SAARC Journalist Forum released the manifesto at Jaipur International confrence

*Sensitive, Collaborative and Grinding Journalism Our aim*SAARC Journalist Forum issued its declaration after the international seminar which lasted by the SAARC Journalist Forum India Chapter. SAARC Journalist Forum – This two-day international seminar, organised by India Chapter, with an intensive sensation and firm resistance, which unanimously condemned the recent terrorist attack in the initiative region of Jammu and Kashmir. This poetic malaury not only took the lives of innocent citizens, but also shocked the values of regional stability, humanity and dialogue. In the opening session of the seminar, speakers in clear words said terrorism can’t be acceptable in any way, and such attacks are the biggest barriers in the way of dialogue, democracy and peace. In particular, the journalism community needs to unite against such attacks, bring the truth to the truth. Speakers also urged that governments and international bodies should make policy-making together against such violent actions so that such incidents do not recur in the future. Speakers shared how journalism could contribute to social homogeneity, cultural dialogue and peace by going beyond borders. Journalism in countries like India, Pakistan, Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Afghanistan and Bhutan has faced several times political pressure and internal conflicts, but despite this, the media has played a key role in promoting references, democratic values and human rights.

Representatives from SAARC countries shared that journalists’ mutual cooperation, cross-border journalism projects, and culture of dialogue could be strengthened through shared platforms. A question of independence of expression in South Asia focused on “freedom of expression in South Asia” in another major session of the seminar, raising the question whether journalism is really independent. Speakers told how journalists in different countries face sensorship, threats, fake lawsuits and physical attacks. Despite this, many journalists are stuck in favor of truth. Speakers also underlined that freedom of expression is not only the right of journalists, but it is also the fundamental right of citizens – which keep protected is the responsibility of any democracy. At the end of this session it was proposed that South Asian countries should work in collaboration with a joint “Media Freedom Charter”. --- ####**4. Strengthens the need for united global outlook against terrorism in the condemnation** seminar. Anxiety was expressed about terror attacks and threats that occur on journalists, especially. Many journalists around the world were killed only because they were trying to speak the truth.

Speakers said that a conflict is necessary not only military action against terrorism, but also on ideological, social and contractual front-on-the-journalists’ role is central on this front. The idea was that the media should not only be limited to news, but it has to set up the idea of peace and compassion in society too. Emphasized on the need for journalist safety Act. "In the closing session of the seminar, the emphasis on the need for ""Journalist Safety Act"" was given." Speakers shared that there is no dedicated law regarding the safety of journalists in many countries of South Asia, including India. Every year hundreds of journalists risk and report by risking lives, several times power and convicts of them are at risk. In such a demand for a solid and influential journalist security act has now become not only journalists, but also of civil society. Representatives said that this Act will protect not only security, but also the dignity and freedom of the work of journalists. The proposal was also passed that governments should take immediate initiatives in this direction, and journalist organisations should joint movement on it together. Use of sensitivity, restraint and ethics in journalism** a serious discussion regarding the language of journalism was presented at the international seminar. Speakers said that in today’s times when information is broadcast at a quick speed, the line of language style and statement of journalists becomes extremely important.

Language is not only a medium of communication, but it is also a carrier of perspective and values. Therefore journalists should use sensitive, balanced, modest and scalen language. Especially when they’re covering a sad aspect, a disaster or struggle of society, the rest of the language becomes even more necessary. Speakers explained through examples how some channels break the language soil in the race of TRP, thereby hurting the dignity of the victims and deepen the division into society. The session also discussed that language sensitivity is a sign of journalist’s sensitivity. Therefore, language ethics and humanitarian views in media training should be preferred.

The focus of the seventh session was on the idea of how journalism could promote peace and cooperation among South Asian countries. Speakers insisted that journalism does not merely criticize or oppose, but also holds the power of britu construction. If media correctly presents each other’s society, culture, struggle and achievements across borders, mutual understanding may be better. This will reduce political cutting and reciprocal faith in the general. Many projects were mentioned on the occasion which have been jointly run by Indian and Pakistani journalists. With such efforts, it is certified that the path of dialogue and cooperation can be pitched by the efforts of journalists.

The session’s conclusion was that journalism should also present the possibility of hope, solutions and coexistence, showing news of struggle. *The beginning of Pool Journalism** seminar discussed the concept of ‘pool journalism’ which was described as today’s practical need. Pool journalism aims to – sharing resources, reports and coverage, especially in sensitive or limited access areas. Speakers told how natural disasters, border areas or conflict-hit areas cover dozens of channels or institutions of same news separately, causing not only a waste of economic resources, but also the accuracy and seriousness of news.

Pool journalism not only increases work efficiency, but also ensures uniformity, balance and truthness of information. At the same time, it also promotes a culture of solidarity and cooperation, directly connected to the seminar’s original theme – Peace and Cooperation –. Speakers suggested that journalism pools among SAARC countries be created to coverage together on regional crises, climate issues or human disasters. *9. Positive news of cross-border** The Navam session had a debut on an extremely inspiring topic – “Positive news of cross-border.” Speakers clarified that due to negative and stimulating news, a feeling of doubt and hostility among border countries increases. If the media decide that it will also show good border news – such as cultural exchange, social development, education, sports, or human cooperation – then a new thinking could begin. The contribution of a Hindu doctor to Pakistan, the help of an Indian institution in Nepal, or the work of Indian teacher in Afghanistan – these are stories that can connect hearts. Speakers said we should move towards ‘Constructive Journalism’ which not only tell the problem, but also suggest solutions. With such efforts, it will be a clear message that our borders are different, but the land of human values and sensations is one. In the declaration letter, the consecutive attacks on journalists in Afghanistan were condemned rapidly. It was reported that working for journalists there has been a life-dead question. Afghan journalists have been deprived of freedom of expression since the Taliban regime, a full ban on female journalists, and journalist organisations have been forced to forced off. Representatives shared how a nation is being pushed into silent and darkness by curbing the independent press. This is not just Afghanistan’s problem, but warning for the entire South Asia. Speakers urged UN, UNESCO and other international organisations to take solid steps to protect the rights of security and expression of Afghan journalists.

The session concluded with the idea that a society cannot be completely independent until a journalist is independent. Indian chapter president Sudhanshu Anirudhu said India is a peaceful country and we will give a message of peace worldwide from this ceremony.