Shooting the Messenger - with Hannah Storm: The Case for Press Freedom

In this episode of "Shooting the Messenger," Hannah Storm hosts Rachel Corp, CEO of ITN, to explore the vital importance of eyewitness journalism, the challenges faced by journalists today, and the enduring need for press freedom. Rachel shares her extensive experience covering conflicts, discusses the impact of misinformation, the importance of mental health conversations in newsrooms, and emphasizes journalism's role in democracy.Key Topics Rachel Corp's journey into journalism, from university radio to international reporting and then leadership of ITN. The core principles of eyewitness journalism: human connection, authenticity, and proximity The impact of misinformation, disinformation, and AI on journalistic integrity The importance of regional news and efforts to combat news deserts in the UK Challenges faced by women journalists: online harassment, career progression, and work-life balance Initiatives by Women in Journalism, including mentoring and AI upskilling programmes The significance of press regulation, impartiality, and accessible trustworthy information Strategies for managing mental health and wellbeing in high-pressure news environments The fight against attacks on journalism and the importance of defending press freedom Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction and episode overview 00:22 - Rachel Cork’s background and early career 01:23 - The importance of human stories and eyewitness reporting 02:57 - Covering conflicts: Bosnia, Gaza, and Iran 04:37 - Misinformation, disinformation, and the role of real-time eyewitness journalism 06:23 - Reporting from conflict zones: challenges and solutions 07:54 - Regional news deserts and efforts to reinstate local journalism 09:00 - The evolution and support of regional journalism in the UK 10:43 - Women in journalism: progress and ongoing challenges 12:08 - Online harassment faced by women journalists 13:39 - Mentoring, training, and embracing AI for future-proof journalism 15:23 - The importance of community and informal mentoring networks 16:47 - Experiences with online harassment and balancing motherhood with journalism 18:02 - Managing hostile responses and the importance of resilience 19:37 - Supporting mental health and wellbeing in high-stress newsrooms 22:26 - The value and purpose of a journalism career with impact 30:19 - Why press freedom and impartial regulation are essential for democracy 33:40 - Fighting attacks on journalists and defending free media 34:54 - Closing remarks and final thoughts on press responsibilityResources & Links: Women in Journalism ITN - Official Website Ofcom - UK Broadcast Regulator

In this episode, Hannah Storm speaks with Sergiy Tomilenko, head of the National Union of Journalists of Ukraine, about the vital role of journalism amidst the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. They explore the evolving threats journalists face, innovative solidarity initiatives, mental health support, and the importance of global media solidarity.Main Topics: The impact of war on press freedom and journalist safety in Ukraine Innovation in journalist support: solidarity centers and safety tools Mental health and resilience strategies for journalists under crisis International solidarity’s role in safeguarding journalism and information access The significance of press freedom for democracy and peace Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: Press freedom and journalism safety during conflict 00:45 - Sergiy Tomilenko’s background and work supporting Ukrainian journalists 01:42 - The toll of international advocacy tours and maintaining morale 02:37 - The role of journalism in defending truth and supporting ordinary people 04:08 - Challenges and dangers faced by Ukrainian journalists during the war 05:28 - The story of Vasyl Miroshnyk and local newspaper resilience 06:49 - Daily threats from Russian drones and frontline dangers 08:06 - Changes in threats to journalism pre- and post-invasion 09:16 - The threat and mitigation of drone attacks on journalists 12:03 - Equipment and mental health support for journalists in war zones 13:18 - The mental health toll of prolonged conflict and resilience measures 21:41 - The creation and impact of Ukrainian Journalist Solidarity Centers 24:13 - Peer support, safety trainings, and international influence 28:27 - Recognition and awards for journalistic solidarity efforts 30:19 - The importance of ongoing international media support 32:33 - Addressing fatigue and maintaining awareness of Ukraine’s ongoing crisis 34:03 - The link between press freedom, democracy, and peace 36:12 - Closing message: The importance of supporting independent journalismResources & Links: European Federation of Journalists UNESCO Media Safety Resources International Federation of Journalists European Festival of Journalism and Media Freedom Journalist Solidarity Centers (Ukrainian Union of Journalists)

