Greece signs memorandum for war correspondent safety

Greek authorities and media organizations have signed a memorandum of cooperation to enhance the safety of journalists operating in conflict zones, natural disaster areas, and humanitarian crises. The agreement involves the Ministry of National Defense, the General Staff of National Defense, the General Secretariat of Communication and Information, the Athens Daily Newspaper Editors' Union (ESHEA), the Union of Magazine and Electronic Press Journalists (ESPT), the ESHEA Educational Foundation, and the Hellenic Red Cross.

The initiative aims to establish an organized program for specialized training, practical preparation, assessment, and certification. A central goal is to ensure that no journalist undertakes high-risk assignments without undergoing necessary prior training. The curriculum will cover risk management, situational awareness, operational decision-making, and personal protection protocols. The program will utilize the expertise of the International Center for the Protection and Training of Journalists (ICSTJ) and Aristotle University of Thessaloniki.