Abraji launches English and Spanish versions of self-protection guide for journalists during elections

The Brazilian Association of Investigative Journalism (Abraji), with support from IFEX, has made available the guide “Self-protection in electoral coverage: a guide to preventing attacks against freedom of the press” in English and Spanish. The document offers practical recommendations to help reporters and newsrooms create preventive protocols for physical, digital, legal, and mental health safety.

Why access the guide? 

During election periods, the risk of hostility and attacks against the press increases significantly. Creating and following a protection protocol is essential for independent journalists and newsrooms to evaluate threats in advance and act quickly in situations of violence.

What the material offers:

• Risk assessment: Guidelines for identifying the level of danger in coverage.
• Practical prevention: Tips on mapping risk areas, protecting digital accounts, and safeguarding sources, documents, and evidence.
• Mental health and support network: Actions to recognize signs of exhaustion and strengthen networking among professionals and media associations.
• Field planning: A checklist of essential questions to assess the viability and safety of an assignment before heading into the field.

The complete guide is available now in Portuguese, English, and Spanish.

In case of threats or attacks, Abraji's Security Unit offers guidance and support to professionals via email at [email protected] or through the institution's official website.