Society of Professional Journalists
Improving and protecting journalism since 1909

War Journalism Resources

In A Dangerous Job, Robert Leger writes about how journalists, too, have a role in the fight for freedom, and sometimes the risks of reporting are great. Sadly, the death of a journalist isn’t unusual. Last year, at least three dozen reporters were killed for doing their jobs. They asked questions, looked at records and reported what they found. They didn’t put on a uniform or carry a weapon, but they, too, were fighting for freedom.

The SPJ Fact Sheet on Foreign Press Credentials offers some general advice on obtaining and using press credentials outside your own country, based on the experience of foreign correspondents.

Safety

The International Federation of Journalists has a page of recommended safety links that covers everything from safety training, health and evacuation insurance for war zones, and where to buy a bullet-proof vest.

The Rory Peck Trust offers a training fund to enable freelance media workers worldwide to take safety training courses…

Guides

The International Federation of Journalists offers Live News — A Survival Guide for Journalists that covers such topics as advance planning, covering riots, and how to survive when kidnapped.

The Committee to Project Journalists offers a very comprehensive guidebook, titled On Assignment: Covering Conflicts Safely [PDF]

Reporters Without Borders offers a guide [PDF] that answers such questions as what the rules are for survival in a war zone and how first aid should be given to someone who is injured.

London’s National Union of Journalists offers a brief guide on protests, titled Advice for Photographers Covering Demonstrations.

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