Broadcasting journalists to require training for press pass

Broadcasting Commission (BroadCom) has said that journalists working in the broadcasting sector will only be issued accreditation cards after completing a mandatory training programme.

The new requirement is set out in BroadCom’s Rules on Accreditation of Journalists, which will take effect six months after publication. The commission said the rules were intended to improve standards in the industry, determine the qualifications and experience of broadcast journalists, and compile a public register of accredited media workers.

Press cards will be issued to editors, reporters, presenters, writers, columnists, and photo and video journalists working for television and radio stations. Applicants must hold at least a Maldives Qualifications Authority (MQA) level three certificate in broadcasting, communication or related fields, or have a minimum of three years’ professional experience. They must also not have been convicted of a criminal offence in the past five years.

Accreditation training will cover the broadcasting code of practice, child protection, women’s rights, coverage of disasters and tragedies, reporting on protests and unrest, and political coverage during elections.

Press cards will be valid for five years. They may be cancelled if the holder is convicted of a criminal offence, or revoked or withheld for breaches of the broadcasting code of practice or failure to comply with BroadCom directives.

The commission said it would also compile and publish a register of accredited journalists.