors in developing take full responsibility for their actions, and that countries officially report incidents of GBV, and reporters challenge any attempt to blame those research suggests that the fear of losing out on who are abused. housing and other services, or losing custody of children, prevents many GBV survivors from coming forward to report incidents. 2

Each person reacts differently to GBV. It is important to be aware of the wide range of reactions to such traumatic events; some survivors choose to never speak about what happened to them.

1. World Health Organisation, Global and Regional Estimates of Violence Against Women, 2013, bit.ly/1oTfGVG 2. Tia Palermo, Jennifer Bleck, and Amber Peterman, Tip of the Iceberg: Reporting and Gender-Based Violence in Developing 10 Countries, American Journal of Epidemiology, 2013. 11 “As a general best practice, journalists working in humanitarian settings are always encouraged to seek out the assistance of GBV IN HUMANITARIAN reputable organisations responding to GBV in humanitarian settings.”

What makes humanitarian There are common areas of unstable environment, and lack of SETTINGS — ARAB STATES settings different? concern facing women and girls in alternative opportunities are all factors humanitarian settings: contributing to this issue. As women and girls become separated A humanitarian crisis, geopolitical conflict, or natural disaster from their families and protective Access to support Sexual Exploitation and communities, norms that govern social Abuse inevitably increases the risk of gender-based violence. Covering GBV behaviour are disrupted. This presents In some places, services for GBV in these settings requires additional care to prevent harm. an array of protection concerns that survivors either do not exist at all or are Accessing humanitarian aid can carry uniquely impact such settings. very limited, and survivors are reluctant increased risks of sexual exploitation to report GBV due to fear of stigma, and abuse by individuals charged with social exclusion, so-called “honour SYRIA Mass displacement leads to increased delivering humanitarian aid, or by those violence by causing further disruptions killings,” and other reprisals. This in positions of relative economic or In Syria, nearly a decade after the crisis erupted in 2011, in community networks and creating prevents many survivors from seeking political power in their own communities. women and girls report that GBV continues to be a environments where lawlessness can life-saving support. It is not uncommon to hear of women daily reality. Additionally, online harassment, revenge thrive. However, the underlying causes or girls being engaged in “special pornography/sextortion, and sexual violence are all of GBV are associated with attitudes, Harassment and Restriction friendships” with leaders in camps, trends that were more frequently reported in 2019, while beliefs, and structures in which there is of Movement religious leaders, community leaders, forced puberty, forced pregnancy and denial of economic employers, landlords, and others. These opportunities emerged as new trends. 1 gender discrimination and an inherent imbalance of power between genders. Humanitarian conflicts often see the often include being asked for sex or an movement of women and girls curbed agreement to marry, and sometimes In recent decades, efforts have been significantly. Many women and girls involve men working in community YEMEN made to address sexual violence in have limited movement outside the organisations and distributing goods. 1 emergencies. At the same time, there is home due to fear of sexual violence and In Yemen, which is arguably facing one of the worst harassment. In some cases, extremist Sexual Violence humanitarian crises of our time, numerous forms of GBV growing recognition that populations affected by conflict and natural disaster armed groups may place additional have been reported since the onset of the crisis, including Sexual violence can be used a weapon harrasment, child marriage, sexual violence and domestic experience different forms of GBV. restrictions on women and girls, abuse. Nearly 27 percent of women displaced from Domestic violence, early marriage, and including strict dress codes, denial of of war. For instance, certain parties Yemen are below age 18, putting them at greater risk of sexual exploitation are increasingly access to education and employment, might commit sexual violence when exploitation or of negative coping mechanisms such as recognized as major concerns in such and limitations on engagement in public performing house searches, as well as child marriage or survival sex. environments, particularly given the life. While freedom of mobility was at checkpoints and in detention centres. expected disruptions in basic services, somewhat limited for many women and For example, women may be detained, livelihoods, and various protection girls prior to displacement, increased tortured and physically abused, with IRAQ mechanisms. fear of sexual assault and harassment the actions perpetrated against having has placed even further restrictions on a clear gender component. Upon release In Iraq, GBV continues to be scourge on the lives of It is estimated that more than 37 displaced women and girls. from detention and after house raids, women and girls, with restriction of movement, sexual percent of Arab women and girls have women who are believed to have been harassment, and forced marriage identified as common experienced some form of violence in Domestic Violence sexually assaulted can often be alienated trends. UNFPA estimates that 10 percent of girls aged from their families, putting them at under 14 could have undergone female genital mutilation their lifetime, with indicators showing that the percentage is likely higher due Women and girls in the Arab States further risk of abuse or neglect. Viewed in 2018, with the average age of cutting being five years as “unfit for marriage,” some may have old. to underreporting as a result of fear, region report that violence in the shame or social stigma. Moreover, given home has increased as a result of been divorced or killed. The fear of the cultural and contextual similarities displacement and conflict. According sexual violence and its consequences LIBYA between different countries in the to UNFPA’s programme data, domestic is also a trigger in the displacement of region, gender-based violence appears to violence continues to be one of the many families. Libya continues to reel from the consequences of a most frequently reported trends across protracted humanitarian crisis. Sexual violence, including follow similar patterns, with restriction sexual torture, is still widespread in Libya. Sites of sexual of movement, sexual harassment, sexual several countries. It is also important to violence include official detention centers, clandestine violence, child marriage and female note that child and forced marriage have prisons, in the context of forced labor and enslavement, genital mutilation being among the most been observed to increase the risk of during random stops and at checkpoints by armed groups, common trends observed, according to domestic violence. in urban settings by gangs, and in private homes. UNFPA’s programme data.

In humanitarian settings, reporting in Child Marriage general, and on gender-based violence SOMALIA Child marriage of girls is a relatively issues in particular, becomes even more common practice in the Arab states In Somalia, severe climatic conditions, clan and communal challenging. Not only do journalists region, but humanitarian conflicts have conflicts, and widespread poverty continue to expose assume risks to their personal safety, contributed to girls getting married women and girls to a multitude of risks. Women and girls but the potential for harmful reporting younger and under different conditions. are harassed as they journey back and forth to do petty increases. As a general best practice, trading or to seek cash paying domestic chores. Girls in For example, girls are increasingly being journalists working in humanitarian married to older men not known to the particular are persistently harassed in IDP camps and settings are always encouraged to host communities as they attempt to cover their basic family of the bride, or are entered into seek out the assistance of reputable serial marriages in order to generate needs, such as fetching water from nearby sources. Child organisations responding to GBV in marriage, female genital mutilation, intimate partner income for the family. Economic violence, sexual exploitation and abuse, and emotional humanitarian settings, such as UNFPA insecurity, the perception that marriage violence were all identified as trends over the past years. or its partner NGOs. will provide protection for girls in an 12 1. UNFPA, Overbiew of Gender-Based Violence in Syria, 2019. 1. IRC, Are We Listening? Acting on Our Commitments to Women and Girls Affected by the Syrian Conflict, 2014, bit.ly/1rZSkJO 13 THE ETHICAL PRINCIPLES Even for the most experienced journalist, filing a story about GBV is likely to be one of the most challenging assignments.

