Doha, Qatar, May 23, 2005—The Committee to Protect Journalists today released an Arabic language version of its journalist security handbook, “On Assignment: A Guide to Reporting in Dangerous Situations.” Frank Smyth, CPJ’s journalist security coordinator and author of the handbook, officially launched the new edition at a press conference here.
The new edition updates the material in CPJ’s handbook, first published in 2003, and addresses issues of particular concern to journalists in the Arab world. The new edition is available online.
The edition, made possible by a grant from CNN, was published in response to the heavy toll suffered by Arab journalists covering the conflict in Iraq. Since the war began, at least 41 journalists of various nationalities have been killed. But Arab journalists have suffered the heaviest casualties, with 26 killed, most as a result of crossfire.
The handbook provides a comprehensive overview of security issues, as well as resources and practical information on topics ranging from training and insurance to body armor and the rules of war.
Smyth, who compiled the guide in consultation with CPJ staff and journalists worldwide, has covered conflicts in El Salvador, Colombia, Rwanda, Sudan, and Iraq.