Tinaye Agere
Online Reporter
OVER half of female journalists in Zimbabwe have been subjected to sexual harassment or victimisation in newsrooms, a survey conducted by the Gender and Media Connect (GMC) has revealed.
The study, which was the first phase of a broader multi-region study, was conducted in Harare, Gweru, Bulawayo, Mutare and Masvingo.
It sought to gauge the prevalence of all forms of abuse against female journalists in news organisations.
The survey shows that four news organisations do not have policies that tackle abuse of female journalists.
About 61 of the media houses that took part in the survey indicated that they do not share sexual harassment policies with their staff members.
Addressing a press conference in Harare on Wednesday, GMC national director Ms Patience Zirima said victims of harassment are afraid to report the cases.
“One of the news editors said people are not comfortable speaking to Human Resources. People are afraid of backlash so they will not report.
“Some newsroom supervisors have said some victims prefer to resolve sexual harassment issues internally without making formal reports,” said Ms Zirima.
Online Reporter