From covering wars to protest movements, women journalists working in conflict zones take immense risks in the name of freedom of information. The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) and its Gender Council are putting them in the spotlight as part of its campaign around International Women's Day on 8 March.

Ten women have been killed in the line of duty in 2022, most of them reporting from conflict zones.

Women journalists face extreme challenges while reporting on the ground, from military attacks and threats to police intimidation, surveillance and systematic gender-based violence. Their safety is regularly put at risk, and many have developed their own tactics to stay safe.

Other work-related problems arise in certain parts of the world such as the absence of work contracts or insurance, the lack of safety equipment adapted to women’s bodies and training, digital safety loopholes, and wage arrears that force many journalists to take additional risks to make ends meet.

But reporting in conflict zones and zones of tensions is also an opportunity for women journalists to make a change in the conflict’s narrative, challenge gender stereotypes and report differently. Women’s voices are crucial to get a full understanding of a story. Sometimes being a woman even becomes an asset to access certain locations and talk to sources.

Read the testimonies of women journalists around the world and share their stories widely.
Campaign for the ratification of the ILO Convention No. 190 against violence and harassment in the world of work.
Support IFJ-led Convention on the safety and independence of journalists and media workers.

Testimonies of women journalists

Take action!

Spread the word

Download and share the visual of our campaign in English, French and Spanish on social media. Share the testimonies of women journalists covering conflicts around the world. Tag #WomenReportingConflicts #IWD2023 and @IFJGlobal on Twitter, Facebook, Instagram and LinkedIn.

Push for the ratification of C190

Campaign for the ratification of the ILO Convention No. 190 against violence and harassment in the world of work. Read more about what unions can do to push governments for its ratification and take action at the national level.

Key message for social media: Violence is not part of the job. Women journalists deserve a safe working environment. Stop violence at work, Ratify ILO Convention C190. #RatifyC190 #IWD2023

Support an International Convention to protect journalists

Despite many protocols, guidelines and proposals, journalists still face daily threats, and impunity continues to make the situation worse. Read the IFJ-led International Convention on the safety and independence of journalists and lobby your government and political parties to support it.

Key message for social media: Women journalists need an international convention to protect their safety. Support IFJ-led Convention on the safety and independence of journalists. #IWD2023

Share knowledge on women's safety

Send us any report/statistics/safety guidelines highlighting women journalist's safety in your country or region. You can send them to [email protected]

Organise an event

Mark International Women’s Day on 8 March by organising a special event to draw attention to pressing issues such as gender equality, gender-based violence, and equal pay, among others.