The playing field has changed dramatically after the military coup and the current
heightened security situation requires new training modules. Delivering updated
training modules to journalists is difficult due to their uneven geographic and
infrastructural distribution, compounded by the difficulties of reaching journalists in
conflict zones and securing access to journalists within Myanmar. Organising inperson training is risky and journalists might not necessarily see the direct benefits of
following digital security training.
Additionally, as discussed above, an overly positivist approach, wherein technologyoriented solutions are seen as central to increasing journalists’ security, is not in line
with journalists’ experiences on the field. The belief that journalists should entirely
migrate to secure communication channels overlooks the multi-platform nature of
their communication practices. A total migration to such channels would disconnect
journalists from the relational networks crucial to both their professional and personal
lives.
Beyond individual technological savviness, journalists need social and mental
savviness to navigate physical inspections, as well as organisational support from
media houses to ensure their protection. Designing more holistic security training
materials wherein both the physical and the digital aspects are addressed remains a
challenge.
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