JOURNALISTS' SECURITY IN WAR ZONES LESSONS FROM SYRIA

Journalists’ Security in War Zones: Lessons from Syriaexperienced while reporting in Syria, Borrilaments the fact that:“[E]ditors back in Italy only ask us for the blood,the bang-bang. I write about the Islamists and theirnetwork of social services, the roots of their power –a piece that is definitely more complex to build thana frontline piece. I strive to explain, not just to move,to touch, and I am answered with: ‘What’s this?Six thousand words and nobody died?’”Such an editorial approach can of course givea false impression of the realities on the groundand, hence, contribute towards rising levels offear and tension. It can also affect perceptionsand policy decisions. Moreover, it has repercussionsfor other journalists and was cited as one ofthe reasons why Syrians appear to be increasinglydistrusting of journalists than they have been inthe past.With reporting, as with daily dealings withindividuals on the ground, journalists areambassadors of their profession. Malpractice byone individual – whether willingly or throughignorance – can taint the reputation of alljournalists, making newsgathering more difficultthe longer the conflict lasts.Key recommendations to journalists:• Do not loiter around checkpoints.• Do not spend multiple nights in the same location.• Respect blackout decisions in cases of kidnapping if blackout is requested by the families of abducted journalists.• Do not reveal your travel plans on online forums, including on supposedly secret online groups.• Plan your trip meticulously with trusted contacts.• Agree on a communication plan with your editor and/or a trusted third party.• Encrypt your files, communication channels and devices.• Do not make multiple calls from the same location.• Respect local cultural sensitivities.16