Be circumspect when reporting on gender violence — Psychology Council to journalists

Ghana Psychology Council (GPC) has advised media practitioners to be circumspect in their reportage with issues regarding gender violence.

The Registrar of GPC), Dr. Diana Baah Odoom made the assertion during a three-day workshop dubbed ‘’Investigating and Reporting Gender-Based Violence’’ organized by Ufrministi Anyidado for Vulnerable Women and Children, a Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) aimed at fighting the cause of women and children abuse.

Dr. Odoom who believes the country has gone far with regards to Gender-based violence says they are creating awareness through the media.

"As journalists, you have to be very careful and be sensitive, when reporting about such cases. Try and put yourself in the shoes of the victim, you will feel how it is. So I think the media should advocate the gender-based violence law and ensure it is being implemented well. If it is about money, they should ensure that the police, WAJU, and others have enough money to pursue or to help people who have issues" she said.

In furtherance, Dr Diana entreated the government to provide shelters in all 16 regions of Ghana, as she believes most people lives are at risk having found it difficult to even get a place to sleep but only for them to find themselves in danger.

She, therefore, advised the general public to be sensitive to gender issues because gender is socially constructed where the society describes what is acceptable or not acceptable.

The Executive Director of Ufeministi Anyidado for Vulnerable Women and Children, Miss Marina Carmen Kelly said that the idea to organize a capacity building and training for journalists came to reality when she heard a poor reportage by radio presenter on a rape victim.

She noted that they want to enhance media practitioners on their report and skills since according to her, gender-based violence needs radical attention and people to be sensitized because anybody can be a victim.

Mr Alex Nartey, a consultant with the Judicial Service also said, he is interested in issues that affect women and children which motivated him yo be part of the gender-based violence program on how to report issues relating to them.

He, therefore, urged the media to show interest and be committed to fighting against gender-based violence so that Ghana will get rid of the canker.