There are a number of ethical principles Impartiality Never Paying for Interviews of which journalists need to be aware when attempting to adopt a survivor- When reporting on gender-based Some journalists may be tempted to centered approach and adhering to a violence, it is of paramount importance pay money or offer gifts in exchange for “do no harm” strategy. These principles that journalists remain aware of their interviews. However, payment for this are based on the general ethics of own biases on the subject and the kind of interview is considered ethically journalism; however, in order to avoid stereotypes we harbour about women, inappropriate, as not only is it likely to harming survivors and successfully using girls, sexuality and violence. It is crucial influence the nature of the interview, journalism to effect positive change, that the subject is approached from a it can also make it harder for other additional care is required on behalf completely objective and fact-based journalists to get an interview. Offers of any journalist reporting on this far- perspective. made in cash or kind can also put undue reaching form of violence. pressure on survivors to speak to the It is not the job of a responsible journalist media. to judge or discriminate. It is particularly Duty to Inform important to ensure that reporters do not It is recommended that journalists mention details that can be interpreted contact organisations working on When reporting on GBV, it is important as blame on the gender-based violence GBV issues in the first instance before to distinguish between what is “in the survivor. For example, if a journalist attempting to secure an interview. public interest” and what is “of interest mentions the clothes worn at the time of Officials at local and international NGOs to the public.” Some GBV stories feature an attack or other aspects of a survivor may be able to talk more freely about high-profile figures and contain lots of victim’s appearance, it can be perceived GBV, and are likely to have a useful journalist, Lebanese HADDAD, — JOUMANA activist and writer. personal detail: this tends to treat the by some audiences as an implication of overview of the topic. Rather than subject in a sensationalist way, with judgement. This can be particularly true paying an interviewee directly, reporters no useful information given for GBV when writing features: some journalists may feel that a discreet donation to survivors. may attempt to add unnecessary detail an organisation working with GBV to colour their narratives, which can survivors is appropriate. unintentionally shift the focus of blame Accuracy away from the perpetrator. A Surivor-Centred Approach Getting the facts right should be at the core of all journalism, and this is Respecting Privacy A survivor-centred approach seeks to especially true when covering gender- empower survivors by putting them at based violence. While journalists’ Principled and ethical journalism means the centre of the reporting process. It interviews should be sensitive, they respecting the privacy of both gender- recognizes that each survivor is unique, should also ensure that their reporting based violence survivors and their reacts differently to gender-based is factually correct. Journalists should bereaved families. Journalists should be violence, and has different strengths, be specific when mentioning gender- wary of what is referred to as “jigsaw resources and coping mechanisms. It based violence and not attempt to report identification” when granting anonymity. also recognizes that each survivor has on criminal proceedings unless they This happens where audiences can piece the right to decide who should know understand the legal processes involved. together details, such as location, age, their story and what should happen next. Some reporters try and use euphemistic clothing or family members, even when language (e.g. “had his way with her”) journalists don’t name the survivor or Gender-based violence is a rather than accurate language (e.g. “he show their face. manifestation of inherent imbalances raped her”). This approach often leads to in power and gender equality. If people misleading reports. around survivors who are in a position Protecting Sources of power (such as reporters and service while we are certainly seeing an Unfortunately, increase in the quantity of reports on gender- based violence, we still need to place greater emphasis on quality. providers) impose their perspective, Fairness Journalists should always protect their they can unintentionally create another sources and ensure that they extend this experience where the survivors feel Journalists should always be fair protection to their fixers, translators, further disempowerment and shame. and honest with interviewees. drivers, interviewees and others helping Dealing with gender-based violence When speaking to people who have them with their story. Some communities survivors in a survivor-centred manner experienced gender-based violence, have been known to shun those who involves prioritizing their best interests journalists have the additional have spoken openly about gender-based and applying the guiding principles of responsibility of protecting potentially violence, and in some cases, so-called safety, confidentiality, respect, and non- vulnerable sources. In this context, “honour crimes” have been carried out in discrimination. Not only does this help the concept of “informed consent” is retribution for speaking out. prevent re-traumatisation, but it is also particularly important: this means that the safest way to effectively leverage the the person you interview should be Speaking to a journalist carries many risks power of journalism to GBV while doing made fully aware of the consequences of for survivors and their families and could no harm in the process. appearing in the media. have serious negative repercussions for them and their families. For example, Many GBV survivors who have spoken if a survivor mentions the name of a “on the record” have later faced a range of third party in the course of narrating problems resulting from being identified, their story, it is the responsibility of the including attacks and community journalist to safeguard the privacy and rejection. For your interview to be fair, safety of that individual. you need to inform your interviewee of these potential risks. 14 15 HIGHLIGHT Consulting experts on gender-based violence and those with expertise THE CASE FOR ETHICAL in conflict settings is an SHERIZAAN MINWALLA, ESQ. important part of safely JOURNALISM DR. JOHANNA FOSTER reporting on conflict- related violence. “If the purpose of reporting on conflict-related violence, including rape, is to draw attention to atrocities, assistance, and eventual — SHERIZAAN MINWALLA, ESQ. justice, then putting the safety and protection of the sources first Minwalla is a human rights lawyer and should be paramount.” activist currently based in Iraq.

In 2014 ISIS launched genocidal gathering these stories who appeared “Eighty-five percent of give consent freely and after being fully attacks against the Yazidi people, a to disregard the extent to which the Yazidi women we informed of how their information will be small religious minority community interviews and published reports might used is essential to empowering survivors in the Ninewa Plains of northern Iraq. negatively impact highly traumatized interviewed described in the reporting on their trauma. It is ISIS killed thousands of men and boys and stigmatized survivors. incidents that could be also critical to portray survivors in a and elderly women, abducted younger defined ... as evidence dignified way, and tell a more holistic story women and girls who militants trafficked Eighty-five percent of the Yazidi women of unethical reporting about their lives that go beyond singular and brutally raped, forced children into we interviewed described incidents practices, including promises narratives of rape. military camps, forced thousands of that could be defined by the UN Global men, women and children to convert Protection Cluster Guidelines for of money or aid, pressure It is important to understand how people from the Yezidi faith to become Muslim. Reporting on Gender-Based Violence in to reveal details of their are affected by trauma to minimize the These attacks displaced close to half a Humanitarian Contexts as evidence of traumatic experiences, or risk of re-traumatization, and to avoid million people, most of whom are still unethical reporting practices, including the disclosure of identities probing and insensitive questions about unable to return home while thousands promises of money or aid, pressure without informed consent.” gender-based violence that could trigger more fled Iraq, believing it will never be to reveal details of their traumatic symptoms associated with post-traumatic safe for their people. experiences, or the disclosure of Yet, despite the emotional difficulty stress disorder. Understanding the identities without informed consent. and challenges reported, the majority context in which journalists report on “Despite the many crimes of the women (75 percent) reported conflict related sexual violence will help to ISIS committed against For example, 80 percent of all that engaging with journalists was safeguard against publishing information respondents, and 90 percent of worthwhile. Thirty-one percent of the that negatively impacts survivors and their the Yazidis, the one story the survivors, felt that journalists’ relatives. that peaked journalists’ survivors specifically reported positive disclosure of photos and other feelings or emotions after interviews, interest was the rape of identifying information put them and such as this survivor who said, “When “Our findings reinforce women and children.” their relatives still in ISIS captivity at we talk to media we feel comfortable the need for a survivour- risk for further violence and retaliation. and we feel relaxed. When we speak One survivor stated, “With photos, centred approach to Despite the many crimes ISIS to the media they make us comfortable reporting on conflict- committed against the Yezidis, the one even with my face covered, I did not because we said our story and when story that peaked journalists’ interest feel safe. They [ISIS] know everything people talk, they feel more relaxed.” related sexual violence.” was the rape of women and children. about me. They can know me from my In 2014 and 2015 many Yezidis eyes. Even I know them when they are Consulting experts on gender-based 2 Equally concerning is escaped and were rescued from ISIS covered and just by their eyes.” violence and those with expertise in and journalists from Iraq and around the fact that 54 percent conflict settings is an important part the world flocked to the camps in the Equally concerning is the fact that 54 of respondents overall, of safely reporting on conflict-related Kurdistan Region to interview them. percent of respondents overall, and and almost 70 percent of violence in which people continue to Journalists interviewed many survivors almost 70 percent of survivors, felt survivors, felt that women face multiple risks in their families, multiple times, and the narrative that that women who had escaped ISIS who had escaped ISIS communities, and countries. emerged from this genocide was almost experienced strong negative emotional singularly focused on horrific reports and physical responses during the experienced strong negative If the purpose of reporting on conflict of sexual violence, often perpetrated interviews with journalists, and half emotional and physical related-violence, including rape, is to draw against young girls. of the survivors described having responses during the attention to atrocities, assistance, and flashbacks, as well as feelings of sadness, interviews with journalists. eventual justice, then putting the safety In our research, we explored how Yezidi fatigue, crying, self-flagellation, and and protection of the sources first should women themselves felt about the fainting during or after interviews. “It Our findings reinforce the need for be paramount. ways in which journalists gathered and is difficult,” said another survivor, “and a survivor-centered approach to reported on their stories.1 Overall, a when they come here, each time we tell reporting on conflict related sexual majority of our respondents described them our stories, we go back to them, violence in all aspects of gathering experiences with, or perceptions about, like a flashback. We just go back again information and traumatic storytelling. reporters that suggested a patterned to ISIS. I remember everything.” Taking steps to ensure that survivors breach in ethics among journalists

1. Johanna E. Foster, Sherizaan Minwalla, Voices of Yazidi women: Perceptions of journalistic practices in the reporting on ISIS sexual violence, 2018, accessed at: https://bit.ly/3aDJ8aW 16 2. Ibid. 17 INFORMED CONSENT GENERATING IDEAS In the context of interviewing a gender-based violence survivor, “informed consent” occurs when someone, without coercion, fully understands the consequences of their decision to speak, and consents freely. For this to Interviewing survivors is not the only way route to a good story happen, a journalist must avoid putting pressure on a survivor to agree to an interview, as well as explaining what will be kept confidential and the limits of confidentiality, the objective of the interview, and the potential risks and on GBV. There are a multitude of ways in which journalists can benefits of speaking out. There is no consent when agreement is obtained through deception or misinterpretation, or if the power dynamic between the interviewer and interviewee means that the right to decline or refuse any effectively tackle the subject without putting survivors at risk. part of the interview is in any way limited.

