On November 12-13, 2024, a training for journalists was held in Almaty on promoting gender equality, involved marriage and fatherhood, as well as covering gender-based violence in the media. The event was organized as part of a UNFPA initiative aimed at strengthening the capacity of journalists in Kazakhstan to effectively cover complex and sensitive topics related to gender-based violence in the media and promote the concept of involving men in the fight against violence and changing social norms.
The main focus of the training was to teach participants methods of correct and ethical coverage of cases of gender-based violence in the media. Journalists and editors, as well as university teachers and students, learned how to avoid stigmatizing victims of violence, how to work with sensitive topics, and what professional standards should be followed when preparing materials on this topic.
The faculty of the Department of International Communications and students of the Journalism educational program took an active part in the seminars, discussions and practical classes, which became an important part of the training program. They studied the key aspects of cases of violence, working with sources of information and the role of the media in shaping public consciousness. The training participants also got acquainted with the current situation in Kazakhstan in this area and learned about the MenEngage project, which helps to involve men in promoting gender equality and preventing violence.
Following the training, all participants received certificates and practical recommendations on the correct coverage of cases of violence, which allowed them to realize their social responsibility in solving these pressing problems. The importance of conducting communication campaigns aimed at raising awareness and preventing violence in society was also emphasized.