Tunisia's Press Council has called on the media and journalists to adhere to professional and ethical principles when handling cases of rape, harassment, and sexual assault against children. The council emphasized the importance of prioritizing the protection of the child's dignity and integrity while ensuring the public's right to information and respecting the rights of all parties involved. This directive aims to provide guidance on the media's role in reporting such sensitive cases.
The Press Council's directive, published on September 30, 2026, highlights the need for media outlets to preserve the identity and privacy of child victims. This includes refraining from publishing their names, photos, voices, or any other identifying information. The council also advises against revealing details about the child's family, school, or social environment that could lead to stigmatization or retaliation.
The council recommends that media outlets avoid sensationalism, shocking headlines, and intimate details that could contribute to further victimization. They also caution against making statements that blame the victim or downplay the severity of the sexual violence. Journalists are urged to verify information and sources, distinguish between established facts and allegations, and respect the presumption of innocence and the rights of the defense.
According to the Press Council, revealing the identity of a child victim can constitute an offense under Article 60 of Decree-Law 115 of 2011. The council emphasizes the importance of respecting the legal framework and protecting child victims from further harm. By doing so, the media can play a responsible role in reporting on these sensitive cases.
The directive aims to strike a balance between the public's right to information and the need to protect child victims from further harm. The Press Council encourages media outlets to adopt a responsible and sensitive approach when reporting on cases of sexual violence against children. This approach should prioritize the child's well-being and dignity while ensuring that the public is informed.
The Press Council's initiative is a significant step towards promoting responsible journalism in Tunisia. By providing clear guidelines for media outlets, the council hopes to raise awareness about the importance of protecting child victims and promoting a culture of respect and sensitivity. This move is expected to have a positive impact on the way media outlets handle sensitive cases.
The directive is a welcome development in the context of Tunisia's efforts to combat sexual violence against children. By working together, the media, civil society, and authorities can help create a safer environment for child victims and promote a culture of accountability and respect. The Press Council's guidelines will serve as a valuable resource for media outlets seeking to report responsibly on these sensitive cases.
Key points
- The Press Council emphasizes the importance of preserving the identity and privacy of child victims of sexual violence.
- Media outlets are urged to avoid sensationalism and prioritize the child's dignity and integrity.
- Revealing the identity of a child victim can constitute an offense under Tunisian law.
