Social Services; IOM, Dominica Provide Training for Journalists and Communications Specialists to Encourage Proactive and Responsible Reporting of Child Abuse and Domestic Violence

The Ministry of Health, Wellness, and Social Services, with support from the International Organisation for Migration (IOM), Dominica, is proud to announce

the successful completion of a specialized training program designed to equip journalists and communications specialists with the necessary skills and knowledge to report sensitively and accurately on issues related to child abuse and domestic violence.

This training, held on August 23, 2024, brought together journalists and communications professionals from various media outlets, stakeholder agencies, and the Ministry to participate in the training, including discussions and hands-on exercises. The program was developed in response to the growing need for responsible media coverage that respects the dignity of survivors while raising awareness of these critical issues.

Key Highlights of the Training Program:

● Ethical Reporting: Participants learned best practices for ethically reporting on cases of domestic violence and child abuse, with a focus on protecting the privacy and safety of victims.

● Trauma-Informed Journalism: The training emphasized the importance of trauma-

informed approaches, helping journalists to understand the impact of trauma on

survivors and how to report in a way that minimizes harm.

● Cultural Sensitivity: Sessions were dedicated to exploring the cultural contexts of

domestic violence and child abuse, ensuring that reporting is inclusive and respectful of

diverse communities.

● Legal Considerations: Legal experts provided guidance on the legal implications of

reporting on these sensitive topics, including the importance of protecting victims of

abuse, safeguarding against defamation, and the need to comply with reporting

restrictions.

● Collaboration with Advocacy Groups: Participants were encouraged to work

alongside national domestic violence and child protection organisations to foster

connections to enhance future reporting and support for survivors.

While outlining the importance of the media’s role in raising awareness and shaping public perception, Sheena Harry, Communications Officer, Ministry of Health, Wellness and SocialServices said, “Media reporting on abuse and domestic violence carries a profound responsibility. It is a powerful tool for change that goes beyond revealing facts. It must balance exposing the truth with honoring the dignity of survivors, pushing for accountability, and encouraging empathy,” she said. “This training opens the door to foster a better partnership between the Ministry, through the Department of Social Services, and media professionals to achieve just that." - Sheena Harry - Communications Officer, Ministry of Health, Wellness and Social Services

Journalists from DBS Radio, Variety News, Emo News & Q95 FM attended the training, which IOM, Dominica hopes to extend to journalists throughout the Caribbean.

“The training has been invaluable in enhancing my understanding of approaching these

sensitive topics with the care and accuracy they deserve,” said Laila Langford from Dominica Broadcasting Corporation, DBS Radio. “I feel more confident in my ability to report in a way that informs the public and supports those affected. “This training also deepened my understanding of the critical role the media plays in addressing sensitive issues while maintaining a commitment to child protection,” she said. - Laila Langford - Journalist, Dominica Broadcasting Corporation, DBS Radio.

This training program represents IOM’s ongoing commitment to supporting the Government of Dominica by enhancing social protection services and highlights the role of the media in combating domestic violence and child abuse. We believe that through informed and ethical reporting, we raise the AWARENESS that encourages persons to take the ACTION needed to bring about CHANGE and contribute to a society that is more aware, empathetic, and proactive in addressing these critical issues.