In practice, this means that journalists is taking place or one where displaced report that many survivors or refugees covering GBV are likely to have to individuals are actively seeking refuge, are reluctant to be interviewed for Journalists are also encouraged to And finally, unusual or quirky work harder when generating story developing stories on the plight of the fear of being targeted, or because think about new themes as opposed stories can put a human face to a ideas and finding creative angles to women and girls in conflict can help to of mistrust of the media. According to those that have already been humanitarian crisis. These may not tackle the subject matter. They will also address the misinformation and myths to Maurice Aaek, a reporter from covered extensively. Early pregnancy be directly about GBV but more need to think creatively about sources, that inevitably crop up during such Lebanon who has extensively covered and marriage, for example, have about the representation of girls and details and the overall message of their events. Rather than ignoring or simply the Syria crisis, “Syrian refugees are frequently appeared in many media women during humanitarian crises. reporting in order to produce the kind of repeating these, journalists should seek often reluctant to speak to journalists. outlets.. In some countries, there has For example, these can be highlights news and features items that will yield to explore whether these are actually They were more open when the conflict been a greater focus on sex work that show how refugee communities positive change and remain relevant for true or if there are greater depths to began as they were trying to raise their and trafficking, which has led to an are making real-life contributions in their audiences. these stories that audiences may want voices. But now, many are disappointed assumption amongst some men that development, peacebuilding, art or to be informed about. and think that the media is using them. certain segments of the population (e.g. other fields. Stories could also focus on Giving Stories Depth They’ve become more defensive.” refugees) are sexually available, further a particular segment (e.g. adolescent Contact Official Sources placing these communities at greater girls) and highlight their resilience in the Upon examining the vast majority This further highlights the importance risks of sexual harassment and assault. face of displacement or violence. of stories published on GBV, most When it comes to official sources, of being extra careful when interviewing have one thing in common: they often the resources section (pages 32-33) refugees, survivors or other individuals Follow-up features and “diary stories” approach the subject in the form of of this handbook is a good place to who are at a disadvantage or power allow for in-depth analysis of GBV isolated incidents and seldom tackle the begin, although journalists are of disparity. More often than not, the issues. For example, journalists could issue as a human rights phenomenon. course encouraged to cultivate their actions of a single journalist can affect write a feature on the anniversary of As a result, audiences are rarely given own contacts. There are a number how refugees and survivors view the the start of a given conflict, or make One of the core functions the opportunity to connect the issue of local and international NGOs and media industry as a whole, further a package in advance of a planned to social norms, gender stereotypes, UN agencies working to respond to underscoring the importance of event, such as the 16 Days of Activism of journalism is to find new and human rights, but are instead given humanitarian crises, many of whom adhering to professional guidelines at Against Gender Violence campaign in and informative angles isolated reports of rape, domestic are listed in the resources section. all times. November, or International Women’s assault, child marriage, and other types Places like the UN High Commissioner Day in March. Inevitably, these will be from which a subject can of GBV. Issues such as gender, gender for Refugees (UNHCR) data portal Desk Research has its Place features rather than “hard news” items. be explored to reveal new, norms and the rights of women and girls can be a useful resource for updated, Such planned items give journalists the are also seldom discussed. factual information. The humanitarian Whilst journalists should not rely on it, advantage of extra time in which to insightful conclusions. This response network in the region is desk research is an integral component carry out research or record additional is especially true in the case Even when writing news stories, a fairly broad alliance that includes of the writing process. Knowing what interviews. Some editors welcome of gender-based violence, journalists should endeavour to NGOs, UN agencies, governments, civil other media organisations are producing such pre-prepared “behind-the-news” present their findings as part of a well- servants, community organisations, and on this topic and keeping up-to-date material on their running orders and where conventional researched, thoroughly documented leaders. It is, therefore, a good idea to with the wires and social media can be pages, and in some cases, these can approaches might not narratives, preferably ones that explore cultivate a range of sources. useful, as can keeping track of blogs and be used later in a bigger news story gender-based violence as a prevailing Facebook pages created by refugees on the intended day of publication or always be feasible. social phenomenon. Such stories should Generally, a constructive first step is and displaced people themselves. Many broadcast. try delving beyond the individual acts to speak with official contacts on a organisations produce reports, surveys, — Etaf Roudan, Jordanian journalist of violence being inflicted upon women regular basis. Such official contacts and campaigns that can be a useful However, there are other GBV topics and to explore the causal factors may be able to arrange field visits to source of data and story ideas; many which have somewhat been overlooked underlying the violence. These can take conflict locations or camps, where also have mailing lists. There are also a by the vast majority of journalists. These numerous forms: for example, it can access to stories might be easier. It is number of participatory programmes include issues like domestic violence, be a feature exploring GBV in refugee also important to remember that the involving refugees themselves; these privacy issues faced by refugees living communities and the social inequalities majority of refugees and displaced include photography, theatre, and in cramped conditions, access to that underly it; an investigative report individuals do not live in camps or other video projects. While also providing an services, the role of men in combating on child marriage from the lens of humanitarian settings but tend to reside interesting angle, journalists may be violence, unemployment, and poverty culture, religion or other relevant in host communities. This, in itself, is an able to source images and footage this and its impact on GBV. In addition to institutions; or a story that sheds light angle that may be worth exploring as way. approaching alternative subjects within on survivors of gender-based violence audiences are used to seeing images of the scope of GBV, media coverage of and the personal achievements they refugees in camps. Find a Hook GBV can be improved by exploring the have made on their road to recovery. issue from different angles. Journalists Engage with People When thinking about ideas for GBV can explore the issue from a survivor Where to Begin features, journalists are encouraged perspective or by examining its impact Journalists should also speak to to think about “news pegs,” i.e., items on families, whilst approaching the Personal experience and observation is refugees and displaced people already on the news agenda to which topic from a legal or health perspective an obvious starting point and journalists themselves: it is only by giving them they can “peg” their stories. This will is likely to lead to a more informational are likely to hear stories from friends, a voice that we can ensure that their help when journalists are pitching their piece. neighbours, even shopkeepers and taxi stories are told with compassion and stories or convincing their editors to drivers. Whether journalists are based humanity. This will involve building a include the item. in countries where a humanitarian crisis certain level of trust, as some journalists 18 19 CONDUCTING INTERVIEWS Everybody reacts differently to violence and trauma. It is important to remember this when interviewing survivors, because Interviews with survivors are generally discouraged. In rare instances no two reactions will be the same. If you are looking for the “classic where they are necessary, there are a number of considerations for victim” response, you will find that it does not exist, and you might journalists to keep in mind in order to avoid causing harm. miss out on the importance of a story because your interviewee does not conform to your idea of which emotions are “appropriate” In the course of developing stories on full knowledge of the consequences it is important that everyone involved to the situation. gender-based violence, it may be a of the interview, must be obtained. understands and agrees on the journalist’s first instinct to interview This includes requesting informed sensitive nature of the process. This — BBC, iLearn guide to sensitive and survivors. To many journalists, forming consent on whether their real name includes explicit warnings provided to a clear understanding of a given subject should be used. Moreover, explicit interpreters, fixers, security teams, and traumatic interviews requires interviewing people who permission is always required when any production crew. are fairly knowledgeable in it or, even taking photographs, videos, or voice better, have first-hand experience with recordings, and journalists need to Moreover, journalists are advised to it. clearly explain how these will be used. beware of the effects of questioning that can reactivate the pain and Unfortunately, when dealing with Be mindful of power grief associated with a survivor’s SOME HELPFUL TIPS human rights issues, this clearly disparities exposure to GBV: survivors have been raises a number of ethical dilemmas. through traumatising experiences, so Emphasize the confidential nature When is it appropriate to interview a Journalists should involve the interviewers need to be mindful not to of the interview and the fact that the GBV survivor? How detailed should interviewee in decisions about the intentionally cause additional trauma survivor has the full right to decide the questions be? If the interviewee interview. Journalists should be aware with their questions. The interviewee what happens to the story, even after becomes upset, should the interview be that, in an interaction with a journalist has the right to decline answering any stopped? or a UN/NGO communications officer, question being asked, and may choose the interview is conducted. there may be a power differential to end the interview early. Below are some helpful guidelines between a reporter and a GBV survivor. to help journalists get started. It is They may feel compelled or otherwise “Survivors have been important to remember that each pressured into speaking, even if this through traumatising survivor is unique and reacts to trauma is not something with which they feel Listen intently and refrain from making experiences, so interviewers unnecessary follow-up remarks until in different ways, so the journalists are entirely comfortable. Journalists and need to be mindful not encouraged to be mindful and take their communication personal must ensure the survivor has finished speaking. You cues from the interviewee at all times. that survivors are given full autonomy to intentionally cause are there as an objective informant over their stories and experiences. additional trauma with their and not as a therapist. Avoid displays Research First questions.” of emotion or affection that go beyond This does not suggest that journalists professional interactions. The interview process should begin with should never interview GBV survivors: There can be a high level of mistrust extensive research, such as by speaking many have given powerful testimonies amongst GBV survivors. You will need to GBV service providers in the area to that have brought the issue to public to explain why you are carrying out the acquire a more in-depth understanding attention. interview, and to treat your interviewee of the context. If possible, journalists with respect. Explaining when and Carefully reflect on each question in should seek out counsellors or case However, journalists may be able to where an interview will appear is part of this process. the context. If a survivor has already managers who have handled survivor produce an equally effective story by touched upon the topic you are about cases. Interviewing such individuals speaking to local organisations working often spares survivors the need to be with GBV survivors, or UN agencies. It Be specific and accurate in your to broach, consider moving on to the interviewed themselves and can offer is good practice to find out about the language, and avoid euphemistic next question. Forcing survivors to plenty in terms of usable materials, local medical, legal, and psychosocial language or expressions whilst repeat details can be re-traumatizing. such as direct but anonymous quotes, support services available for GBV remaining respectful in your manner. descriptions of events, and others. Once survivors, and to share this information Ask open rather than closed questions the background information is fully with your audience as well as with the and remember to allow plenty of time available, the decision to proceed with people you contact for an interview. for this type of interview. It would the interview becomes much easier. clearly be disrespectful to “rush” GBV Keep the focus on the facts throughout During the Interview interviewees. As such, you will need to the interview. Avoid directing the Be aware of the risks plan your time effectively, taking into discussion toward emotionality or There are a number of preparatory steps account travel time, which in some conjecture. Journalists should be fully aware of that journalists can take to ensure that areas can be unpredictable owing to the potential risks to the person that the process is conducted professionally security reasons. is being interviewed: will they become and with the least possible harm. You victims of revenge attacks for speaking should discuss with the survivor where Payment for this type of interview, out publicly? Will their community shun the interview should be conducted whether in cash or gifts of any kind, If a survivor struggles or shows any them for doing so? Will the interview be and who will be present; for example, is considered poor ethics; not only is it likely to make it harder for other signs of discomfort, consider ending traumatic for the survivor? they may wish to have a friend, family the interview immediately, or defer member, or a social worker present. A journalists to cover the story, but it will The interviewee may not fully female reporter and interpreter should also cloud the content of the interview. to any specialists present on the best appreciate these risks. Consequently, carry out interviews with female GBV It could also put potentially vulnerable course of action. before proceeding with the interview, survivors. Given that ensuring safety GBV survivors in a position of reliving informed consent i.e., consent with and confidentiality are key priorities, traumatic in exchange for money. 20 21 HIGHLIGHT

