On Wednesday 14/12 InterMediaKT organised the event “Internet Media Literacy, migration and the role of online media journalism: good practices and dangers”, as part of the project #MyStory: Media, Migrants and Refugees, which aims to apply media literacy education in shaping the ways in which the migrant crisis is presented in the media and in which it is perceived by EU citizens.

The workshop, which took place in Patras, Greece, brought together a round table of media representatives, migrant organisations, local stakeholders and international institutions: International Organization for Migration (IOM Greece), Hellenic Open University -PRESS Project, Hellenic Red Cross, Praksis, Municipality of Andravida-Kyllini, Ionian Channel, Solomon, JAJ: Journalists for journalism, OneEurope , OneEurope Greece & Cyprus, Media Literacy Initiative and UP FM – University of Patras Radio.

Participants initially expressed their views on the current situation as well as the representation of migrants and refugees by the media. Particular emphasis was given to the potential spread of hate speech via online and social media. The later half of the event was devoted to an exchange of views on good practices and recommendations for the proper implementation of media literacy.

The outcomes of the workshop were built around the pillars of education, collaboration, empowerment and inclusion. The role of education is essential, addressing interactively all, citizens, migrants and refugees. The participants also highlighted the role and the contribution of volunteering and the achievements of the volunteers in regards to the refugee crisis. In relation to migrants and refugees, the focus was put on assisting them in the process of learning the Greek language, in order to facilitate their integration.

A healthy integration, though, requires clear and precise mapping of refugee- migration stories, using valid data, including the correct use of terminology and the separation of the terms immigrant-migrant and refugee. Especially in relation to media literacy, journalism ethics and accuracy were the main components to be praised.

Finally, the flow of the debate underlined the prevalent need for open dialogue and substantial cooperation between all stakeholders; the media, civil society, NGOs and international organisations, a cooperation which was also one of the major objectives of both the workshop and the project overall.

See below a news report on the event from Ionian Channel News and some tweets from the event.

 

The above tweet in English: “Article by @pelopnews on the results of the event “Media literacy & Refugee crisis.”

 

In English: @The #IOMGreece presented the online communication strategy in the event “Media literacy & Refugee crisis”.”

 

In English: “Post-event article of #patrasevents.gr for the event “Media literacy & Refugee crisis”.”

In English: “InterMediaKT’s representative presenting live the event “Media literacy & Refugee crisis” during the afternoon talk show “Hamili Ptisi” of Ionian Channel”