In this episode, join Hannah Storm as she speaks with Diane Foley, who shares the inspiring story of how she turned personal tragedy into a global call for press freedom, moral courage, and understanding. Diane shares insights from her journey—her son Jim's legacy, her faith, and her remarkable efforts to advocate for journalists and foster empathy worldwide.Key Topics Diane Foley’s background and the founding of the Foley Foundation The importance of moral courage in journalism, as exemplified by Jim Foley The connection between press freedom and democracy Safety challenges faced by journalists, especially freelancers and correspondents in conflict zones Lessons from Diane’s encounter with Alexander Kotey, one of the men accused of torturing her son, and the power of listening and empathy The role of faith and hope in sustaining activism and advocacy How storytelling and listening can bridge divisions and heal polarization Practical efforts to improve journalist safety through organizations like the ACOS Alliance The ongoing impact and legacy of Jim Foley’s moral courage Timestamps:00:00 - Introduction: press freedom, sacrifice, and Diane Foley’s story 01:02 - Diane’s reflections on Jim Foley’s legacy and moral courage 02:28 - Jim Foley’s motivation to become a journalist and his dedication to truth 04:15 - The significance of holding space for marginalized voices 06:19 - The importance for the public to understand journalists' risks 08:15 - Link between press freedom and democracy 10:05 - Evolving threats to journalists and press freedom over time 11:41 - The Foley Foundation’s mission and key achievements 13:43 - Advice for young journalists in a dangerous world 15:22 - The role of the ACOS Alliance in journalist safety, especially freelancers 17:13 - What keeps Diane going: moral courage and faith 18:34 - The power of hope and standing for what is right 20:17 - Faith as Diane’s strength amid adversity 21:30 - Maintaining energy and resilience at nearly 80 years old 23:12 - The importance of listening and empathy in bridging divides 25:15 - The experience of meeting Alexander Cote and the act of forgiveness 26:43 - The significance of empathy and compassion in healing and understanding 28:00 - Jim Foley’s enduring legacy of moral courage and influence 29:24 - Addressing those who attack journalists and threaten press freedom 30:20 - The role of hope, love, and moral courage in a better future 31:13 - Final thoughts and messages of support for press freedom advocatesResources & Links American Mother by Diane Foley Foley Foundation Committee to Protect Journalists Reporters Without Borders Narrative Four ACOS Alliance

Join Hannah Storm for this launch episode, featuring an in-depth conversation with Jodie Ginsberg, CEO of the Committee to Protect Journalists. Here they discuss the critical importance of press freedom amidst increasing threats to journalists worldwide. Discover the realities of our evolving media landscape, the dangers faced by journalists, and the impactful work of CPJ in defending those who bear witness.Key topics The rise in threats, harassment, and violence against journalists globally How changes in journalism impact trust and community engagement The importance of local news outlets in maintaining trust and democracy CPJ’s shift towards direct assistance, mitigation, and advocacy strategies The playbook used by authoritarian regimes to discredit and silence journalists The toll of journalism on mental health and the importance of support systems Leadership responsibility in fostering organizational well-being How non-journalists can support press freedom and advocate for information access The resilience of the message: why silencing journalists never silences the truth Timestamps00:00 - Welcome and overview of press freedom challenges 01:05 - The current dangerous climate for journalists worldwide 02:19 - Misinformation, disinformation, and the role of journalists 03:01 - Personal journey into journalism and motivation 04:18 - Power of reporting to create change and impact policy 05:16 - The role of local news and community trust building 07:42 - Consequences of local news erosion and news deserts 09:45 - The necessity of access to factual information for democracy 11:05 - CPJ’s comprehensive approach: documentation, assistance, advocacy 12:26 - Rising need for safety and trauma support for journalists 13:18 - Addressing threats, violence, and impunity worldwide 15:08 - The changing tactics in defending journalists and facing repression 16:52 - Systemic impunity and the playbook of authoritarian repression 18:55 - The danger of demonization and its escalation to violence 20:53 - The importance of protecting marginalized journalists and diversity 22:22 - Online harassment, self-censorship, and the impact on journalism 23:44 - The toll of trauma, stress, and the importance of mental health support 28:41 - Leadership roles in supporting staff and organizational resilience 30:22 - Recognizing different stressors in journalism career paths 33:42 - Self-care strategies for journalists and leaders in advocacy 35:57 - The significance of purpose and belief in the work of press freedom advocates 38:07 - Why protecting the right to factual information matters for all 39:30 - How individuals outside journalism can support press freedom 41:19 - The resilience of truth: why silencing messengers failsResources & LinksCommittee to Protect Journalists (CPJ)