The media has a powerful role in shaping public opinion, exposing wrongdoing and holding institutions accountable. But when journalism involves children, that power comes with an even greater responsibility: the duty to protect those who may be unable to protect themselves.
Information, Media and Broadcasting Services Minister Dr. Ismaila Ceesay was therefore right to remind Gambian journalists and media practitioners that the safety, dignity and best interests of children must come before the pursuit of breaking news, online engagement and public attention.
His warning is particularly relevant in an era when a photograph, video or social media post can travel around the world within seconds and remain online indefinitely. A careless headline or an improperly published image may follow a child for years, potentially affecting their education, relationships, employment opportunities and emotional well-being.
The principle should be simple: a child is not content.
Journalists must exercise particular caution when reporting cases involving child abuse, sexual violence, children in conflict with the law or other vulnerable situations. Revealing a child’s identity, publishing identifiable photographs or providing unnecessary details can expose victims to stigma, discrimination, retaliation and further trauma.
The distinction between public interest and public curiosity is also essential. The fact that people want to know something does not automatically mean that the information should be published. Responsible journalism requires professionals to ask not only whether a story can be published, but whether it should be published and what consequences publication could have for the child.
At the same time, children should not be portrayed only as victims. The Gambian media can play a positive role by highlighting young people’s achievements in education, sports, innovation, leadership and community development. Children deserve to be represented with dignity and hope.
The media’s responsibility should also extend to digital platforms. Editors and reporters must understand that deleting an online post does not necessarily erase its consequences. Images and information can be copied, shared and stored permanently.
Protecting children, however, is not the responsibility of journalists alone. Government, parents, schools, communities, law enforcement agencies and development partners all have important roles to play.
Press freedom remains fundamental to democracy, but freedom must be exercised responsibly. Investigative journalism should expose wrongdoing without exploiting vulnerable victims.
As the minister aptly reminded media practitioners: tell the story, but protect the child. Ask difficult questions, but do not re-traumatise. In journalism, getting the story should never come at the expense of a child’s future.