Inquiry seeks information on threats to journalists

As the death toll for journalists worldwide continues to rise, an international investigation into the trend is asking journalists and others for helpful information.

The International News Safety Institute (INSI) is asking anyone with knowledge or experience related to attacks on journalists to contact the members of its Inquiry. The Inquiry will spend the next year assessing issues faced by journalists in dangerous situations. Its researchers seek input from journalists as well as governments, military officials, and NGOs.

BBC Global News Director Richard Sambrook is heading the Inquiry, which also includes organizations such as the Committee to Protect Journalists, the International Federation of Journalists, the International Press Institute, and the World Association of Newspapers.

The Inquiry held its first hearing in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on May 10. Its next one is scheduled for May 23 in Doha, Qatar. More will be held in Africa, the Americas and Europe, INSI said.

Anyone who wants to offer information should contact Sambrook at richard.sambrook@bbc.co.uk, telephone +44 20 7557 2057, or INSI Director Rodney Pinder at rodney.pinder@newssafety.com, telephone +44 7734 709 267.

INSI: http://www.newssafety.com/stories/insi/inquiry02.htm
May 12, 2005