Dohuk:The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) has concluded a specialized training program in Dohuk, aimed at enhancing the skills of more than 27 female journalists, content creators, and digital influencers. This initiative focused on “peace journalism” and the production of media content to foster social cohesion and support safe reintegration.

According to National Iraqi News Agency, the training was part of the “Strengthening Social Cohesion and Safe Reintegration in Iraq” project, implemented in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP). The project aims to enhance the media’s role in building trust among displaced persons, returnees, and host communities, while ensuring the voices of those affected by displacement are represented responsibly and equitably.

The program included specialized topics in peace journalism and conflict-sensitive reporting, focusing on improving media coverage of social issues. It covered areas such as fact-checking, headline and imagery selection, source protection, respect for privacy, and obtaining informed consent. Additionally, the training emphasized avoiding stigmatizing terminology and promoting social unity.

Participants engaged in practical exercises and simulations to handle complaints, unsubstantiated claims, and hostile narratives. They learned to differentiate between legitimate criticism and hate speech and to analyze visual content for context. The training also highlighted the importance of avoiding media use that could harm affected communities.

Discussions addressed challenges in digital content creation, the need for information verification, issuing corrections when necessary, and presenting stories of women and families affected by displacement in ways that respect their dignity and rights.

This training is part of UNESCO’s broader efforts to empower female journalists and content creators to use media as a tool for social understanding, support reintegration processes, and spotlight local initiatives. These efforts aim to build trust and reduce hate speech and division.