JOURNALISM is considered one of the most dangerous professions in the world, so why, then, would anyone want to be in it, especially nowadays? Many journalists are harassed, threatened, beaten and even killed for reporting the truth.
Most journalists have a love of the truth. They believe that by researching, verifying and reporting the truth about current events or matters of great importance, this would enlighten, inspire and motivate their audience — and even the government — to make positive and informed decisions to help others.
Journalists hope and believe that their work may bring about positive change in the lives of their families and society at large, and influence the government to do good and oppose wrongdoing.
Their commitment is based on the belief that people in a democracy have a fundamental right to know the truth, especially when it comes to public issues and elections. They should know what is right, good, true and beneficial, and what is not. They should be informed if a candidate is corrupt or a potential tyrant, or a person of honesty and integrity.
People also have a right to know how best to protect their families and the environment. They must be informed about hazardous situations, like water or food pollution, and about dangers to health. Informing the public is a commitment to public service — to help the community — and that is what true journalists do.
Journalists have an obligation to unearth the truth and expose corruption, abuses of power, and injustices and present these to those in authority, many of whom prefer to keep these hidden. This is called “speaking truth to power,” and it can be very dangerous. The goal of true journalists is not to shame or embarrass any person or group, but to work for positive transformation in society and inspire collective action for social justice and equality. Exposing corruption is one important way to protect the public from poverty, exploitation and other social evils.
Dedicated journalists reveal human tragedies and expose crimes against humanity to stop such evils, as well as hold perpetrators to account and save and protect victims. This kind of truth-telling is an ethical responsibility. It makes professional journalists essential to the world, so that truth can be known and acted upon. Many journalists have suffered because of their dedication to their profession.
The freedom to speak, write, or record events that affect the public must be treated with great respect, understanding and compassion. This is especially true when interviewing victims and reporting tragedies.
The reporters have to maintain their integrity and independence and never receive gifts or rewards so as to be faithful to their commitment to report without “fear or favor.” This is an exercise in accountability, and they need to be transparent, open and skilled in making ethical choices. If they do make an honest mistake, they must admit and correct it without fail.
Journalists lead dangerous lives, and many of them have sacrificed themselves in reporting the truth. Few countries are safe for journalists where there is conflict. (To be continued)/PN
