A historic step towards promoting ethical journalism and human rights advocacy was taken with the launch of the Federation of Human Rights Journalists in Ghana.

The event, attended by distinguished guests, representatives from the Swiss Embassy, media professionals, and journalism students, highlighted the critical role of journalists in defending human rights and upholding democratic values.

Patron of the federation, Dr. Kodwo Jonas Anson Boateng, delivered a keynote address, expressing hope and pride in the formation of the organization. He emphasized that the federation marks a significant milestone in the collective effort to promote human rights through responsible journalism.

"In a world where misinformation and disinformation threaten the very foundation of democracy, it is crucial for journalists to not only report the news but also champion the values of justice, equality, and dignity for all," Dr. Boateng stated.

A key component of the launch was a three-day training program aimed at equipping journalists with the knowledge and tools to navigate the complexities of modern media, especially in the digital era. Dr. Boateng underscored the importance of understanding international human rights standards, domestic legal frameworks, and best practices in reporting sensitive issues such as gender-based violence, corruption, and discrimination.

"As journalists, we are often on the front line of defense against abuses of power and violations of human rights. However, this responsibility comes with legal, ethical, and personal challenges that require constant learning and adaptation," he noted.

He urged journalists to apply the lessons learned from the training in their daily work, ensuring that every story they tell contributes to building a just and equitable society. He also called on media professionals to use their platforms to amplify marginalized voices, expose injustices, and hold those in authority accountable.

"The road ahead will not be easy, but through unity and a commitment to ethical journalism, we can make a difference," Dr. Boateng concluded.

The launch of the Federation of Human Rights Journalists is expected to strengthen the media's role in human rights advocacy in Ghana, providing a united platform for journalists to sharpen their skills and reinforce their dedication to justice and accountability.

Adding to the discourse, Mr. George Appiah, Political Adviser for the Swiss Embassy, lauded the formation of the federation and reaffirmed the Swiss government's commitment to supporting press freedom and human rights in Ghana.

"This initiative is timely and necessary, as the role of journalists in protecting and promoting human rights cannot be overstated. A free and responsible press is the backbone of democracy, and we must work together to ensure that journalists have the training, resources, and protection they need to carry out their work effectively," Mr. Appiah stated.

Also speaking at the event, Valentina Ofori Afriyie, Deputy News Editor at Class Media Group, called on journalists to be sensitive in their reporting and prioritize human rights considerations before publishing stories. She stressed that the media wields significant influence in shaping public opinion and must exercise this power responsibly.

"The media must recognize that every story they publish has real-life consequences. Sensationalism and irresponsible reporting can harm individuals, deepen societal divisions, and even incite violence. As journalists, we must ensure that our work upholds the dignity and rights of the people we report on," she stated.

Ms. Afriyie urged journalists to verify facts thoroughly, avoid bias, and be mindful of the ethical implications of their stories, particularly when covering sensitive topics such as human rights abuses, gender-based violence, and discrimination. She further encouraged media houses to develop editorial policies that promote human rights-centered journalism and to provide regular training for their reporters.