This initiative, organized by USAID’s Justice Activity in Kosovo in collaboration with BIRN Kosovo, focused on equipping participants with the skills needed for accurate, fact-based reporting.
The program commenced at the Palace of Justice with insightful remarks from key figures including the President of the Judicial Council of Kosovo and the President of the Basic Court in Prishtina. They highlighted the pivotal role of journalists in upholding the integrity of judicial reporting. The session was moderated by a well-known local journalist.
Throughout the five-day course, participants engaged in a rigorous curriculum aimed at deepening their understanding of the justice system. Key components included:
Institutional Visits: Participants toured significant judicial institutions, such as the Basic Court of Prishtina and the Kosovo Judicial Council, to gain direct knowledge of legal procedures and administrative functions.
Misinformation Identification: Sessions focused on recognizing and addressing common disinformation narratives. Experts explained how misinformation is funded and propagated within the justice system.
Fact-Checking Standards: The program provided practical training on international fact-checking standards and advanced search techniques to enhance the accuracy of reporting.
Technology and Disinformation: Discussions covered the role of technology in spreading disinformation and how to leverage tech tools for more reliable journalism.
Data and Reporting: Participants learned about data verification practices and how to handle disinformation related to civil and commercial cases. They also explored how to report on sensitive issues such as domestic violence and judicial performance.
The final day of the Summer School included sessions on navigating open data platforms and ensuring the protection of personal data. This comprehensive training aimed to bolster the participants’ ability to report accurately and responsibly on complex justice-related issues.
This Summer School brought together journalists from various media outlets and NGOs, fostering a collaborative environment that promotes higher standards of journalism. The skills and knowledge gained are expected to enhance the quality of reporting and contribute to greater public trust in Kosovo’s justice system.
In conclusion, USAID’s Justice Activity in Kosovo’s Summer School has successfully empowered journalists with the tools to combat misinformation and improve the accuracy of justice reporting. By addressing the challenges of disinformation and enhancing fact-based reporting, this initiative plays a crucial role in fostering transparency and accountability within the justice system.