The victims of sexual violence often become victims of the public interest after their case becomes public. Thus, when reporting cases of sexual violence, the journalists must take into account the ‘no-harm’ principle” and should not focus on the tragedy of the victim for obtaining the effect of sensation. The issues were discussed in a press club meeting entitled “Sexual violence: between prejudice and deontological norms” that was staged by the International Center “La Strada” and the Journalistic Investigations Center, IPN reports.
The Journalistic Investigations Center’s head Cornelia Cozonac said the press reports and articles about sexual violence and its victims should also reveal the shortcomings existing in the system. The journalists should address the prejudice and stereotypes as regards sexual abuse existing in society. By their activity, these can exert pressure on the authorities and the state institutions that do not do their job in such situations.
For her part, film director Viorica Mesina said that when reporting cases of sexual violence, the greatest interest is devoted to the victim. These cases are often reported as sensations and later the victims remain to deal alone with the prejudice in their community. Thus, the victim of sexual violence becomes victim for the second time, but this time of the public interest. That’s why the subjects about sexual abuse in such situations should not be tackled superficially and should be further addressed.
Natalia Bayram, lawyer of the International Center “La Strada”, considers the reporting of cases of sexual violence only from the perspective of concrete cases can sensitize the public opinion, but does not help the victims. When covering such cases, the mass media should also present the reaction of the system and the way in which the law enforcement agencies act as well as the court decision.
According to the head of “La Strada” Daniela Misail-Nichitin, given that many victims of sexual violence do not easily accept to speak about these problems, the victims are urged to go to nongovernmental organizations that provide psychological and legal assistance services. They can also use the trust line 080088008.
