Benin Journalists Trained on Reporting Gender-Based Violence

• A discussion on responsible reporting of gender-based violence (VBG) took place in Cotonou, Benin.
• The event was organized by RAME-VBG, a consortium coordinated by SOS Civisme Bénin-Banouto.
• Journalists are being trained to report VBG cases without stigmatizing or harming individuals.

The initiative aims to promote accurate and sensitive reporting of VBG cases in Benin's media outlets.

A discussion on responsible and effective reporting of gender-based violence (VBG) in the media took place at the Media House in Cotonou on August 14, 2026. The event was organized by the Network of Media Actors Engaged Against Gender-Based Violence (RAME-VBG), a consortium coordinated by SOS Civisme Bénin-Banouto. The discussion was led by Tanguy Agoï, the elected president of the ODEM.

The initiative aims to promote accurate and sensitive reporting of VBG cases in Benin's media outlets.

In recent years, there has been a growing need for journalists in Benin to report on gender-based violence without stigmatizing or harming individuals. This requires a nuanced understanding of the laws and regulations surrounding defamation claims. Lawyers and compliance officers should be aware that this initiative may have implications for future defamation cases.

The RAME-VBG consortium is working to establish guidelines for reporting VBG in Benin, which will help journalists navigate these complex issues.

Effective reporting on gender-based violence is crucial for raising awareness and promoting action against this issue. By training journalists to report sensitively and accurately, the RAME-VBG initiative aims to create a safer environment for survivors of VBG in Benin.

The success of this project will depend on its ability to reach a wide audience and influence media practices across the country.

Lawyers and compliance officers should watch for the potential impact of this initiative on defamation claims, as journalists are encouraged to report on gender-based violence without stigmatizing or harming individuals.

Source: Original reporting via Médias et lutte contre les VBG au Bénin : les journalistes appelés à informer sans blesser ni stigmatiser