Emphasizing the critical importance of putting one’s safety first, the Pakistan Press Foundation (PPF) concluded a three-day “Holistic Safety Training for Journalists” with the key recommendation that journalists prioritize their safety. The workshop, which took place in Karachi from August 3 to 5, focused on equipping media professionals with the necessary skills to protect themselves from threats, attacks, and harassment during their professional duties.
The three-day training, led by safety expert Syed Tahir Mehmood and featuring a session by digital safety specialist Asif Iqbal, provided practical training in physical and digital safety.
During the sessions, participants were educated on responding effectively to various emergency scenarios, such as active shooter situations, mob violence, and natural disasters. The hands-on training included demonstrations of crucial first aid techniques, such as CPR, bleeding control, and managing injuries under extreme conditions. Emphasizing the importance of being prepared, Mehmood also guided journalists in conducting a risk assessment and using safety equipment, such as bulletproof vests and helmets.
In his digital safety session, Asif Iqbal highlighted the growing risks of cyber threats, such as phishing, malware, and social engineering attacks. He underscored the importance of securing digital identities and safeguarding sensitive information. Iqbal provided practical advice on using encryption tools, secure communication apps, and strategies to avoid digital surveillance, emphasizing that digital safety is now integral to overall safety for journalists.
The workshop also served as a platform for journalists to share their experiences covering dangerous situations. Participants recounted harrowing experiences of reporting in emergencies, facing mob violence, and dealing with organizational pressures that can compromise safety. These discussions not only highlighted the physical dangers journalists face but also brought attention to the psychological toll of covering traumatic events.
The event concluded with PPF’s General Secretary, Owais Aslam Ali, reiterating the foundation’s unwavering commitment to journalists’ safety. Ali stressed that the knowledge and skills imparted during the training are vital for journalists’ survival and well-being. The workshop ended with a call for continuous safety training sessions and the need to implement robust protective measures within media organizations to ensure journalists can carry out their duties without compromising safety.
