World Press Freedom Day
May 15, 2009 - The public diplomacy arm of the Embassy gathered thirteen journalists from different types of media to discuss their roles and responsibilities in providing the news to the public. The journalists were treated to discussions with two noted journalists via a telephone conference: George Kazolias and Kelly Daniel. George Kazolias is an experienced professional journalist residing in Paris and working with the Africa Regional Services. He had resided in the other Congo, Kinshasa, where he worked for a United National radio service. Kelly Daniel, who had served in Brazzaville, was a former editor for the Austin American Statesman in Austin, Texas. Both journalists were excellent in their approaches to the absolute need for ethical standards in journalism. Congo-Brazzaville is headed toward presidential elections, and this was certainly a timely event. Media is already playing a key role in educating the Congolese citizens about the importance of voting.
George Kazolias concentrated on the importance of an unbiased media during a pre-electoral period and journalistic methods to secure fairness and transparency in the elections' outcome. His points led to a lively discussion. Journalists asked, "Should a truth be revealed when it will result in conflict and jeopardize the electoral process?" and "Why is the approach of elections always viewed as a source of unrest and a threat to peace in the African continent?" Mr. Kazolias reminded the journalists that good journalism relies on accuracy and objectivity, and that emerging African democracies need education and information.
Kelly Daniel focused her remarks on professional ethics in journalism and stressed on the credibility of the information. Ms. Daniel is well informed of the current situation in Congo Brazzaville and she told the journalists that despite all hardships and frustration Congolese journalists face, they must adhere to a journalists' code of conduct. She sympathized with female journalists when they raised the sexual harassment issue they encounter which violates ethics, but still asked them to stick to ethics and invited them to publicly denounce those degrading practices.
This professional exchange did not stop at the end of the conference. The journalists have already formed a group and met to discuss ethical standards, promote professionalism in journalism and, of course, to learn English. They are on their way to providing education and accurate information.
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