1What is the main goal of Project TJC – “Targeting Journalists is a Crime”?
The primary aim of Project TJC (#justice4journalists) is to raise awareness and enforce accountability, striving to put an end to impunity and global injustice surrounding the targeted attacks and killings of journalists worldwide. The initiative is designed to bolster the collective efforts on investigative and accountability mechanisms across international, national, and regional human rights systems that support media freedom and the protection and safety of journalists. It aims to heighten public awareness about the critical role of journalism and enhance cooperation among various stakeholders to safeguard journalistic safety and media freedom.
2 Can you share more about the background and rationale for this campaign?
The project was initiated in response to the dramatic increase in the targeting and killing of journalists, as well as their families, notably during the Israel war on Gaza and in other regions like Mexico, South America, Africa, India, Russia, and elsewhere. Despite legal efforts, the majority of these crimes remain unpunished due to impunity. This persistent issue undermines journalism and media freedom worldwide, prompting the need for a strategic and practical approach to end impunity and protect journalists.
3 What are the specific objectives of Project TJC?
1. Awareness & Engagement.
2. Build User Engagement.
3. Collate/Develop Educational Resources.
4. Research & Insights.
5. Protection & Support Resources.
6. Networking & Collaboration.
4 At what stage is Project TJC?
At this stage, the Project is focused on forming a strong international coalition that will work towards ending the impunity on the targeting and killing of journalists worldwide. This initiative will include efforts to increase awareness about these issues, advocate for stronger protections, and push for accountability for perpetrators. The campaign will leverage media, legal avenues, and direct engagement with international bodies to ensure that these objectives are pursued rigorously.
5 Who are the current supporting members?
The TJC Initiative is a collaborative effort involving various stakeholders from around the world. This includes Al Jazeera, CPJ, IPI, IBAHRI, IAPA, and Camerapix. Supporting members will be updated accordingly.
6 How will the project be governed and supported?
A steering committee comprised of representatives from key supporting members will oversee the initiative. This committee is responsible for guiding the strategic direction, ensuring alignment with broader media freedom efforts, and mobilizing resources for implementation.
7 How can I get involved in the TJC Initiative?
Organizations and individuals can get involved in the TJC Initiative in several ways:
• Join the Coalition: Become a member of the coalition by reaching out to the steering committee to express interest. Membership is open to journalists’ organizations, human rights groups, legal experts, and other stakeholders who support media freedom.
• Contribute Expertise: Experts in media law, journalism, human rights, fund-raising, and related fields can contribute by participating in ideas, workshops, research, and public advocacy efforts.
• Volunteer: Support the initiative’s activities by volunteering time and skills, especially in areas like campaign promotion, event organization, and content creation for the campaign website.
• Donate: While there are no mandatory financial commitments, donations to support the ongoing activities and expansion of the campaign are welcomed.
• Advocate and Spread the Word: Use your platform, whether it’s social media, professional networks, or personal circles, to share the hashtag, and raise awareness about the campaign’s goals and the importance of protecting journalists.
8 Privacy and Security in the TJC Initiative:
• Privacy and Security Concerns: The TJC Initiative is deeply committed to the privacy and security of its members and stakeholders.
• Data Protection: All personal and organizational data shared with the TJC Initiative are handled with strict confidentiality and in accordance with global data protection regulations.
• Secure Communication: The initiative aims to ensure that all communications and data exchanges are conducted to protect the information of participants and stakeholders.
• Transparency and Control: Members have full control over the information they share and can request modifications or deletions as per their preferences.
• Cybersecurity Measures: The initiative employs robust cybersecurity measures to safeguard its digital assets, including the campaign website and online databases, from unauthorized access and threats.