China: High-level dialogue explores crisis reporting through Chinese and global media lenses
On 25 November 2024, the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) and the Tsinghua University School of Journalism and Communication (TSJC) co-hosted a high-level media dialogue titled “Beyond Borders: Crisis Reporting Through Chinese and Global Media Lenses” at Tsinghua University, Beijing, China.
The event brought together over 30 participants, including renowned media professionals, academics, humanitarian experts, and young journalists and students, for a thought-provoking discussion on the role of media in crisis reporting and global responses to conflict.
This event is part of a broader commitment to raise awareness of how media narratives, shaped by political and geopolitical influences, impact international responses to crises and humanitarian efforts. It aims to foster greater understanding of the role of media in upholding international humanitarian law, humanitarian principles and addressing the impact of harmful information on civilians.
Patricia Rey, ICRC’s Head of Global Communications, delivers opening remarks.
In her opening remarks, Patricia Rey, ICRC’s Head of Global Communications, emphasized the critical role of media in shaping public perception, influencing global responses to crises, and upholding humanitarian principles, particularly in an era marked by ongoing armed conflicts and widespread misinformation.
The panel discussion, moderated by Hang Min, Associate Dean of TSJC, featured Patricia Rey alongside other esteemed panelists from prominent Chinese and international media outlets. They examined how media from different geopolitical perspectives report on crises and the complex challenges and ethical dilemmas journalists face in conflict zones, such as maintaining neutrality in reporting, verifying information sourced from social media platforms, and implementing effective measures to safeguard journalists' safety. The panel also discussed the significant impact of media coverage on global responses to crises, including humanitarian aid and conflict resolution efforts.
Zhou Qing’an, Dean of the TSJC, delivers closing remarks.
Zhou Qing’an, Dean of the TSJC, said that the Dialogue provided valuable perspectives on crisis reporting and it serves as an educational platform for young journalists, Understanding the nuances of crisis reporting, the ethical dilemmas involved and the impact of media narratives on global policy and humanitarian efforts is essential for the next generation of reporters.
The event provided an opportunity to deepen the understanding of the complexities and challenges of crisis reporting, while highlighting the crucial role of humanitarian organizations like the ICRC. It also served to foster cross-cultural collaboration among Chinese and international media outlets, Tsinghua University, and the ICRC.