COVERING GENDER-BASED I wanted to highlight how women, both on the frontlines and behind the scenes, are shaping the THE EXPERTS WEIGH IN future of Syria and helping entire generations recover VIOLENCE from the worst of the crisis.

Rana Husseini, Joumana Haddad, Milia Eidmouni and Lina Ejeilet have been — MILIA EIDMOUNI, Syrian journalist and co-founder of the covering women’s rights and gender-based violence for many years. When Syrian Female Journalist Network asked about the role of journalism in transforming harmful social norms, they all agreed: continuous and survivor-centred reporting on GBV is essential.

“When you are attempting to shatter of abuse,” recalls Husseini. “Later, my which in many cases can cause harm stereotypes: the victim, the widow, “Being bold in tackling certain topics The Impact of Journalism the culture of shame and fear investigations took me to a variety to the survivors themselves or their the wife of a prisoner, the hostage, the is admirable, but being consistent in surrounding gender-based violence, of other sources, including forensic families. “What I would like to see most vulnerable — all of which failed to professionalism and quality is another In August 2017, the Jordanian you need to expect some resistance at experts, lawyers, former judges, and from journalists is greater consistency capture the individualized humanity challenge entirely, particularly when Parliament voted to abolish the first,” explains Rana Husseini, an award- social workers, all in an attempt to in quality, particularly when it comes of these women and the remarkable facing more challenging stories and controversial Article 308 of the winning Jordanian journalist, author, illustrate as accurately a picture as to adhering to the basic principles of strength they have” explains Eidmouni. deadlines,” explains Ejeilat. “More Jordanian Penal Code, which allowed and human rights activist who has possible for my readers.” accuracy, objectivity and thoroughness. “I wanted to highlight how women, often than not, a good story requires sexual assault perpetrators to escape been influential in bringing so-called Journalists are also encouraged to both on the frontlines and behind the significantly more time for the subject punishment if they married their honour crimes against women to public This gave Husseini more insight into explore the subject in a multitude scenes, are shaping the future of Syria to be explored from multiple angles, victims. Activists and journalists alike attention and encouraging changes the phenomenon of so-called “honour” of approaches, including long-form and helping entire generations recover and to be supported by facts, quotes, had campaigned for years to abolish in the law in Jordan to bring stronger crimes, in which women and girls features that allow for greater from the worst of the crisis.” and background information that goes the law, demonstrating the impact penalties for these types of crimes. were being murdered in the name of exploration of the root causes and beyond the obvious.” that journalism can have in promoting preserving or “cleansing” the family contributing factors.” When asked what advice she has equality. That same year, parliaments “It took some time for name. She reported on the subject for aspiring journalists in the field, When it comes to gender-based in Tunisia and Lebanon also passed me to build my network frequently to ensure that it remained “As a journalist, you Eidmouni said: “Be objective. As a violence, this entails touching upon landmark laws, one to criminalise a part of public discourse, making sure cannot come to a story journalist, you cannot come to a story the many factors surrounding the all violence against women and – to cultivate a growing that criminal proceedings were also with any preconceived notions or violence itself, such as inherent socio- another revoking a similar law to the number of sources.” covered extensively. with any preconceived beliefs. You have to be completely economic inequalities, legal biases,, one abolished in Jordan. In all three notions or beliefs.” objective to be able to explore the issue and others, all of which intertwine to cases, change followed years of public “If you are considering actively covering From there, women’s rights and issues from a human rights perspective.” disenfranchise women and girls and discussion and consistent coverage by gender-based violence, there is became her area of expertise, launching In her reporting, Haddad emphasizes justify the violence being perpetrated journalists across multiple platforms, definitely a learning curve involved, but a career that inspired countless other the need for boldly challenging taboos, Eidmouni also called upon journalists against them. further underscoring the importance of the value of the work is unquestionable,” reporters to break through the walls of particularly those that work to restrict to perform exhaustive research when quality reporting in the fight for social adds Husseini. “It took some time for silence on gender-based violence. freedom of speech or discourage attempting to discuss issues like “It is integral for justice. me to build my network – to cultivate a challenging accepted patriarchal gender-based violence. “The lack of editors and journalists growing number of sources and to build social norms on gender and gender- adequate knowledge or understanding When taken in isolation, these sufficient trust so that my reporting not Quantity vs. Quality based violence. “We need courageous of the subject and its various nuances to be on the same page achievements may seem small, only became impactful but also began thinkers who are able to look beyond can be harmful to both the journalist when it comes to these however they are indicative of larger changing long standing perceptions “We can clearly see the impact that customs, rituals and laws and to call out and the survivor, so journalists need to issues.” tectonic shifts taking place on a about women, girls and violence within courageous journalists throughout the injustice wherever it thrives.” ensure that they have consulted official fundamental sociological level. This the community.” region have had in raising awareness organisations, gender specialists, is where journalism stands to make on gender-based violence,” explains psychologists, and other key experts to Ejeilat also emphasized the importance Dismantling Stereotypes of organisations adopting clear the greatest impact — by slowly and Joumana Haddad, renowned Lebanese strengthen their narrative. gradually shifting perspectives, biases journalist, editor and author. Haddad’s guidelines that encapsulate their A Place to Start When the crisis in Syria erupted editorial identities, which she explained and long-held beliefs, and by holding writing has significantly impacted the people across all spheres accountable women’s rights movement in Lebanon, in 2011, geopolitical and cultural A Harmonious Voice remains lacking throughout the regional Husseini began reporting in 1993, back limitations meant that only a handful media industry. This, she added, puts for their actions or their silence. when issues surrounding women’s challenging numerous social norms and broadening the limits of freedom of journalists were actually able to Eidmouni’s sentiments are echoed by journalists in challenging situations as rights, social norms and gender-based access the frontlines to report on the they often tread unexplored territories violence were seldom openly discussed of speech. “Unfortunately, while we Lina Ejeilat, a prominent Jordanian are certainly seeing an increase in the issues impacting women and girls. One journalist and co-founder of the without the necessary support from in the public sphere. As a staunch such reporter was Milia Eidmouni, who editors and organisations. activist for equality, Hussaini began quantity of reports on gender-based independent online magazine, 7iber violence, we still need to place greater also co-founded the Syrian Female (Arabic for Ink). According to Ejeilat, leveraging the power of journalism Journalist Network in an effort to “It is integral for editors and journalists to raise awareness on the issues emphasis on quality.” 7iber was established with the objective increase coverage of gender justice of promoting a society that upholds to be on the same page when it comes impacting women and girls. By adopting and women’s rights. The network to these issues, and to ensure that all a straightforward and fact-based “What I would like to see values of accountability, rule of law, also had another key objective: to human rights, and pluralism through policies and regulations are conducive approach, her reporting quickly began from journalists is greater enact a professional code of conduct to a free and constructive exploration having an impact. in-depth multimedia journalism. consistency in quality.” that helped to break stereotypes This included having the courage to of gender, violence and other core surrounding women in media. issues,” added Ejeilat. “I wanted to investigate the stories deconstruct issues such as gender and I heard on a daily basis from family According to Haddad, coverage of gender-based violence and to approach women’s issues and gender-based “What I saw was that conventional their analysis from an unbiased, members, neighbours, and colleagues, media was depicting Syrian woman all of which showed a growing pattern violence in the Arab States region still evidence-based and intersectional gravitates toward sensationalism, according to rigid, one-dimensional human rights perspective.

