By Media & Development Desk
PLAN International Ghana has called on journalists to uphold ethical, responsible, and gender-sensitive reporting, particularly when covering stories involving children, girls, and other vulnerable populations.
The call was made by Mr. Eric Ayaba, Head of Programme and Influencing at PLAN International Ghana, during the 2026 Media Training workshop held in Koforidua, Eastern Region, under the theme: “Journalism with Purpose: Reporting Responsibly on Children, Gender Equality, and Vulnerable Communities.”
Mr. Ayaba stressed that journalists must respect the rights, dignity, and emotional wellbeing of victims and sources, especially when they are unwilling or unable to share their experiences.
“If a victim chooses not to speak, we must respect that decision. They may be going through trauma, and as journalists, we must be sensitive, patient, and ethical in gathering information,” he said.
He explained that the training forms part of PLAN International Ghana’s three-year continuous engagement with media practitioners, aimed at equipping journalists with practical tools for accurate, ethical, and development-focused reporting.
According to him, reporting on children and vulnerable groups is both a development responsibility and a human rights obligation, emphasizing that journalists play a key role in safeguarding public interest without compromising safety.
The training encouraged journalists to prioritize dignity over sensational headlines, safety over viral content, and development over propaganda, while avoiding stereotyping and harmful narratives.
Participants were also urged to view children and young women as active agents of change, rather than passive victims, and to uphold principles of informed consent, continuous consent, and confidentiality.
Mr. Ayaba expressed optimism that the workshop would strengthen ethical journalism standards, adding that PLAN International Ghana remains committed to building a responsible media culture that protects and empowers vulnerable communities.
Source News Volta
