3rd Training on Ethical Reporting on Gender-Based Violence for Representatives of Prosecutors’ Offices, Ministry of Interior, and the Media Takes Place in Skopje

On 15-16 July 2024 in Skopje, journalists, representatives of the prosecutors’ offices, and the Ministry of Interior of North Macedonia underwent a Training on the Ethics of Informing the Public on Gender-based Violence with a Focus on Incidents with Firearms Misuse. This marks the third training in a series, following successful sessions in Serbia and Bosnia and Herzegovina  earlier in 2024, bringing together participants from three key institutions that directly contribute to the public discourse and shape public perception of gender-based violence (GBV) with firearms.

The training offered insights into the critical intersection of GBV and the misuse of small arms and light weapons (SALW), a topic of growing concern in the Western Balkans and North Macedonia. It also highlighted the pivotal role that ethical reporting plays in shaping public perception and discourse around GBV.

Mr. Armen Grigoryan, the UNDP Resident Representative in North Macedonia, offered insights that anchored the training in relevant research and broader programmatic background. Mr. Grigoryan’s reflections highlighted the significance of addressing domestic violence comprehensively, aligning with ongoing SALW control activities in North Macedonia.

Throughout the sessions, participants engaged in discussions and practical exercises designed to enhance their understanding of the complexities involved in reporting GBV incidents involving firearms – and the severe consequences of unethical practices. They examined recent findings from the Analysis of Media Reporting on Firearm Misuse in Male Gender-based Violence Against Women in the Western Balkans, with a particular focus on North Macedonia. This analysis, coupled with the newly developed Guidelines for the MOIs/Police Services on Improving Communication with the Media Regarding GBV Incidents Involving SALW, provided a robust framework for the participants to enhance their professional practices.

Furthermore, the training explored the interaction between media newsrooms, public prosecutors’ offices, and the Ministry of Interior, highlighting the need for coordinated and sensitive communication strategies.

These trainings were organized within the scope of SEESAC’s efforts to raise awareness and increase the operational capacities of relevant beneficiaries through the Regional IPA project in Support of Enhancing the Fight Against the Illegal Possession, Misuse, and Trafficking of Small Arms and Light Weapons (SALW) in the Western Balkans funded by European Commission.