22 23 Journalists are encouraged to put themselves in the shoes of COMMON MISTAKES survivors and to tailor their reporting accordingly. Empathy is the best starting point for ethical reporting. When reporting on gender-based violence, these are the most common pitfalls in which journalists find themselves. —NADINE NIMRI, Jordanian journalist and activist

Bringing individual biases Focusing on details of GBV into the narrative victims / survivors Inappropriate language

The job of the journalist is to inform. When reports focus on details such as Using vague or euphemistic language GBV AND THE LAW As such, allowing personal beliefs and the dress, personal habits, or physical (see page 8) leads to inaccurate attitudes, including cultural, religious appearance of GBV survivors, the journalism, which is misleading for Writing about GBV requires a clear understanding of certain aspects of criminal, or other biases to colour the narrative focus tends to shift away from the your audience. Have a look at the civil, and traditional law. These vary greatly from country to country and journalists is considered blatantly unethical. This perpetrator; at worst, this can result in glossary (see page 38) in order to includes judging — either directly blaming the survivor, which contributes understand the terminology used when are encouraged to carry out their own research in their area of operation and, or indirectly — the appearances, to an atmosphere where it becomes describing GBV. Choice of vocabulary is where possible, to seek further advice from their organisation’s legal team. demeanour or actions of a GBV more difficult for women to report GBV particularly important when covering survivor, and including any additional crimes or access services, and easier for this topic. details that may be interpreted as such. perpetrators to go unpunished. “Writing about GBV requires a clear understanding of certain aspects of criminal, civil, and traditional law.” Identifying details of GBV Insufficient understanding survivors Lack of research of criminal proceedings It is also helpful for journalists to have lawyers amongst their contacts, as this can benefit all aspects of journalism, even beyond reporting on GBV. Laws relating to There will be many occasions when From your initial story idea, through to Reporting on criminal proceedings in GBV are changing and journalists need to keep up with these changes, as this in and you will speak to GBV survivors, and reporting during criminal proceedings any case requires a thorough and solid of itself can be approached as a story. For example, when Lebanon rectified its Law it will be inappropriate to publish or and following up on stories, journalists understanding of the law. Journalists are encouraged to carefully review on Protection of Women and Family Members from Domestic Violence in 2014, broadcast their name or any other need to research GBV thoroughly. This the first convictions relating to the new law provided a solid follow-up story and detail that can reveal their identity. means speaking to experts, carrying out the legal nuances of any case they are Putting interviewees at further risk covering and to consult attorneys and allowed for a greater exploration of how changes in the legal framework can bring desk research, and understanding the about positive changes on the societal level. can have damaging consequences; you medical, legal, and social angles to GBV. official organisations when necessary should avoid details that could enable to verify their understanding. “jigsaw” identification. “It is also helpful for journalists to have lawyers amongst their contacts, as this can benefit all aspects of journalism.”

TERMINOLOGY AND ITS IMPORTANCE Negative attitudes and practices of police and judicial staff towards GBV survivors prevent many from seeking legal redress. There is often a lack of resources to Language is both incredibly adaptable most contexts, because this implies Ultimately, journalists will need to tailor and highly relative. When reporting on resilience and empowerment. The their narrative to ensure that language pursue legal action, further compounded by challenges in providing corroborating sensitive issues, more often than not, term “honour killing” assigns a positive used is simple, clear and understood evidence from witnesses for crimes relating to GBV. meanings can be either unintentionally connotation to murder, and is neither by the target audience. This includes either diluted or lost in the narrative due accurate nor impartial. Whilst a range avoiding the use of potentially confusing Controversial legislation exists throughout the Arab States region, which can to the use of inappropriate terminology. of alternatives has been suggested phrases and taking the time necessary to impact the proceedings of various GBV cases and contribute to further impunity (including “family femicide”, “shame explain terminologies that the journalist by perpetrators. While many Arab countries have introduced positive legislative When it comes to reporting on gender- killings”, and “patriarchal killings”), feels their readers may be unfamiliar reforms that promote gender equality and protect women from violence, based violence, the use of clear, objective none has become dominant. A common with. guaranteeing equality before the law remains a persistent challenge across the and accurate language is of paramount solution is to add a prefix, quotation region based on the results of an extensive study of gender justice and the law that importance, as the proper use of various marks, or both (as in so-called “honour It is considered good newsroom practice 1 GBV-related terminologies. This not killing”). to agree on a form of words for certain explored the legal framework in 18 countries in the region. only results in a more reader-friendly key terms, particularly if they are used and impactful story but can also help The use of inaccurate terms often. Larger media organisations have Legal gaps in many countries continue to deny women equality before the law. For ensure that information is not distorted a style guide —sometimes as part of example, the constitutions of several countries do not guarantee gender equality, during delivery. or phrases when reporting editorial/producers’ guidelines — to and penal codes in at least five countries still exonerate a rapist from punishment if on GBV can inadvertently ensure conformity of language. Such he marries his victim in at least 5 countries. Penal codes in 11 countries also allow In many cases, the use of inaccurate alleviate the weight of a guides can serve as a valuable tool in for mitigating circumstances, such as adultery, to decrease penalties or exonerate terms or phrases when reporting on crime, further contributing to improving output generally and not just perpetrators of so called “honour” killings, while none of the countries included in GBV can inadvertently alleviate the for defining words related to GBV. the study explicitly criminalizes marital rape. weight of a crime, further contributing the environment of impunity to the environment of impunity enjoyed enjoyed by perpetrators. by perpetrators. The use of euphemistic terminology to “Legal gaps in many countries continue to deny women Journalists may also inadvertently describe GBV acts is often confusing equality before the law.” use problematic language that may and inaccurate: for example, “He forced compromise the impartiality of himself on her” is vague, and could the narrative or reinforce harmful be used to describe a wide range of associations or preconceptions. Moreover, in most countries in the region, the legal age for marriage is 18 for both assaults. The term “rape” has a far more boys and girls, but courts can allow boys and girls to be married earlier: as early as specific meaning, i.e., non-consensual For example, it is preferable to use the penetration. This handbook includes a 13 years for girls in some countries. In Lebanon, for example, there is no standard term “survivor” rather than ‘victim’ in full glossary of terms on pages 34-35. minimum age of marriage as this depends on the individual’s religion, which demonstrates the need for journalists to accurately reference the law.

