BEIJING, June 20, 2012 /PRNewswire-Asia/ -- International SOS, the world's leading medical and security services company, has joined forces with Xinhua News Agency in Beijing, China, to support the 2012 World Media Summit (WMS) Global Training Program on Reporter's Safety. The program, which this year focuses on the health and safety of journalists working in hostile environments, brings together representatives from leading media organizations around the world.
Media agencies are challenged with protecting the wellbeing of their staff reporting from the front line of conflicts and natural disasters. The program has provided a platform for media institutions from around the world to share information and experiences and further train international journalists to be best prepared for the risks of working in challenging environments. The program will be attended by more than 50 journalists originating from 30 countries, including Afghanistan, Egypt and Cuba. It calls for cooperation between media institutions, government and other professional organizations to promote a dialogue on Duty of Care for journalists working at the frontline of conflicts and disaster.
"Health and safety go hand in hand. The risks to journalists' well-being aren't confined to the hazards of reporting from hostile environments, but often extend to medical issues that prove fatal and commonly involve road traffic accidents. Awareness of the health and safety risks when working in unfamiliar environments, coupled with thorough preparation, are really paramount," said John Williams, Managing Director, International SOS, China.
The 2012 World Media Summit Global Training Program on Reporters' Safety is designed to equip international journalists and media organizations with the information they need to better prepare for the risks ahead. Participants will be trained by representatives from International SOS, Reuters, Al Jazeera, Itar-Tass, Kyodo News, the New York Times and the International Committee of the Red Cross. "We are very proud to be working with Xinhua News Agency to help arm journalists with the information they need to protect themselves and stay safe and healthy wherever their occupation may take them," said Mr. Williams.
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About International SOS
International SOS (www.internationalsos.com) is the world's leading medical & security services company operating from over 700 sites in 76 countries with 10,000 employees, led by 1,100 physicians and 200 security specialists.
Our global services include medical and risk planning, preventative programs, in-country expertise and emergency response for travelers, expatriates and their dependents of over 70 percent of the Fortune 500 companies.
