AJMI - Doha

The Al Jazeera Media Institute recently concluded a journalism course in Beirut on October 2nd, focusing on legal aspects and international legislation. Led by legal expert Hala Ahdad, the course was attended by 16 journalists and was part of the Media for Development initiative.

The primary objective of the course was to enhance the participants' journalistic skills from a human rights perspective. It aimed to familiarize them with essential laws and regulations vital to journalists. Topics covered included human rights standards and relevant United Nations mechanisms, freedom of opinion and expression along with its constraints, differentiation between legitimate expression and discriminatory or hate speech.

Additionally, the course delved into the concept of international humanitarian law, its extent of protection, and key conventions associated with it. Special attention was given to the rights of journalists and their legal protection in accordance with both international human rights and humanitarian law. The course also provided insights into how journalists can safeguard themselves legally.