24 States Region, 2018, accessed at: in the Arab Gender Justice and the Law ESCWA, UN Women, UNDP, 1.UNFPA, https://arabstates.unfpa.org/en/publications/gender-justice-and-law-arab-states-region 25 USE OF IMAGES

Whether a journalist works online, in the print media, or for a TV station, it is likely that a striking image will significantly boost coverage of their GBV story, particularly if an original image (as opposed to stock photography) is used. This presents an ethical dilemma. Without informed consent, you should not identify the GBV survivor; therefore, you should beware of filming details that might identify.

Be careful about using conventional privacy tactics, such as pixilation, scrambling voices, or filming into light, as these techniques are not always failproof. Anything distinctive, such as a headscarf, wedding ring, furniture in a home, or a family member, can easily reveal the identity of an anonymous source and cause a problem. When images are used, clear labelling is vital to prevent misinterpretation.

You will need to be creative in your solutions: for example, photographs or video of a busy marketplace or public area are less likely to be associated with a GBV survivor than shots of their home or street.

26 27 CASE STUDY: CHILD MARRIAGE GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE Child marriage is among the most common negative coping PROGRAMMING mechanisms in humanitarian crises and can have lasting ramifications for the protection of adolescent girls. PREVENTION & RESPONSE

“Some people may say that marrying off The coverage has helped focus attention Writing about GBV requires a clear explored the legal framework in 18 a young girl can help resolve some of her on the problem, and has contributed to understanding of certain aspects of countries in the region.1 problems,” explains May, an adolescent efforts of the humanitarian community SOME FACTS ABOUT criminal, civil, and traditional law. These girl from Shatila Camp, Lebanon. “Even to mobilize resources and to establish vary greatly from country to country Legal gaps in many countries continue some naïve girls themselves may think services to work on the issue. CHILD MARRIAGE and journalists are encouraged to carry to deny women equality before the so, and get excited at the prospect of out their own research in their area of law. For example, the constitutions of having their own house and family. However, this media attention has also operation and, where possible, to seek several countries do not guarantee But the truth is that girls my age know perpetrated the idea that any Syrian Child marriage (sometimes further advice from their organisation’s gender equality, and penal codes in at nothing about life, responsibilities, and girl is ready to get married very young. called “early marriage”) is legal team. least five countries still exonerate a what it takes to run a home or raise a Syrian girls and their families reported defined as marriage before an rapist from punishment if he marries family. They’ll wind up escaping one set feeling that the media contributed to a individual reaches the age of “Writing about GBV his victim in at least 5 countries. Penal of problems and falling into new ones. negative perception of Syrian women 18 years. codes in 11 countries also allow for There is no way that child marriage and girls, and sometimes reacted by requires a clear mitigating circumstances, such as resolves anything, and more girls need increasing isolation and control over understanding of certain adultery, to decrease penalties or to be told that.” young women in particular. Despite near-universal aspects of criminal, civil, and exonerate perpetrators of so called commitments to end child traditional law.” “honour” killings, while none of “The truth is that girls my “This media attention has marriage, one in three girls the countries included in the study age know nothing about also perpetrated the idea in developing countries It is also helpful for journalists to have explicitly criminalizes marital rape. — excluding China — will lawyers amongst their contacts, as this life, responsibilities, and that any Syrian girl is ready probably be married before can benefit all aspects of journalism, “Legal gaps in many what it takes to run a to get married very young.” they are 18 years of age. even beyond reporting on GBV. Laws countries continue to deny home or raise a family.” relating to GBV are changing and Furthermore, because of the perception journalists need to keep up with these women equality before the Children and young people often that child marriage is not a “real” One out of nine girls will be changes, as this in and of itself can be law.” suffer in times of conflict; they form form of GBV, some journalists have married before their 15th approached as a story. For example, a vulnerable group whose rights are been unscrupulous in sharing details, birthday. Most of these girls when Lebanon rectified its Law on Moreover, in most countries in the frequently violated with impunity. Part including pictures of young brides, are financially underprivileged, Protection of Women and Family region, the legal age for marriage is of the reason for this is that they are not potentially placing them at risk of less-educated, and living in Members from Domestic Violence in 18 for both boys and girls, but courts listened to: often, adults don’t believe possible retaliation by other members rural areas. 2014, the first convictions relating to can allow boys and girls to be married children and young people when they of the community. the new law provided a solid follow- earlier: as early as 13 years for girls are victims of violence; this can lead up story and allowed for a greater in some countries. In Lebanon, for to a culture of silence. They are often In the next decade, 14.2 million exploration of how changes in the legal example, there is no standard minimum powerless, and it can be much easier to girls aged below 18 years will framework can bring about positive age of marriage as this depends ignore, for example, child sexual abuse be married every year. This changes on the societal level. on the individual’s religion, which within a community than it is to face up translates into 39,000 girls demonstrates the need for journalists to it and deal with the problem. married each day. “It is also helpful for to accurately reference the law in their journalists to have lawyers coverage. “Child marriage in refugee amongst their contacts, as communities in Jordan, this can benefit all aspects of UNFPA’S GBV INTERVENTIONS — ARAB STATES Lebanon, Iraq, Turkey, and journalism.” Egypt is one of the main GBV concerns in the area. “ Negative attitudes and practices of UNFPA works to ensure quality life-saving services are available police and judicial staff towards GBV to GBV survivors throughout the Arab States region. UNFPA In some countries, parents encourage I’ve seen girls as young as survivors prevent many from seeking works with partners, civil society, and governments to establish children, and girls in particular, to get legal redress. There is often a lack of married at a young age in the hope fourteen years become resources to pursue legal action, further strategies to prevent and mitigate the risks of GBV. that marriage will benefit them both compounded by challenges in providing socially and economically. In reality, mothers. I’ve seen them forced corroborating evidence from witnesses UNFPA supports Safe Spaces in the region, where women and this has serious repercussions on the for crimes relating to GBV. girls can access psychosocial activities as well as other GBV lives of children who experience it. For response services. It works closely with ministries of health and example, the risk of maternal death for to marry, sometimes beaten Controversial legislation exists other health providers to ensure the availability of survivor- mothers aged under 15 years in low- throughout the Arab States region, centered post-rape treatment. and middle-income countries is double into it, and I have also seen which can impact the proceedings of that of older females. various GBV cases and contribute to UNFPA, in collaboration with other agencies, is also the lead of some of them die giving birth. further impunity by perpetrators. While Child marriage in refugee communities many Arab countries have introduced the GBV coordination groups in the region, providing strategic in Jordan, Lebanon, Iraq, Turkey, and positive legislative reforms that direction, and technical expertise. Egypt is one of the main GBV concerns — UM RAAD, a midwife Damascus, Syria promote gender equality and protect in the area. The issue has received a lot women from violence, guaranteeing For more details about UNFPA’s strategy on GBV, please see the of media attention during the past few equality before the law remains a UNFPA Regional Strategy on Prevention and Response to Gender- years, with mixed consequences. persistent challenge across the region Based Violence in the Arab States (https://bit.ly/38EnPWn). based on the results of an extensive study of gender justice and the law that

28 29 GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE DATA REPORTING SELF-TEST How common is gender-based violence? When reporting on Before handing in your story, consider reviewing the following this sensitive topic, statistics and data have their place, but can points to ensure that your reporting will do no harm. sometimes detract from the core focus of the message.

