There are numerous elections set to take place in Africa in 2016. The media will play a critical role in this democratic process before, during and after the polls close.  Election reporting in Africa is challenging. Journalists face a host of obstacles, ranging from restrictions on press freedom to difficulties reporting from locations where there is limited polling or voting outcome data.

The virtual workshop will introduce journalists in the region to best practices in election reporting as well as the opportunity to interact with international journalists experienced in election coverage in Africa and beyond.

Workshop speakers will introduce and reinforce professional standards in the many aspects of reporting on elections and address the importance an impartial media and its relationship with both the government and the general public during the electoral process.  The workshop will address:

Election processes
Covering campaigns (i.e., analyzing content of candidates’ electoral programs/speeches, polling information, candidates’ debate coverage)
Journalists’ rights to information during an election
The difference between journalists and election observers
How to prepare a coverage plan
Personal safety during election coverage
Post-election reporting

The speakers are experienced journalists who are familiar with the challenges of reporting on elections on the continent (bios below).

Workshop Dates

English workshop:  Tuesday, February 16 from 14:30- 16:00 GMT

Introduction: Eric Chinje, CEO, African Media Initiative
Moderator: Jerelyn Eddings, Senior Program Director ICFJ, Knight International Journalism Fellowships

Speaker: Judy Yablonky, Media Consultant and Journalism Trainer

French workshop: Wednesday, February 17 from 15:00- 16:30 GMT
Introduction: Eric Chinje, CEO, African Media Initiative

Moderator: Eduardo Cue, International Journalist and Media Consultant

Speaker: Daniel Glick, co-founder of The Story Group, an independent, multimedia journalism company.

 Who should participate in the Workshops

Reporters, editors, producers, bloggers and anyone reporting or writing about elections in their country. 

RSVP

RSVP to afmediahub@state.gov and indicate the requested date/language.  We will then send you the online link for the workshop.  Please submit RSVPs at least 24 hours prior to the start of program.