Regulatory agency cautions TV stations against broadcasting disturbing, distressing images (Video)

The Independent Broadcasting Authority (IBA) has cautioned all television stations against airing disturbing and distressing images, citing concerns over the potential harm to viewers. The Authority noted that some news bulletins had broadcast raw or graphic footage of accident victims, death, violence and other traumatic scenes in a manner that, it said, compromised good taste and decency. IBA Director for Corporate Communication, Katendi Wandi, issued the caution in a statement on Wednesday, noting that while viewer discretion warnings may be provided, these are often insufficient to prevent emotional or psychological harm, particularly to children and other vulnerable audiences.

Wandi urged television stations to exercise strict editorial judgment by avoiding graphic images, intense violence, explicit content, and repetitive distressing footage. She recommended protecting the privacy and dignity of victims, suggesting the use of long shots instead of close-ups to reduce the impact on viewers. She further advised stations to blur or crop images of injured persons or bodies when editorially justified and in the public interest.

“This guidance is in accordance with Section 5 of the IBA Act of 2002, which mandates the Authority to provide advisory opinions on broadcasting standards and ethical conduct,” Wandi stated. She also reminded broadcasters to comply with Sections 1 and 2 of the IBA Standard Operating Procedures, which require the protection of audiences from harmful or offensive content. “The IBA urges all stations to strengthen internal editorial controls and ensure full compliance to maintain a safe, respectful and responsible viewing environment,” Wandi added. This material, and other digital content on this website, may not be reproduced, published, broadcast, rewritten or redistributed in whole or in part without prior express permission from ZAMBIA MONITOR.