Amid growing concerns over the impact of media coverage on children, the National Commission for Women and Children (NCWC) and UNICEF Bhutan have joined forces to advocate for stronger editorial standards when reporting on child-related issues.
At a two-day workshop held in Paro, more than 20 journalists and editors from across the country came together to explore ethical practices in child reporting. The event highlighted the delicate balance between raising awareness on critical issues such as abuse and neglect and protecting the rights and dignity of children.
The workshop, described as a timely intervention, brought to light the potential harm caused by publishing identifiable information or photographs of children. In several cases, such exposure has retraumatized both the children involved and their families.
“There is a need to support the professionalism of journalists who inform people on issues that really matter,” said Reena Thapa, Chief Programme Officer at NCWC. “One such issue is the stories of children. We must build the capacity of our journalists in portraying children responsibly and safeguarding their rights.”
Participants engaged in scenario analysis and editorial discussions, focusing on ways to avoid sensationalism and prioritize a child’s best interests in reporting. The sessions underscored the importance of looking beyond anonymity and considering the long-term consequences of media exposure on minors.
Despite general editorial standards in most newsrooms, the lack of a unified, child-sensitive reporting protocol has led to inconsistencies—particularly among newer journalists who may not have received formal training.
Sangay Rabten, a reporter from Business Bhutan, acknowledged the progress made through training. “UNICEF has been supporting us in learning how to report on children. Today, even new reporters are more equipped to write responsibly and strike a balance.”
Chencho Dema, a journalist with Kuensel, shared a candid reflection: “Sometimes, because we are not trained, we do not know what to include or omit. We may end up using a child’s name, age, or location—details that can compromise their safety.”
In response, UNICEF Bhutan and NCWC are urging media organisations to formalize ethical practices through institutional guidelines, continuous staff training, and collaboration with child protection agencies.
They are also calling for a broader national dialogue. “This isn’t just about journalists,” a joint statement from the two organisations emphasized. “Parents, teachers, community leaders, and readers all need to understand what ethical child reporting looks like—and why it’s so crucial.”
The initiative marks a step forward in strengthening child protection in Bhutan’s media landscape, reinforcing the idea that the truth can be told without putting children at risk.
