Guideline for combating gender-based violence through responsible reporting, 2024

The guideline provides a key instruction on what should be done when reporting on gender-based violence. According to the guidelines, journalists should understand the root causes in patriarchal norms and systemic inequalities. They must adopt a survivor-centered approach, using sensitive, non-stigmatizing language, respecting confidentiality and consent, and providing information on support services and resources for survivors.

On terminology and language, the guidelines state that media reporting on GBV should use accurate and sensitive terminology to raise awareness, challenge stereotypes, and empower those affected. Key terms include “survivor” instead of “victim”, “intimate partner violence“ to specify abuse in relationships, “consent” to focus on mutual respect in sexual interactions, and crisis support services to guide survivors to help. Journalists are encouraged to consult GBV experts to ensure reporting is respectful, accurate, and supportive.

Kosovo has implemented a range of institutional mechanisms to ensure gender equality and empower women. The key institutions are: The Agency for Gender Equality; The Gender Equality Committee in the Assembly of Kosovo; The Ombudsperson Institution; civil society organizations. 

The main problems in reporting GBV are that media coverage often focuses on certain types of violence or specific demographics, lacks intersectional analysis, provides inadequate support for survivors, sensationalizes perpetrators, and is influenced by political or social pressures.

Recommendations: 

• Cover all voices; 
• Adopt an intersectional approach;
• Empower survivors; 
• Focus on truth, not sensation; 
• Uphold journalistic integrity;
• Collaborate with NGOs and advocacy groups; 
• Provide trauma-informed training; 
• Highlight prevention and education; 
• Foster community engagement; 
• Amplify underrepresented voices; 
• Partner with mental health professionals.