Assessing safety of journalism practice in Ghana: Key stakeholders’ perspectives
Date
2023
Authors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Informa UK Limited, trading as Taylor & Francis Group
Abstract
Abstract: This study sought to use the self-reporting method of survey as well as
key informant interviews to investigate the depth and spread of the problem. A total
of 115 respondents took part in the survey. Additionally, eight interviews were
conducted with key stakeholders. The study found that the most common infraction
was verbal abuse. Colleagues, police, political fanatics, politicians, security operatives and government officials, were among the top perpetrators of safety violations
against journalists. A sizeable portion (albeit fewer) were dissatisfied with their
workplace safety provisions and minimal confidence in the concern of their
employers for their well-being. About half of respondents indicated their media
organisations did not make provisions for safety gear for covering potentially dangerous beats. Many of the respondents thought that the posture, attitude and actions of key state actors, law enforcement agencies as well as their own association (GJA) concerning their safety were unsatisfactory. The study recommends
that the government ensures the security and safety of journalists and media
organizations. Media organizations must ensure a safe and toxic-free work environment through codes of practice, policies, and enforcement; and journalists
become familiar with the various types of safety breaches and corrective measures
that can be taken.
Description
Research Article
Keywords
Ghana, Journalism, Safety, Safety of journalists, Safety violations, Media
Citation
Theodora Dame Adjin-Tettey & Sulemana Braimah (2023) Assessing safety of journalism practice in Ghana: Key stakeholders’ perspectives, Cogent Social Sciences, 9:1, 2225836, DOI: 10.1080/23311886.2023.2225836