Banda Aceh, Indonesia – On Saturday, March 18, 2023, Lembaga Kajian Sosial Politik Aceh (Lakaspia) successfully conducted a significant workshop titled “Workshop on Peace Journalism and Journalist Safety in the Context of Civil Protection.” Held at the Kantor Aliansi Jurnalis Independen (AJI) Banda Aceh, the event saw the participation of around twenty journalists from diverse media backgrounds, including print, online, and television.
The workshop featured key speaker Nashrun Marzuki, Special Staff of the Aceh Information Commission (KIA), and was facilitated by Adi Warsidi, Regional Coordinator for Sumatra of AJI. Both speakers highlighted the essential roles journalists play in fostering peace and their need for protection, especially in conflict-sensitive regions like Aceh.
Director of Lakaspia, Halik, opened the session by addressing the recent increase in violence not only against journalists but across various societal strata. Adi Warsidi further emphasized that despite past improvements in press freedom in Aceh, challenges like attacks on journalists’ homes, assaults, and destruction of personal property such as smartphones have marred the journalistic landscape.
Nashrun Marzuki shared insights into the nuances of reporting on legal issues with significant social impacts, as opposed to mere police reports. He elucidated the types of violence encountered in journalism, which include direct, cultural, and structural forms. Nashrun underscored the importance of peace journalism training and conflict resolution as proactive measures to equip journalists in conflict-affected areas.
The workshop also featured an interactive discussion session, where participants engaged actively with questions about field safety and shared personal experiences from covering the Aceh conflict. This exchange provided invaluable insights into the practical aspects of journalism in high-stress environments.
Lakaspia remains committed to advancing journalism that upholds peace and safety for all, particularly in regions prone to conflict. This workshop is part of Lakaspia’s ongoing efforts to support and educate journalists, ensuring their crucial role in society is performed safely and responsibly.