Humanities & Social Sciences Tips for covering the sensitive topic of sex trafficking
| Tips for covering the sensitive topic of sex trafficking |
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| Monday, March 31, 2008 | |
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Here are some tips and resources for media representatives who would like to learn more about how to cover sexual and human trafficking. These topics will be addressed April 3-4 when the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s Carolina Women’s Center, in partnership with other campus and local organizations, will host the conference “Combating Sex Trafficking: Prevention and Intervention in North Carolina and Worldwide” at the William and Ida Friday Center for Continuing Education. Background: It is important to remember that trafficking – whether forced labor or sexual exploitation – does not just occur overseas. The United Nations has identified the United States as one of the largest countries of destination for trafficked victims. It is critical that reporters seek to expose the problem in their own backyards. That is the first step to ending trafficking.Sexual trafficking is a particularly challenging issue to cover not only because it is hard to track statistically, but because it is a dangerous story. In some places, it poses a tangible risk to reporters who seek to expose this international crisis. And even when not in personal danger, reporters must take care of themselves when covering traumatic events. Finally, it is of the utmost importance to protect the integrity and privacy of victims. Though it is always desirable to put a “face” to the issue, the media must be mindful of victims’ experiences and vulnerabilities. Resources on the dangers of covering sexual trafficking: Resources on the ethics of covering sexual trafficking: Resources from the Dart Center for Journalism and Trauma: Resources from the International Journalists’ Network (IJN): Carolina Women’s Center contact: Pam Lach, (919) 962-8305,
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