04/23/2020
Partners in protecting people
https://www.unicef.org/nepal/stories/partners-protecting-people
How can media help decrease stigma and discrimination during the COVID-19 crisis? The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) outbreak has caused a proliferation of stigma and discrimination in our communities. The level of stigma associated with COVID-19 is based on three main factors:, 1) it is a disease that’s new and for which there are still many unknowns. 2) we are often afraid of the unknown. 3) it is easy to associate that fear with ‘others’., It is understandable that there is confusion, anxiety, and fear among the public. Unfortunately, these factors are also fueling harmful stereotypes. Those who are most vulnerable to stigma and discrimination are: people who tested positive for the virus and their families; those who have returned from foreign countries and their families; and…, Journalists and media have an important role to play. In addition to accurately informing the public about coronavirus and ways to avoid the risk of infection, they also have an important role in ensuring that the information they provide does not increase stigma and discrimination against people affected by the crisis., An environment needs to be created in which the disease and its impact can be discussed and addressed openly, honestly and effectively. This image shows an illustration of two people wearing masks looking at paper airplanes flying in the sky as a symbol of hope Sattya/2020/SDevkota, Share stories of hope, During a time of increasing anxiety, media plays a critical role - not only in providing accurate information and busting myths and rumors- but also in showcasing the positive side of humanity. This is a moment to profile the stories of people who are coping with the lockdown and connecting with others through technology or how people are managing…, This is a time for sharing stories that unify us, stories of small acts of kindness and how people are coming together to support each other., , , , , Respect privacy, The privacy of people who were tested positive to COVID-19 and those around them – their families, friends and colleagues – should be respected. T, heir names, addresses, family backgrounds, personal and medical records should not be disclosed, or even hinted at, without permission., Sometimes identifying their locations, communities and villages is enough to reveal their identities, especially in smaller community settings. Photos and videos of patients should also not be printed or broadcast without permission. This image shows an illustration of a person sitting on a bed Sattya/2020/SDevkota This image shows an…, Do not discriminate, Someone’s age, sex, ethnic background, religion, legal status, disability, marital status, pre-existing medical conditions, and sexual orientation should only be mentioned where they are directly relevant to a story. Irrelevant references create stigma and discrimination., Do not associate COVID-19 with any location, country and region, nationality and ethnicity., The virus can affect anyone, regardless of socio-economic status, nationality, race, religion, gender or ethnicity. , , , , Avoid sensationalism, Resist the temptation to sensationalize issues in ways which could be harmful. Sensational language and images can cause unnecessary anxiety as well as generate more widespread fear., Do not use discriminatory, derogatory, threatening and sensational language and tone while communicating and reporting on COVID-19., In addition, avoid sensationalism in the headline as a way to drive readers to the main article. this image shows an illustration of a child experiencing anxiety because of the news of COVID-19 that an adult is looking at behind him on a laptop Sattya/2020/SDevkota This image shows an illustration of a group of health workers Sattya/2020/…, , , , , Highlight positive role models, Instead of profiling negative stories about those who do not come forward with their symptoms, media can play a vital role in highlighting positive role models including individuals who are practicing self-quarantine after returning from foreign countries (with their consent) or health workers., By highlighting the stories, issues and challenges of these individuals, media can create an environment where people can comfortably share their symptoms without fearing stigma and discrimination., , , , , Avoid blaming, Do not use words like people “transmitting COVID-19,” “infecting others” or “spreading the virus” as it implies intentional transmission and assigns blame. Instead talk about people “acquiring” or “contracting” COVID-19. I, n addition, do not refer to people with the disease as “COVID-19 cases” or “victims.” Also avoid using “COVID-19 suspects” or “suspected cases.”, Instead use words such as “people who have or who may have COVID-19”, “people who are being treated for COVID-19”, “people who are recovering from COVID-19” or “people who died after contracting COVID19.” This image shows an illustration of a man pointing his finger at a woman Sattya/2020/SDevkota, Accuracy and debunking myths, Please continue to seek trusted information from the Government, and UN agencies like WHO and UNICEF. There are websites with updated information and spokespeople on hand should you need any support. Please be aware that fake messages have been circulating in the name of UN agencies. Verify information you receive via SMS and group chats using the…, Key sites for information:, This image shows the Nepal Government coat of arms This image shows the Nepal Government coat of arms This image shows the WHO logo illustration of corona virus
