Boost Your Climate Reporting Skills: ILO and Partner Groups Train Journalists for Impactful Coverage

By Mashe Umaru Gwamna

Recently, the International Labour Organization (ILO) teamed up with local civil society groups to train journalists on climate reporting. This two-day event, organized by the Citizens Free Service Forum, took place at the United Nations Building in Abuja, Nigeria.

Experts emphasized the need for journalists to leave their familiar environments and explore real-life climate issues. Their goal is to spark citizen interest and push for necessary policies. Comrade Sani Baba, the Executive Director of CFSF, highlighted the media’s crucial role in not only informing the public but also influencing discussions that lead to policy changes.

He pointed out that to tackle the climate crisis effectively, education and training are vital. This idea aligns with Article 6 of the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, which stresses the importance of knowledge in climate action.

Nigeria is facing severe climate challenges. Many African nations, including Nigeria, suffer disproportionately from climate change effects. The training aimed to spotlight often-overlooked impacts, particularly on workers.

During the event, Comrade Echezona Asuzu discussed the historical roots of the climate crisis, connecting it to the industrial revolution. He explained how industrialization increased fossil fuel dependence, pushing for global initiatives like the Kyoto Protocol and, later, the Paris Agreement. These agreements aim to limit global warming and require countries to develop increasingly ambitious climate action plans.

Philip Jakpor, Executive Director of the Renevlyn Development Initiative, noted that much of the media coverage focuses on climate disasters abroad. He stressed the urgent need to report on domestic issues, such as the shrinking Lake Chad, which has drastically reduced in size since the 1960s. Jakpor warned that ignoring local climate challenges leads to severe consequences, including loss of livelihoods and threats to food security.

He also pointed out how the industrialization model pushed by wealthier nations relies heavily on fossil fuels, exacerbating climate issues in poorer regions. This dynamic often leaves vulnerable communities without the resources needed for adaptation and resilience.

Training sessions covered essential skills for effective climate reporting. Elijah Iklaga spoke about translating global climate justice into local contexts, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing aid for communities most affected by climate change.

David Boys from Public Services International underlined the need for comprehensive, well-researched reports to support informed policymaking. He mentioned how strong public institutions are crucial for holding corporations accountable.

As the workshop wrapped up, ILO representative Stephen Agugua presented certificates to participants, expressing hope that their new skills would lead to improved climate reporting. He reiterated the ILO’s commitment to collaborating with the media to bring attention to the unmet needs of frontline communities affected by climate change.

In today’s world, where climate issues are increasingly urgent, the role of knowledgeable and proactive journalists has never been more important. Their stories can inspire action and drive meaningful change.

Source link