The National Audiovisual Council (CNA) of Romania hosted, on 29 February 2024, at the National Theatre "I. L. Caragiale" in Bucharest, the Gala for Excellence in Journalism, an event recognising the dedication and professionalism of Romanian journalists who have been involved in missions in conflict zones over the past two years.
The Gala, where over 50 journalists were awarded, is part of the Council of Europe's Campaign for the safety of Journalists – Journalists Matter, aimed at promoting the protection and safety of media professionals.
When opening the event, Monica Gubernat, CNA President referred to the war journalists as the eyes and the ears of the world in the midst of the chaos and violence, essential for the public to understand the tragedies and complexities of the conflicts.
Artemiza - Tatiana Chișca, Head of the Freedom of Expression and CDMSI Division represented the Council of Europe at the event, sharing information about the Journalists Matter Campaign and efforts of the Council of Europe in this area.
Jodie Ginsberg, CEO of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ) and Ricardo Gutierrez, Secretary General of the European Federation of Journalists (EFJ) contributed with video-messages to the event.
"Taking a brief glance out there, it's clear that the image of journalists has been declining sharply for many years. This continuous deterioration isn't healthy for democracy, nor does it accurately represent what journalism means in Romania. This portrayal isn't accurate because there are numerous journalists who do their job exceptionally well, with honesty, yet suffer due to a tarnished image they don't contribute to. Thus, arises this moment where we aim to highlight the journalist who isn't just highly skilled but also brave. We want to showcase them publicly, to share in their achievements, to let them and the public in the square know that professional journalism can indeed be uncompromising”, commented Mircea Toma, CNA member and Romanian Focal Point for the Journalists Matter Campaign.
The spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense, Constantin Spînu, recalled that the MoND initiated a course in 2004 for correspondents reporting from conflict zones. The course aims to provide journalists with practical skills to cope in challenging situations, including security protocols, protective measures, knowledge of weaponry, awareness and avoidance of dangers posed by mines, explosive devices, and traps, as well as behaviour in the event of capture.
A training course for conflict zones journalists was also presented by the European Broadcasting Union (EBU).
Some of the journalists who have been in Ukraine since the beginning of the war or in Israel, in the conflict zone with Hamas, took the stage and reported on their experiences as war correspondents in conflict zones.
Video statement by Jodie Ginsberg, CEO of the Committee to Protect Journalists (CPJ), Partner of the Platform to promote the protection of journalism and safety of journalists
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