Book 2 - Ebu

Guidelines on gender-ethical reporting
2. Disaster reporting
Natural disasters are no longer confined to a short news brief with statistics of
fatalities or economic loss. Today, the story creates international headlines in the
media and is documented aggressively—landmarks in recent disaster reporting
include the devastation left by the Indian Ocean tsunami (December 2004),
Hurricane Katrina in the United States (August 2005) and the triple tragedy that
occurred in East Japan from the massive earthquake, tsunami and nuclear accident
(March 2011). These disasters and their aftermath have become vital news coverage
that goes beyond statistics. With the rise of devastating disasters, media coverage has
increased, in stories that point to crucial political, economic and social indicators
of a country and its society. Indeed, stories by journalists who disseminate diverse
information on devastation, disaster risk reduction and mitigation play a vital role in
national recovery programs.
The disaster story is about recovery and risk reduction, two crucial themes that can
be tackled if the challenges are linked with national development goals. For the
journalist this objective is more effectively attained when the stories are recounted
through the voices of disaster survivors 1 , since they know firsthand the human
suffering, the devastation and the consequent endurance and courage in recovery.
Their stories not only convey the powerful reality on the ground but also the
determination of the people to move on. Media documentation of their experiences
is valuable for providing a context in which to understand the effects of disaster on
people’s lives. A story written with these goals in mind conveys the tragedy to the rest
of the world but also builds support and understanding.
Sample story analysis
Consider the following story.
Title:
Reporter:
“Subtle aid for women facing abuse in disaster-hit areas.”
Rob Gilhooly
Where published: Japan Times- Japan`s leading daily. http://www.japantimes.co.jp/text/
fl20111001a1.html
Date 1 January, 2011.
SENDAI — At a glance, it appears to be nothing more than a hand massage. In a corner
of a shelter for survivors of the March disasters in Onagawa, Miyagi Prefecture, members
of the NPO Miyagi-Jonet are trying to provide some respite for stressed-out female
survivors.
1. “Survivor” is used throughout this kit to convey the agency of those who are enduring or
have overcome difficult situations. Rather than being merely passive “victims” as they are
often portrayed, “survivor” draws attention to individuals, groups and particularly women
undergoing difficulties or different forms of oppression who actively take steps to change
their circumstances.
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