The Female Journalists Association of Liberia (FeJAL) has issued a call for the protection and empowerment of female journalists amid the ongoing global campaign for the eradication of violence against women and girls. As Liberia participates in the 16 Days of Activism focused on this important cause, FeJAL is committed to creating a secure and supportive working environment for women journalists throughout the country. Embracing the year’s global theme, “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” and the national focus on translating discussions into action, FeJAL is poised to leverage media platforms to foster public awareness around the rights and protections of women journalists.
The advocacy efforts commence with an engaging panel discussion hosted by the Liberia Broadcasting System (ELBC), which took place on November 25, 2024. This initiative not only aims to address the pressing challenges faced by women journalists within newsrooms but also seeks to promote the development of safe workspaces. These discussions will cover various topics, including the protection of rights, the necessity of supportive leadership roles for women in media, and the overall well-being of female journalists. FeJAL’s approach includes utilizing advocacy talk shows and social media campaigns to significantly raise public consciousness regarding these crucial issues.
FeJAL is particularly keen on mobilizing media stakeholders to enact change concerning the treatment of women in journalism. The organization emphasizes the importance of creating workspaces that are void of intimidation, harassment, and exploitation. The ongoing discussions are designed to inspire collective action and demonstrate the effectiveness of support networks that can shield female journalists from different forms of violence and discrimination. By advocating for a collaborative approach, FeJAL envisions a paradigm shift that would encourage a more respectful and equitable environment in the media sector.
In addition to the panel discussions, FeJAL plans to extend its outreach by collaborating with USAID Media Activity Partner stations across various counties. This strategy will involve featuring county coordinators who will engage with local audiences on similar themes of protecting women journalists’ rights and promoting safe working conditions. Throughout these 16 Days of Activism, FeJAL’s collective mission is to generate meaningful dialogue among stakeholders while promoting the necessary resources and support networks crucial for the empowerment of women in journalism.
Moreover, the broader aspirations of FeJAL align seamlessly with both global and national efforts aimed at ending violence against women and breaking down the barriers that hinder women’s progress in journalism. The association recognizes that achieving tangible change requires sustained advocacy and a commitment from all sectors of society. By fostering an environment that encourages female leadership and ensures equal opportunity within media, FeJAL hopes to empower women journalists to assert their rights and contribute positively to the media landscape in Liberia.
FeJAL stands as a prominent organization dedicated to media development, actively working to advance the causes of women journalists throughout Liberia’s 15 counties. The organization not only champions the rights of women in a traditionally male-dominated field but also aims to create a supportive framework that encourages participation and leadership among women journalists. Through its advocacy, resources, and collaborative efforts, FeJAL aspires to lead the way in promoting a more inclusive and fair media ecosystem in Liberia, ultimately benefiting society as a whole.
