Gambiaj.com – (BANJUL, The Gambia) – A recent report by the Gambia Press Union (GPU) on sexual harassment in the media industry has revealed alarming statistics: one in four media workers has heard about alleged incidents of sexual harassment in their workplaces, and one in ten reported being personally harassed.

In response to these findings and to actively promote a media landscape free of sexual harassment and gender discrimination, the European Union and the International Institute for Democracy and Electoral Assistance (IDEA), in collaboration with the GPU, conducted a five-day training program for media managers and editors from May 13 to 17, 2024.

The sessions equipped participants with essential knowledge and tools to prevent sexual harassment, promote gender equality, and create an inclusive and safer working environment for women journalists.

Mr. Raphaël Brigandi, Deputy Head of the European Delegation, emphasized the importance of addressing sexual harassment in the workplace. “Sexual harassment is sadly too prevalent in the workplace across countries and business sectors. Putting an end to such unacceptable behaviours must be a concern for everyone regardless of their gender,” he stated. He also highlighted that sexual harassment and gender imbalance in the media undermine democratic values and hinder professional growth and personal well-being. Mr. Brigandi commended the GPU for implementing relevant policies and expressed the EU’s support for these initiatives.

Jainaba Faye, International IDEA’s Head of Country Office, challenged media managers and editors to intensify efforts to create a media environment that fosters respect and inclusivity. She urged the adoption and full implementation of the GPU’s Sexual Harassment Policy, stressing that journalists have a unique role in combating harassment and discrimination.

Muhammed S. Bah, President of the Gambia Press Union, expressed gratitude to International IDEA and the European Union for making the training a success. He reaffirmed the GPU’s commitment to upholding high standards to further promote a media landscape that is inclusive and free from all forms of sexual harassment.

Mr. Lamin Cham, Editor of the Standard Newspaper and one of the training participants, shared his satisfaction with the training’s conduct. He noted that the training had equipped him with the knowledge and expertise to prevent sexual harassment and gender discrimination in his media house. Mr. Cham highlighted the tangible outcomes of the sessions, which provided invaluable insights into identifying, addressing, and preventing sexual harassment. He emphasized his office’s commitment to adopting and implementing robust policies and procedures to combat sexual harassment and promote gender inclusion.

This training marks a significant step towards fostering a safer and more inclusive media environment in The Gambia, ensuring that all journalists can work free from harassment and discrimination.