The Togolese Ministry of Justice and Human Rights organized a workshop in Lomé on September 21 to educate media professionals on combating discrimination and intolerance based on religious beliefs. The event was held in celebration of the International Day of Peace, which this year had the theme "Investing in Peace: For All, Everywhere, Every Day". The workshop aimed to strengthen the media's contribution to protecting freedom of religion and preventing tensions related to religious convictions.
The workshop featured discussions on the right to freedom of belief and religion, the framework for exercising worship in Togo, and the role of media in combating religious discrimination and intolerance. The representative of the Minister of Justice, Talim Anatère, emphasized that peace is a collective and shared responsibility. He encouraged media professionals to be rigorous, balanced, and fact-based in their reporting, while rejecting intolerance and hate speech.
Anatère recalled the provisions of the Declaration of Fundamental Rights and Duties, annexed to the Constitution of the Fifth Republic. He highlighted that Article 3 prohibits all forms of discrimination, while Article 4 guarantees freedom of belief, conscience, and worship, provided that public order is respected. The Minister's representative stressed the important role of media in shaping representations and influencing behaviors.
Pauline d'Almeida Dokou, Director of Conflict Prevention, emphasized that peace is not decreed but built through dialogue, respect for others, acceptance of differences, and rejection of exclusion. She noted that the diversity of religious convictions can be an asset to society if expressed in mutual respect. However, she warned against the risks of rejection, stigmatization, and discrimination that can fragilize social cohesion and create tensions.
Dokou highlighted the ethical and civic responsibility of media professionals, who contribute to shaping collective consciousness and opinions through their reporting, analysis, and digital content. She encouraged media professionals to use their platforms to combat prejudices and promote understanding between different communities. According to her, "peace can also be built with words, as a single word can divide or bring people together".
The workshop was attended by media professionals, who engaged in discussions and exchanges on the role of media in promoting peace and combating religious discrimination. The event was opened by the Governor of the Autonomous District of Greater Lomé, Zouréhatou Kassah-Traoré. The Togolese Press Agency reported that the workshop was a success, with participants committing to promote peace and understanding through their work.
The International Day of Peace is celebrated annually on September 21, and this year's theme emphasized the importance of investing in peace for all, everywhere, every day. Togo's celebration of the day highlights the country's commitment to promoting peace, stability, and social cohesion. The workshop on combating religious discrimination and intolerance is a significant step towards achieving these goals.
Key points
- The Togolese Ministry of Justice and Human Rights organized a workshop to educate media professionals on combating religious discrimination and intolerance.
- The workshop aimed to strengthen the media's contribution to protecting freedom of religion and preventing tensions related to religious convictions.
- The event was held in celebration of the International Day of Peace, with the theme "Investing in Peace: For All, Everywhere, Every Day".