Obtaining prevalence data on GBV is a challenge. This is particularly true 1 4 6 during humanitarian emergencies, Have you made every effort Have you been specific in your Have you used plain language where service limitations, security and possible to avoid conducting an terminology, and avoided vague that the audience can understand access constraints can make it difficult interview with the survivor? or ambiguous euphemisms? and explained unfamiliar to get accurate data. More generally, language? the stigma associated with GBV often In the course of developing your story, For example, “the guard molested her” has prevents people from coming forward. Being bold in tackling have you conducted all the necessary a different meaning from “the guard raped The glossary (see pages 32-33) explains research and consulted the proper official her.” This is because terms like “molest,” some of the terminology used by people “The stigma associated with certain topics is admirable, sources/authorities? and “sexual activity” are vague, while who work on GBV issues: you are likely GBV often prevents people rape is a specific crime that tells us what to have to explain or rephrase some of but being consistent Have you checked with any of the happened. these terms in plain language for a general from coming forward.” organisations providing GBV support audience. Print and web journalists in professionalism services for additional information and If you are covering a court case, have you may need to explain to sub-editors, the Data on GBV usually reflects only possible quotes? referred to the specific alleged crimes reasons for specific terminology used in reported incidents, which are and quality is another and sentence as they relate to the law? a particular article; more generally, you considered to be a small proportion For example, ‘He was found guilty of rape may need to explain to colleagues why you of the total. A recent study indicated challenge entirely, which carries a death sentence under have covered GBV stories in a particular that only 7 percent of survivors in Jordanian law.’ way. developing countries actually report to particularly when facing a service, and less than half (46 percent) Have you avoided prejudicial descriptions of all GBV survivors even tell anyone, more challenging stories 2 of the victim? For example, ‘She was including family members or friends. wearing make-up at the time of the attack’ Most evidence about the scope and and deadlines. In carrying out your interviews, (this description is not relevant, and could nature of GBV in emergencies derives have you been sympathetic to imply judgment of the person who has from qualitative assessments, studies, the trauma suffered by a GBV suffered from an attack). and service delivery statistics. survivor? These mostly suggest that many forms — LINA EJEILAT, Jordanian journlaist / editor 7 of GBV increase during emergencies. Have you made sure that a GBV specialist / professional care provider is present If you are hosting a discussion The need to “provide some figures” during the interview? or call-in programme on GBV, around GBV can lead to flawed have you included any guests estimates being widely circulated, or Have you made every effort to interview with advamced knowledge statistics being shared without context. on te subject, and challenged without causing re-trauma? Have you inaccurate comments made by made sure that your interviewee has been 5 contributors? Given the challenges around GBV Why is GBV underreported? made aware of appropriate counselling Where appropriate, have you data collection and interpretation, and support services? consulting a GBV specialist on how to made sure that you have quoted For example, if a caller claims that a woman all your “expert sources,” and “did not report an incident of GBV to the interpret the data and figures is likely • Survivors fear losing their homes Have you pointed them in the direction included a direct link to the police immediately and must therefore to be useful. For example, an increase in of appropriate support services in • Negative financial consequences relevant page of any organisation be making it up,” have you explained the reported GBV cases may be the result this region? Do you know what help is you have mentioned? reasons that might be behind this? This is of a new women’s centre opening in • Social stigma available? because there are many enduring myths a particular region, or a campaign • Fear of repercussions by perpetrators encouraging women to come forward For example, if you mention a particular about rape that often go unchallenged. rather than a rise in actual incidents of • Fear of losing child custody NGO working with GBV survivors, have A woman may not report a GBV incident gender-based violence. you linked to their material? If you work for fear of reprisals from her attacker, • Lack of information for a radio station, have you given details because she was disorientated following • Lack of confidence in the police of how people can access services? her trauma, or because of inadequate legal “Consulting specialist on • Lack of support services 3 systems. Lack of immediate reporting does how to interpret the data Have you avoided ‘single source’ not imply she has made up the incident. • Fear of deportation journalism? For example, if you have and figures is likely to be Have you protected your • High cost of legal action sources/interviewees? quoted a government official talking about useful.” GBV, have you also spoken to a local NGO • Violence against women not being legally about the issue? Have you made sure that your interactions There are many reasons why there is criminalised in numerous countries with the survivor have been entirely an under-reporting of GBV worldwide. discreet and that there will be no negative Many survivors think that they will not repercussions from said interactions? be believed, that they will be blamed, that they will be ostracised by their Have you acquired informed consent? family, or that they will be rejected by Remember that “informed consent” their husbands. Social stigma, fear of means that the person you speak to should repercussions by perpetrators, and of understand the implications of “going losing child custody, homes, or financial public’ with a story, and you have a duty of support are amongst the reasons given. care in these cases. Also, bear in mind that ‘jigsaw identification” can be a problem; a false name or ‘blurred screen’ may not be enough to prevent identification. 30 31 APPROACHING ORGANISATIONS Without a concerted effort by journalists to ensure that issues such as gender disrimination and violence are A journalist is much more likely to be successful in producing imapcting women and girls everywhere, real change an effective GBV story if they can show an understanding of the will be much harder. We need to encourage stronger ethics of working with GBV survivors. standards of reporting today.

A common complaint of people Journalists covering GBV will also — Nibras Al-Ma’amuri, Iraqi journalist working with GBV survivors is that need to think closely about who and Head of the Iraqi Women Journalists’ Forum journalists simply “phone up in order they interview. The UN regional UNFPA’S MANDATE to speak to a child bride” or make humanitarian coordinator may be an similar inappropriate requests. In fact, authoritative and trustworthy source; those field workers may choose not to however, they are likely to be too busy UNFPA aims to deliver a deal with such requests as they can be to deal with frequent press calls. A survivor-centred approach in all harmful for those involved. press officer for an international NGO aspects of our work, including ORGANISATIONS WORKING ON GBV might want to talk about the particular supporting the media in covering The below table lists some of the main organisations working on GBV response in various humanitarian contexts in the Arab initiative they are promoting, rather gender-based violence. Before “A common complaint of States region. Journalists are encouraged to contact these organisations when attempting to report on GBVin these settings. people working with GBV than the particular issue that you want we respond to a request to meet to cover. survivors, we think about their survivors is that journalists best interest: can we guarantee simply ‘phone up in order to “Journalists can often the safety, confidentiality, Local Organisations International Organisations United Nations Agencies speak to a child bride.’” shorten their wait times and dignity of survivors, their families, and communities? At ABAAD Lebanon and expedite the process Care International United Nations Population “Approaching the story through the times, these requests cannot be www.abaadmena.org www.care-international.org Fund (UNFPA) proper channels might take more of securing interviews accommodated. Usually, UNFPA www.unfpa.org time, but it is by far the most efficient with professionals by will provide information and Arab Women Organization and professional route to take as a investing time and effort expertise and, where possible, (AWO) International Rescue United Nations High facilitate visits to project sites journalist,” explains Luay Shabaneh, www.awo.org.jo Committee (IRC) Commissioner for Refugees in the initial research to ensure that important stories UNFPA Regional Director, Arab States. phase.” www.rescue.org (UNHCR) “For UNFPA, safeguarding the lives about GBV can be told from www.unhcr.org different angles. Institute for Family Health / and safety of survivors is our priority, Noor Al Hussein Foundation International Medical Corps and while we are committed to provide Officials at local and international United Nations Children’s NGOs may be able to talk more freely (IFH/NHF) https://internationalmedicalcorps.org/ timely responses to journalists, Fund (UNICEF) about gender-based violence: they www.nooralhusseinfoundation.org responses to stories involving GBV www.unicef.org can take longer as we decide the best are likely to have a useful overview of course of action.” the topic. Bear in mind that they may Jordanian Women Union United Nations Relief use language and terminology which (JWU) and Works Agency for is unfamiliar to your audience. You www.jwu.org.jo “For UNFPA, safeguarding should not be afraid of asking your Palestinian in the Near East the lives and safety of (UNRWA) interviewees to explain their language KAFA Lebanon survivors is our priority, if it will confuse your audience. www.unrwa.org www.kafa.org.lb and while we are UN Women committed to provide Syria Relief and Development www.unwomen.org timely responses to www.srd.ngo journalists, responses to stories involving GBV can We must consistently take longer as we decide the best course of action.” remember that even though

Journalists can often shorten their we are journalists, we are wait times and expedite the process of securing interviews with professionals people first, and need to by investing time and effort in the initial research phase. Journalists approach survivors as gently need to come to humanitarian organisations with an open mind, learn and respectfully as we from the specialists working at these organisations, and understand that appraoch other people in need. these organisations operate under a protection mandate that places the wellbeing of survivors first. — AMIN DABWAN, Yemeni journalist

