Journalists for Human Rights Podcast

Journalists for Human Rights
Journalists for Human Rights Podcast

Journalists for Human Rights is an organization that aims to empower journalists and communities in Canada and all over the world, making a lasting difference in the way human rights stories are told and heard. In the first season of this podcast, we feature the Philippines, which ranks among the world's deadliest countries for journalists. We hear from local reporters who have faced the Marcos dictatorship in the 70s and 80s, the deadly anti-drugs campaign of the Duterte administration, and challenges such as red-tagging, low pay, and disinformation in the age of social media and AI.

  1. FEB 14

    When romance becomes resistance: The story of the India Love Project

    On this special Valentine’s Day episode of the JHR Podcast, we shine a light on a bold movement defying societal norms in India -- the India Love Project. Launched on Instagram by journalists Priya Ramani, Samar Halarnkar and Niloufer Venkatraman, this initiative documents and celebrates inter-faith, inter-caste, and LGBTQ+ love stories in a country where such relationships often face intense scrutiny and resistance.JHR Executive Director Bill Killorn hosts this episode. He sits down with Priya Ramani to discuss the project's origins, its impact amid rising Hindu nationalism, and how storytelling has become a powerful tool for challenging prejudice and promoting inclusivity. From viral social media posts to an Amazon Prime series, the India Love Project has grown into a beacon of hope and inspiration for couples daring to love beyond cultural constraints.An uplifting conversation about the power of love, the role of journalism in shaping narratives, and why standing up for choice matters now more than ever.

    30 min

  2. JAN 31

    Reporting Under Fire: Journalism in Gaza with Walid Batrawi

    In this powerful episode of the Journalists for Human Rights podcast, host Lisa LaFlamme speaks with veteran Palestinian journalist Walid Batrawi about the immense challenges of reporting from Gaza. With over 30 years of experience, Walid shares firsthand accounts of the dangers journalists face – from targeted attacks to media repression – and the devastating loss of colleagues on the frontlines. He also discusses the Gaza Project, an investigative initiative documenting the killing of journalists in Gaza, and reflects on the future of journalism in the region. A gripping conversation about press freedom, resilience, and the urgent need to protect those who risk everything to report the truth.

    53 min
  3. Fighting for Democracy: Andrei Sannikov on Democracy, Press Freedom, and Human Rights in Belarus

    JAN 24

    Fighting for Democracy: Andrei Sannikov on Democracy, Press Freedom, and Human Rights in Belarus

    In this episode of the Journalists for Human Rights podcast, Belarusian pro-democracy activist, former Deputy Foreign Minister, and 2010 presidential candidate Andrei Sannikov shares his insights on the fight for democracy and press freedom in Belarus. This timely discussion, recorded ahead of the January 26th presidential election, unpacks the enduring challenges posed by Alexander Lukashenko’s authoritarian regime. Joined by JHR’s Janine Devries and Marcus Kolga, Sannikov reflects on his imprisonment following the 2010 elections, the intensified crackdown on independent journalism, and the growing threats faced by those advocating for human rights. The conversation also highlights the vital contributions of exiled journalists, the pivotal role of women in the 2020 protests, and the power of international solidarity in addressing global authoritarianism. With candid observations on the global implications of Belarus’s struggle, Sannikov calls for stronger international leadership and support to champion democratic ideals. This episode offers a powerful exploration of resilience, advocacy, and the unyielding pursuit of a brighter future for Belarus.

    37 min
  4. 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

    JAN 17

    16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

    In this special live-recorded episode of the Journalists for Human Rights (JHR) podcast, Lisa LaFlamme hosts an extraordinary conversation marking the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence. Joined by Hanna Liubakova, a Belarusian journalist and Kiran Nazish, founder of the Coalition for Women in Journalism, this episode explores the increasing violence and targeted attacks against women journalists worldwide. From Hanna’s firsthand account of covering protests in Belarus to Kiran’s insights on documenting and advocating for women journalists in over 145 countries, this discussion delves into the systemic challenges women face and the critical role they play in exposing corruption, inequality and human rights abuses. The episode also highlights the importance of public awareness and international support in protecting press freedom.

    55 min
  5. Syria’s New Chapter: Journalism and Hope

    2024-12-23

    Syria’s New Chapter: Journalism and Hope

    As Syria embarks on a new chapter following the collapse of the Assad regime, journalists and human rights advocates reflect on the nation’s path forward. In this episode, JHR’s President Rachel Pulfer sits down with Zein Almoghraby, JHR's Director of International Programs to discuss the journey of Syrian journalists during the civil war, the impact of media in shaping democracy, and the hope for a future rooted in justice and freedom. JHR’s impactful work with Syrian journalists since 2015. From supporting independent media to amplifying voices in exile, they explore how these efforts have laid the foundation for accountability, democracy, and hope in Syria’s rebuilding process. Discover the resilience of Syrian journalists and the vital role of media in creating a brighter future.

    37 min

  6. 2024-12-19

    A candle in a dark room | 5

    How are Filipino journalists faring under a new administration? As the journalism industry faces news avoidance, distrust from audiences, and decreased reach worldwide, reporters themselves grapple with media closures, low pay, and even threats to their lives. 2024 Nieman Fellow Jaemark Tordecilla and communication consultant Mika Ortega join us in the Season 1 finale to reflect on these challenges and how journalists can still find reason to hope.

    1h 5m

  7. 2024-12-06

    Red-tagged by the government | 4

    Red-tagging is one of the biggest threats Filipino journalists face today. In 2018, the Duterte administration created the National Task Force to End Local Communist Armed Conflict (NTF-ELCAC), which, along with the Anti-Terror Law, has been deployed against government critics, including the media. Len Olea of the National Union of Journalists of the Philippines and Rhea Padilla of the AlterMidya network discuss the dangers of red-tagging, its effects on local reportage, and notable cases of red-tagging in recent years.

    1h 1m

  8. 2024-11-22

    Special episode: Red-tagged and jailed, Frenchie Mae Cumpio has her day in court after 4 years

    Radio and online journalist Frenchie Mae Cumpio was 21 years old when she was arrested by the police who accused her of being part of the Communist movement in the Philippines. She had been reporting on human rights abuses in remote areas in Tacloban City, hundreds of kilometers away from the nation’s capital. After four years, she finally took the witness stand on 11 November to defend herself. Her lawyer Julianne Agpalo talks about the latest development in her case.

    38 min
See All (14)

Ratings & Reviews

5
out of 5
8 Ratings

About

Journalists for Human Rights is an organization that aims to empower journalists and communities in Canada and all over the world, making a lasting difference in the way human rights stories are told and heard. In the first season of this podcast, we feature the Philippines, which ranks among the world's deadliest countries for journalists. We hear from local reporters who have faced the Marcos dictatorship in the 70s and 80s, the deadly anti-drugs campaign of the Duterte administration, and challenges such as red-tagging, low pay, and disinformation in the age of social media and AI.

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