Ramallah – 23 April 2025 The Palestinian Center for Development and Media Freedoms (MADA) organized a specialized workshop titled “Safe Space”, focusing on psychological first aid for journalists. The workshop brought together 50 media professionals and workers in the media sector as part of the Center’s ongoing efforts to promote psychological and professional well-being within the Palestinian media environment, particularly in light of the increasing challenges and pressures journalists face, especially in conflict zones.

The workshop aimed to equip participating journalists and media professionals with skills in psychological first aid, emotional release techniques, and methods for coping with stress and trauma resulting from field coverage. The program featured interactive training sessions and group psychological support activities, led by mental health specialist ISMAIL ABU ZIADEH.

In her opening remarks, SHIREEN AL-KHATIB, Acting Director of MADA, emphasized that the workshop reflects the Center’s commitment to providing a safe and supportive environment for Palestinian journalists and enabling them to continue fulfilling their professional and humanitarian mission free from psychological distress. She noted that supporting mental health is no less important than ensuring physical safety.

Mental health expert and trainer ISMAIL ABU ZIADEH introduced the concept and principles of psychological first aid within the context of the demanding field of journalism—a profession that strives to effect change by reporting painful stories and events capable of transforming the world.

He also addressed the violations and dangers journalists may face while covering conflicts, highlighting the physical risks they endure in pursuit of the truth, which is often the first casualty of war. He stressed the importance of recognizing situations where it becomes necessary to cease coverage in order to protect oneself.

Additionally, ABU ZIADEH outlined the optimal method for conducting rapid assessments in cases of fatigue or trauma stemming from reporting in conflict zones, especially in Palestine, where the journalist has increasingly become both the story and the breaking news.

The workshop was met with strong engagement from participants, who underscored the importance of such interventions and the need for them to become an integral part of the media protection and support system in Palestine. At the conclusion of the workshop, certificates were distributed to all attendees.

It is worth noting that this workshop is part of the project “Psychological First Aid: Supporting the Rights of Media Workers to Access Mental Health Support”, funded by the Consulate General of France in Jerusalem.