32 33 GLOSSARY OF REFERENCES

Internally Displaced Person (IDP) Psychological / Emotional Abuse Survivor/Victim Child Sexual Abuse Domestic Violence Female Genital Mutilation IDPs are people who have been forced to Infliction of mental or emotional pain A person who has experienced gender- The term “child sexual abuse” generally Intimate Partner or Other Family Members: All procedures involving partial or total flee their homes as a result of or in order to or injury. Examples include threats of based violence. Whilst the terms ‘victim’ is used to refer to any sexual activity Domestic violence takes place between removal of the external female genitalia, avoid the effects of armed conflict, internal physical or sexual violence, intimidation, and ‘survivor’ are sometimes used between a child and closely related family intimate partners (spouses, boyfriend/ or any other injury to the female genital strife, systematic violations of human rights humiliation, forced isolation, stalking, interchangeably, ‘victim’ is a term often member (incest) or between a child and an girlfriend) as well as between family organs for non- medical reasons. or natural or manmade disasters, and who harassment, unwanted attention, remarks, used in the legal and medical sectors while adult or older child from outside the family. members (for example, mothers-in-law and seek protection elsewhere within their gestures, or written words of a sexual ‘survivor” is a term generally preferred in country of origin or residence and have not and/or menacing nature, destruction of the psychological and social support sectors It involves either explicit force or coercion daughters- in-law). Domestic violence may Forced Marriage or, in cases where consent cannot be given include sexual, physical, and psychological crossed internationally recognised state cherished things, etc. because it implies resilience. by the victim because of his or her young abuse. In any reference to domestic borders. The marriage of an individual against her or age, implied force. violence, it is important to be clear whether his will. Rape Trafficking in Persons the violence is perpetrated by an intimate Informed Consent Coercion partner, or another family member. Other Physically forced or otherwise coerced The recruitment, transportation, transfer, terms used to refer to domestic violence Gender Refers to approval or assent, particularly penetration—even if slight—of the vagina, harbouring or receipt of persons, by means Forcing, or attempting to force, another perpetrated by an intimate partner include and specifically after thoughtful anus or mouth with a penis or other body of the threat or use of force or other forms Refers to the social differences between person to engage in behaviours against ‘spousal abuse’ and ‘wife battering.’ consideration. Informed consent occurs part. It also includes penetration of the of coercion, of abduction, of fraud, of males and females that are learned, and her will by using threats, verbal insistence, when someone fully understands the vagina or anus with an object. Rape includes deception, of the abuse of power or of a though deeply rooted in every culture, manipulation, deception, cultural consequences of a decision, and consents marital rape and anal rape/sodomy. The position of vulnerability or of the giving or are changeable over time, and have wide expectations, or economic power. Denial of Resources opportunities or freely and without any force. attempt to do so is known as attempted receiving of payments or benefits to achieve variations both within and between services rape. Rape of a person by two or more the consent of a person having control cultures. ‘Gender’ determines the roles, Denial of rightful access to economic perpetrators is known as gang rape. over another person, for the purpose of Confidentiality responsibilities, opportunities, privileges, Intimate Partner Violence resources/assets or livelihoods exploitation. Exploitation includes that of expectations, and limitations for males and opportunities, education, health or other Intimate partner violence takes place Refugee the prostitution of others or other forms The right of every survivor to have their for females in any culture. of sexual exploitation, forced labour or identity kept private and unidentifiable. social services. Examples include a widow between intimate partners (spouses, A refugee is a person who is outside his or services, slavery or practices similar to There is an implicit understanding and prevented from receiving an inheritance, boyfriend/ girlfriend) as well as between Gender-Based Violence her country of origin or habitual residence, slavery, servitude, or the removal of organs.” obligation on those providing services that earnings forcibly taken by an intimate former intimate partners (for example, ex- and has a well-founded fear of persecution any information disclosed by a survivor will partner or family member, a woman husband or boyfriend). Intimate partner An umbrella term for any harmful act because of his/her race, religion, nationality, not be shared with others, unless the person prevented from using contraceptives, violence may include sexual, physical, a girl prevented from attending school, that is perpetrated against a person’s will membership in a particular social group or concerned gives explicit and informed and psychological abuse. It is sometimes Adapted from the Guidelines for Integrating Gender-Based and that is based on socially ascribed (i.e. political opinion; and is unable or unwilling consent to do so. Confidentiality involves etc. “Economic abuse” is included in this referred to as IPV. Violence Interventions in Humanitarian Action, Inter-Agency gender) differences between males and to avail himself/ herself of the protection of Standing Committee (IASC), 2012. not only how information is collected, but category. Some acts of confinement may females. The term ‘gender-based violence’ that country, or to return there, for fear of also how it is stored and shared. also fall under this category. is primarily used to underscore the fact Non-Governmental Organisation persecution. that structural, gender-based power (NGO) Conflict-related sexual violence Child Marriage differentials between males and females Sexual Harassment An organised entity that is functionally Child marriage is defined as the marriage of around the world place females at risk for “Conflict-related sexual violence” refers to independent of, and does not represent a a boy or a girl before the age of 18 years. It multiple forms of violence. Unwelcome sexual advances, requests for incidents or (for SCR 1960 listing purposes) government or State. It is normally applied is sometimes referred to as early marriage. sexual favours, and other verbal or physical patterns of sexual violence, that is rape, to organisations devoted to humanitarian The preferred UNICEF style is to refer to As agreed in the Declaration on the conduct of a sexual nature. sexual slavery, forced prostitution, forced and human rights causes, a number of which ‘child’ instead of ‘early’ marriage, since the Elimination of Violence against Women pregnancy, enforced sterilization, or any have official consultative status at the word ‘early’ does not immediately convey (1993), this includes acts that inflict other form of sexual violence of comparable United Nations. Sexual Exploitation the fact that this practice affects children physical, mental or sexual harm or gravity, against women, men, girls or suffering, threats of such acts, coercion below a specified age. UNICEF, http://uni. The term ‘sexual exploitation’ means any boys. Such incidents or patterns occur in and other deprivations of liberty, whether Perpetrator cf/1lVmxcD actual or attempted abuse of a position of conflict or post-conflict settings or other occurring in public or in private life. The vulnerability, differential power or trust situations of concern (e.g. political strife). term is also used by some actors to describe Person, group, or institution that directly for sexual purposes, including, but not They also have a direct or indirect nexus Emergency some forms of sexual violence against inflicts or otherwise supports violence or limited to, profiting monetarily, socially or with the conflict or political strife itself, i.e. males and /or targeted violence against other abuse inflicted on another against politically from the sexual exploitation of a temporal, geographical and/or causal link. Generally used to refer to situations of LGBTI populations, in these cases when her/ his will. Perpetrators are in a position another. armed conflict or natural disaster, often referencing violence related to gender- of real or perceived power, decision-making Coordinating Agencies involving the displacement of populations, inequitable norms of masculinity and/or and/or authority, and can thus exert control sometimes as refugees, other times as norms of gender identity. over their victims. Sexual Violence The organisations (usually two working in internally displaced people (IDPs). For the purposes of these guidelines, humanitarian Sexual violence is “any sexual act, attempt a co-chairing arrangement) that take the Host Community Persons with Disabilities lead in chairing GBV working groups and “emergencies” include the period of to obtain a sexual act, unwanted sexual instability, which often leads up to an acute comments or advances, or acts to traffic a ensuring that the minimum prevention and Persons with Disabilities include those crisis and ends at some point after ‘return’ Host community is an area in which many person’s sexuality, using coercion, threats response interventions are put in place. who have long-term physical, mental, or ‘resettlement.’ Emergencies are often refugees or internally displaced persons of harm or physical force, by any person Coordinating agencies are selected by the intellectual, or sensory impairments, which cyclical, with periods of stability followed (IDPs) reside during displacement, whether regardless or relationship to the victim, GBV working group and endorsed by the in interaction with various barriers, may by recurrent violence and/or instability. In in nearby camps, private accommodation, in any setting, including but not limited leading United Nations entity. hinder their full and effective participation some emergencies, populations flee, find or integrated into households. to home and work.” Sexual violence takes in society on an equal basis with others. refuge that later becomes unsafe, and are many forms, including rape, sexual slavery thus forced to flee again to another location. and/or trafficking, forced pregnancy, sexual This cycle can repeat itself multiple times harassment, sexual exploitation and/or throughout an emergency. abuse, and forced abortion. 34 35 When I speak to journalists, many times it feels as though they don’t understand what we go through as women in this camp. We pour our hearts out, but we rarely see our issues being discussed.

— AMAL, a Syrian refugee from Qamishli

REPORTING ON GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN HUMANITARIAN SETTINGS

A JOURNALIST’S HANDBOOK SECOND EDITION