Cairo, 19 March – The International Organization for Migration (IOM), in coordination with the Government of Egypt’s National Coordinating Committee for Combatting and Preventing Illegal Migration and Trafficking in Persons (NCCPIM&TiP), conducted a two-day training in Cairo for Egyptian media personnel on reporting on trafficking in persons. The training focuses on improving the knowledge of media professionals on trafficking in persons and related ethical considerations.

The training, conducted by members of NCCPIM&TiP, IOM and an expert media professional, covered migration and trafficking concepts, terminology, anti-trafficking and smuggling laws in Egypt, and reporting practices. Great emphasis was placed on the role of the media as both a resource of information and their influence on public opinion, including the ability of the media to dispel misconceptions, misinformation, and negative rhetoric about victims of trafficking through the use of proper terminology, thoughtful and thorough research, and sensitive reporting.

The training was conducted under the Government of the Netherlands’ programme “Strengthening Egyptian Governmental Efforts to Combat Trafficking in Persons”, through which IOM supports the Government of Egypt’s national strategy to combat trafficking in persons.

Kristiina Wells, IOM’s Counter Trafficking focal point in Egypt, said in her opening remarks for the training: “IOM appreciates the important role that the media plays in combatting human trafficking, and the role it plays in providing vital awareness raising information to the public. We look forward to this opportunity to exchange knowledge and expertise and learn from one another as we tackle this issue.”

The training supports the achievement of the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly Goal 16: Peace, justice and strong institutions and Goal 17: Revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development. The initiative is in line with Egypt’s Sustainable Development Strategy: Vision 2030 for a fair interdependent society characterized by equal economic, social, political rights and opportunities realizing social inclusion.

For more information, please contact Omar Awwad at IOM Egypt, Tel: +2 02 2736 5140/1, Email: oawwad@iom.int