Now more than ever, it is crucial to be informed and have access to facts. In a world where fake news and conspiracy theories thrive, the veracity and quality of information is under threat. To combat this, journalists must do their job aware of these challenges.
This year, Chinese whistleblowers defied censorship in order to alert the world to the seriousness of the pandemic. For the US election, major American media tirelessly fought against disinformation, which was essential to protect democracy.
Journalists all over the world defend minorities, protect the environment and denounce police violence and corruption. Reporters Without Borders (RSF) defends those that help us understand the world and take action against injustice.
With agency BETC, directed by Vincent Rodella, the production company Birth and the postproduction studio Mathematic, Reporters without Borders is unveiling its new international awareness-raising campaign video entitled #FightForFacts.
The new film shows four examples of situations only journalists can shed light on: a prisoner held in conditions unworthy of human dignity, exhausted migrants, a young woman forced into an unwanted marriage, and rows of bodies of COVID-19 victims lined up on an ice rink. The victims of these harrowing scenes gradually disappear, leaving an empty shot.
The film reminds us of a harsh truth: reality only exists if someone reports it. It also aims to help viewers appreciate journalism’s importance in enabling people to understand issues that are decisive for their future and to take action.
The campaign will be broadcast on the major French and international television channels, as well as on digital and social networks from December 11, 2020.
