Covid-19

In-Focus
Written By

A Resource Page for Journalists

Fabeha Monir

The spread of COVID-19, a new front line for journalists.

The coronavirus has infected around 692,63 million people and caused more than 6,90 million deaths. The global scale of this pandemic has forced countries around the world to take serious measures, including closing borders and imposing quarantines. This has increased multidimensional challenges to the journalists who are reporting on this story, from all across the world. In addition to tackling the very mechanical side of reporting stories connected to COVID-19; from impact on human life, to overwhelming medical systems around the world to how this pandemic is challenging countries to offer better governance, journalists are yet again on the front line. Whether they report in quarantine, from behind a desk or from the street covering life at large, the risk of safety for these reporters demands a vigorously thoughtful approach. 

This is a front line, like no other. The Coalition For Women In Journalism stands in solidarity and support with all journalists covering this massive story today. As a support organization for women, we have developed resources and tool kits that any journalist can consult. 

We will continue to add to these tools over the next few weeks as the story develops. 

We are also watching the space for any indications of difficulties women journalists in particular have or will encounter.

 
 

Index

 

Map

Find a Women Journalist Reporting on Covid-19

Women journalists are reporting on COVID-19 from across the world. These journalists are reporting on the story either from quarantine or on the front lines. Editors, newsrooms looking to hire freelancers in any region can find them on the map. Journalists can follow these women on the ground and follow their work.

 

Number of women journalists: 322 | Updated: August 7, 2023

If you are a woman journalist reporting on COVID-19 from the front lines get in touch to be added into the map.

 
 

Covid-19 Press Freedom & Safety Watch

Several countries are instituting a clampdown on news relating to Covid-19. We are keeping an eye on the situation and documenting any threats that women journalists may be facing because of their coronavirus-related reportage.

 
Featured
India: CFWIJ is Appalled at The Harassment Incident Faced by Trishna Das
India: CFWIJ is Appalled at The Harassment Incident Faced by Trishna Das

Trishna Das, a freelance journalist was reportedly harassed by a group of people who appeared to be transgenders. The incident took place in a bus when she was travelling to Goalpara, in Assam on September 13. Trishna shared the disturbing details in a Facebook post. She was verbally abused and threatened with death. When she tried to record the scene, one person spat on her face which was extremely offensive and concerning given the COVID-19 pandemic situation. The CFWIJ demands police take action against the perpetrators and ensure Trisha remains safe.

Italy: CFWIJ Condemns The Violence Faced By Antonella Alba While Covering Covid Related Protests
Italy: CFWIJ Condemns The Violence Faced By Antonella Alba While Covering Covid Related Protests

Journalist Antonella Alba was verbally and physically attacked at a demonstration rally against the COVID safety measures announced by the Italian government. The incident took place on August 28, while Antonella was covering the protest for Rai News 24. The journalist was abused by participants of the rally and incurred physical injuries in a scuffle that took place at the location. The security personnel on the ground had to eventually intervene in order to ensure her safety.

United States: CFWIJ Concerned About The Physical Assaults On Women And Queer Journalists During Right Wing Protests
United States: CFWIJ Concerned About The Physical Assaults On Women And Queer Journalists During Right Wing Protests

Several protests have erupted in Los Angeles by right wing political organizers ranging from issues like trans rights to covid vaccination programs. However, one thing has remained common: members of the press are unsafe during their coverage. Particularly journalists belonging from socially vulnerable groups find themselves being repeatedly and violently targeted by participants in these rallies.

 

Covid-19 Safety Guidelines

If you are covering COVID-19, there are a few things that you should keep in mind to make sure that you stay healthy and safe. We’ve developed a list of things to keep in mind for reporters who are covering the pandemic. Take a look at some of them below, or click the complete guideline button for more.

 

Watch

 

Women Journalists On The Front Lines

We spoke to several woman journalists about their methods of reporting safely. Read more to find out how women journalists are reporting on the ground, from different locations; learn more about what they are witnessing and how they are taking care of their health and what tips they can offer you. Click on each profile for a full length read.

 

Resources

  • The CDC’s Guide On Covid-19 Offers Verified Information. Link>

  • Who Has A Map You Can Use To Monitor The Spread Of The Disease. Link>

  • This Incredible Resource From NYT Maps The Spread Of The Coronavirus. Link>

  • Jodi Kantor’s Illuminating Piece On Life In The Times Of Covid-19. Link>

  • Ona Has A Helpful Guideline On How You Can Work From Home More Effectively. Link>

  • EJN Has An Incredible Guideline On Media Ethics, Safety And Mental Health. Link>

  • GIJN Has Comprehensive Tips On How To Cover The Pandemic. Link>

  • The Everyday Project Has An Important Guide For Visual Journalists. Link>

  • Lensrentals Has An Illuminating Guide On How You Can Disinfect Your Gear And Equipment. Link>

  • Media Freedom Threats And Covid-19 With Un Special Rapporteur David Kaye And Cpj’s Courtney Radsch. Link>

  • Trip.com Has A Comprehensive Database On Travel Restrictions. Link>

  • Have A Covid-19 Question That Anyone Haven’t Tackled Yet? Link>

  • Safety.com Published A Resource To Help Seniors And Caregivers Here. Link>

  • Arash Law Injury Lawyers Published A Resource About What To Do If An Elderly Family Member Lives In A Nursing Home With A Covid-19 Outbreak. Link>

  • To Provide Journalists With The Help They Need, Thomson Foundation Teamed Up With A Series Of Free Online Courses. Link>

 
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