Journalists Trained on Media Laws and Code of Conduct in Juba

UNESCO, in partnership with the Union of Journalists of South Sudan (UJOSS), conducted a capacity training workshop for journalists in Juba from 18 and 19 August 2021. The workshop was aimed at increasing understanding and knowledge on the Media Laws and the Code of Conduct for practicing journalists.

Speaking at the opening, Mr. Julius Banda, UNESCO Country Representative urged journalists to acquaint themselves with the laws and regulations especially the Journalists Code of Conduct on the practice of journalism which fosters self-regulation, professionalism and a step towards building trust between the journalists and their audiences. He encouraged journalists to use the media to promote peace and achievement of Agenda 2030 Sustainable Development Goals and Agenda 2063 of the African Union.

For his part, Mr. Patrick Oyet Charles, Chairperson, Union of Journalists in South Sudan welcomed the workshop as an opportunity for addressing identified capacity gaps among Journalists in South Sudan. Mr. Oyet stated that the training would go beyond Juba and cover other parts of the country in the spirit of Leaving No One Behind.

Speaking at the workshop, Mr. Sapana Abuyi, Director General for Information and Media Compliance, at the Media Authority, urged journalists to improve the media landscape by avoiding unethical reporting and abide by the truth and report accurately. Mr. Sapana also encouraged journalists to pay attention to their own safety and work towards improving the quality of their work, both by word or image.

The workshop is in line with UNESCO efforts to support freedom of expression, strengthen capacities for journalists and media workers and promote of safety of journalists under UNESCO Multi-Donor Programme on freedom of expression and safety of journalists.