SEESAC Delivers Second Training on Ethical Reporting on Gender-based Violence with Firearms, in Bosnia and Herzegovina

The second in a series of Trainings on the Ethics of Informing the Public about Gender-based Violence with the Focus on Incidents with Firearms Misuse was held for prosecutors, journalists, and representatives of the MOI on July 1-2, 2024, in Bjelašnica.

The training is a part of SEESAC’s ongoing efforts to promote cooperation and support relevant institutions in building capacities for raising awareness on risks associated with small arms and light weapons (SALW).

Victor Munteanu, the Deputy Resident Representative of UNDP Bosnia and Herzegovina opened the training, and highlighted the critical role of collaboration between the media representatives, and the representatives of prosecutor’s offices and MOI/police services in informing and educating the public on this societal problem.

On the first day, participants explored the dynamics of gender-based violence (GBV) and the detrimental impact of unethical reporting on victims and their families. They also examined the risk factors associated with the presence of SALW in GBV situations, the significance of tracking SALW misuse in such cases, and relevant trends in Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Western Balkans.

The second day focused on the results of a recent Analysis of Media Reporting on Firearm Misuse in Male Gender-based Violence Against Women in the Western Balkans, with a particular focus on  Bosnia and Herzegovina. Participants also reviewed the newly developed Guidelines for the MOIs/Police Services on Improving Communication with the Media Regarding GBV Incidents Involving SALW.

Practical exercises were conducted to help participants better understand the context and constraints faced by their colleagues in their respective roles.

 Throughout the training, trainees examined the communication practices between media representatives, public prosecutor's offices, and MoI/police services concerning firearm misuse in GBV cases. They shared examples of best practices and identified areas in need of improvement.

This training was 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.