July 1, 2009
TV Channel Management Must Show Sensitivity in Sexual Harassment Case in Pakistan
The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) calls on Dunya TV channel in Pakistan to demonstrate its commitment to promoting a harassment-free working environment after female broadcaster Maheen Usmani resigned in protest against the attitude of top level management staff on June 30.
According to Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists (PFUJ), an IFJ affiliate, Usmani stated in a letter to the Director (Human Resources) of Dunya TV, her erstwhile employers, that she has “no confidence in the impartiality and fairness” of the committee formed to investigate charges of workplace harassment she had made.
Usmani reportedly called for an independent inquiry committee comprising senior people from within the company as well as external representatives to be formed to investigate claims of sexual harassment in the workplace.
“We are aware that women have been a growing presence in the Pakistan print and electronic media in recent times and have contributed richly to the rapid growth of its reach and public credibility”, said IFJ General Secretary Aidan White.
“Media management need to acknowledge and honour this contribution by ensuring that at the minimum, both men and women are equally able to work within a safe and respectful professional environment “.
The IFJ stands in full support of the PFUJ in this case and endorses its argument that an independent committee cannot contain people directly involved in the allegations.
“We will follow this case closely, since as the PFUJ informs us, it involves not merely the profession of journalism, but the safeguards that all working women in the country can rely upon”.
For further information contact IFJ Asia-Pacific on +612 9333 0919
The IFJ represents over 600,000 journalists in 120 countries
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Secretary General
PAKISTAN FEDERAL UNION OF JOURNALISTS
12-Nazimuddin Road, F-6/1,
Islamabad, Pakistan.
Phone Office +92(0)51 2870220-1
Facsimile +92(0)51 2870223
Cellular +92(0)300 8665523
http://www.pfuj.info
