23 NEWS FOCUS Journalists at Risk
CONFLICT OF INTEREST Above, Sebastian Walker, the Middle East bureau chief for Vice News, talks to Iraq Special Forces
a much more collaborative relationship with our freelancers. In terms of the solo freelancer, it’s hard to write an article about this without entirely discouraging it. In places like Iraq or Syria – the hotspots where people really want to make a name – it’s not simple anymore.” Here, Nammour reiterates Parkinson’s warning that journalists are often deliberately targeted: “You become the target by going in and wearing that press badge.” He outlines the Vice News approach to this sort of work, via meetings with journalists and editors, which is essentially one of planning and defining limits. “That’s what allows the people on the ground to determine where the story stops and where the safety starts – if you’re on assignment, what you’re there for, what you’re not there for and when to get out of there.” The problem is that journalists are keen to gather stories and not be limited, particularly as there’s a reluctance to push back to editors. As well as a proper planning process, Nammour emphasises the importance of training, particularly the approach of the ACOS Alliance, an organisation developing safety standards among journalists. As its first principle, ACOS lists: “Journalists
IF ORGANISATIONS ARE GOING TO WORK WITH FREELANCERS, THEYMUST TAKE RESPONSIBILITY FOR THEIR SAFETY should have basic skills to care for
“I always end up giving out my personal number to the freelancers, because I think it’s so important for them to have someone to call. If there’s no one else, call someone. But my emphasis is on building that network, doing a communications check – have some sort of network supporting you from behind the scenes.”
themselves or injured colleagues.” This implies first-aid training that everyone involved should have. This sort of work will always require quick wits, planning and research, but Nammour finishes by mentioning a surprisingly personal approach.
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