IAWRT conference kicks off in Kuala Lumpur

Monday 21 Nov 2011
Today saw the launch of the 34th biennial conference of the International Association of Women in Radio and Television (IAWRT) in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

The IAWRT is a global network of media practitioners and the conference gathers broadcast professionals to share their strategies towards the development of women in the media.

This year’s conference is being attended by 80 participants from about 27 countries. Many of them have been actively engaged in projects to address women’s issues in their respective countries. These issues – which are reflected in the conference sessions – include women reporting in conflict zones, trafficking, female genital mutilation, enforced disappearances, violence against women and gender issues in broadcasting.

Participants will also be engaged in a documentary master class on human trafficking, genital excision and disappeared persons. There will also be an investigative journalism workshop, documentary screenings and a debate.

The conference was launched today by Malaysia’s Deputy Minister of Information, Communication and Culture, Joseph Salang.

During the conference period, the IAWRT will also announce the winners of its Awards of Excellence on 23 November. The awards celebrate outstanding documentaries that make a difference to the lives of women.

The three-day conference, which is co-hosted by the Tun Abdul Razak Institute of Broadcasting and Information (IPPTAR) and the ABU, ends on 24 November.