In the age of fast-paced media, journalists and media houses have an undeniable responsibility to handle sensitive stories with care, particularly those involving minors who have suffered sexual assault.
When faces and names of young female victims are splashed across headlines, the consequences can be devastating, not only for the child but also for their families and relatives. The New Vision newspaper, in their Community News edition of 20th November 2024 carried a story about a gang-raped girl in Masindi whose body was dumped in the river – complete with picture of the deceased girl with names in mention.
In my opinion, this is both unethical and deeply concerning; it blatantly violates the dignity and privacy of the deceased and her grieving family. Reporting on sensitive issues like rape requires utmost care to protect victims’ identities, especially when the individual is a minor or has faced such a harrowing ordeal. This got me thinking, how can we, as media practitioners and consumers, ensure ethical coverage that protects the dignity and well-being of these vulnerable individuals?
First off, survivors of sexual assault already face immense emotional, physical, and social challenges. Public exposure exacerbates their trauma, opening them up to stigma, discrimination, and even victim-blaming. Uganda’s Children Act and Penal Code explicitly safeguards minors by prohibiting the identification of individuals under 18years of age. Journalists and editors must internalize these mandates, recognizing that anonymity is not just a legal requirement— it is a moral obligation.
Furthermore, society must cultivate an environment where survivors feel supported and protected, and the media plays an integral role in setting this tone. Breaking this trust not only harms the individual but also undermines collective efforts to address sexual violence.
Organizations like UNICEF and Press Councils globally emphasize the ethical representation of children in media. The African Media Initiative (AMI) and the International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) outline clear protocols for reporting on minors. Beyond ethical considerations, adherence to the law is non-negotiable. Uganda’s Children Act, in sections 19 (1), 22, 89 and 105 mandates confidentiality in juvenile cases.
Media houses, you’ve got the mic; use it responsibly. Respect the dead and protect the living. Shine a light on the issue, not the victim. To the public- let’s demand better. In the end, ethical journalism is about humanity.
The writer, Roger Mugisha Shillingi is the Corporate Affairs Lead Letshego Uganda
