Programs & Events
Conference Assesses Nigerien Media's "Strengths and Weaknesses"
From October 28-30, 2008 U.S. Embassy Niamey sponsored a three-day media conference on professionalism and ethics in journalism in partnership with the Nigerien Association of Independent Press Editors (ANEPI), the Journalists’ Human Rights Network (RJDH) and the Nigerien Association for the Protection of Journalism (ANPJ). Approximately 100 journalists from throughout the country participated in the workshop series entitled “Journalism Practices in Niger: Strengths and Weaknesses” held at the Hotel Sahel in the capital city, Niamey.
U.S. Ambassador Bernadette M. Allen addressed the assembly on the importance of a vibrant, free, and professional media in a democratic society, and Nigerien Ministry of Communication Secretary General Intakarbeit Almoudan was present to officially launch the event. The training modules addressed the particular issues and challenges facing Nigerien journalists today, with specific sessions focusing on topics of journalistic objectivity, credibility, code of conduct and treatment of sources. Discussions centered mainly on obstacles to the freedom of press in Niger; techniques for gathering information; differentiating news and opinion pieces; and local laws which affect journalists’ ability to report.
This conference is a continuation of U.S. Embassy Niamey’s ongoing efforts to work with Nigerien journalists, media executives, civil society and government officials to address issues of press freedom, journalistic ethics, and media professionalism.