TTPBA workshop focuses on election reporting

Ahead of the general election constitutionally due next year, media practitioners and aspiring media workers on August 6 got some tips on enhancing election coverage at a workshop in Westmoorings.

The event, Enhancing Ethical and Effective Election Coverage, was hosted courtesy a collaboration between the Media Institute of the Caribbean (MIC), the British High Commission and the TT Publishers and Broadcasters Association.

It was held at the TT Chamber of Commerce at Columbus Circle and was the opening day of a three-part series.

Chinali Patel, head of economic, political and press, at the High Commission, said the workshop is a critical part of promoting a fair and just system.

She said journalists play an important role in the democratic process.

"At the core of election reporting lies the need for accuracy and fairness. In an era where misinformation spreads rapidly, your commitment to factual reporting is commendable and crucial," Patel told the gathering.

"Every piece of information you publish has the potential to influence public perception and voter behaviour. It is therefore imperative to be well equipped to effectively verify the authenticity of information and present it without bias."

She added that elections have an impact on everyone, and it is crucial that reporting reflects a diversity of perspectives.

Patel said, "It is useful in seeking out voices from different communities, particularly those that are often under-represented as this enriches reporting and contributes to a more informed and equitable society.

"Election night might be the climax, but it's not the end of the story. Post-election reporting is equally important. Your work helps ensure that the democratic process continues to function effectively beyond just the casting of votes."

There were several experts as presenters. These included Elections and Boundaries Commission (EBC) chairman, Mark Ramkerrysingh who spoke about EBC's role in general elections, media veterans Tony Fraser, Wesley Gibbings (MIC vice president) and Kiran Maharaj (MIC president), political analyst Dr Bishnu Ragoonath and international award-winning journalist Craig Silverman.

Apart from media personnel attending, there were COSTAATT chair of digital media and communication Sophia Edwards-Knox, senior lecturer Roddy Batchasingh and aspiring journalists from the college.

The workshop continues on August 8 and ends on August 14.