October 21, 2013

Recently, Haris Tarin, Director of MPAC's Washington, DC, Office, spoke on a panel at the International Center for Journalists (ICFJ) conference. The annual event brings together reporters, producers and other executives in the media industry to address issues impacting media coverage of various issues and events.

One of the main sessions of the conference focused on international media coverage of Islam and Muslims. The industry experts wanted to assess how the coverage of Islam and Muslims in media outlets impacts conflict areas.

Tarin was the featured speaker in the session that looked at the role of media coverage on issues impacting the Muslim community. He spoke about the need for journalists and reporters to go beyond covering just the sensational news that focuses on linking Muslims to extremism and terrorism. He also challenged the industry to look at how to comprehensively report on Muslim majority countries. 

ICFJ works to advance quality journalism worldwide. Their hands-on programs combine the best professional practices with new technologies. They believe that responsible journalism empowers citizens and holds governments accountable. Over the past 28 years, ICFJ has worked with more than 75,000 professional and citizen journalists and media managers from 180 countries.