This series of videos features journalist and media ethics scholar Cathy Otten, human rights lawyer Sherizaan Minwalla, psychotherapist Yusra Al-Kailani and survivor’s rights advocate Shireen. Together, the videos offer practical reflections on informed consent, trauma-informed interviewing, survivor agency, and the impact media exposure can have on survivors’ lives.

In conversation, Shireen and Yusra Al-Kailani explore what safe and ethical media engagement looks like from a survivor’s perspective. Their exchange highlights the importance of informed consent, thoughtful preparation, and ensuring that survivors retain a voice in how their stories are told. The conversation is in English; the 3 videos each has Arabic, Kurdish and English subtitling.

Cathy Otten and Sherizaan Minwalla speak directly to media professionals about the ethical responsibilities involved in interviewing and reporting on survivors of sexual violence. They share how survivors experience the way their stories are gathered and reported, and how journalists can prepare responsibly, approach interviews with care, and reduce the risk of harm, stigma, and retraumatisation. Their 2 videos are in English.

Shireen is a survivor’s rights advocate whose work centres survivors’ perspectives in conversations on ethical media engagement.

Yusra Al-Kailani is a psychotherapist and trauma expert with extensive experience supporting survivors of sexual violence.

Cathy Otten is a journalist and Visiting Assistant Professor in Media Ethics and Journalism at Rutgers University, where she directs the Journalism Initiative on Gender, Peace and Security.

Sherizaan Minwalla is a human rights lawyer with 15 years of experience working in Iraq. She is the founder of Taboo LLC, a global consulting practice focused on human rights, ethics and justice.

Together, theses videos provide practical and survivor-informed guidance for more responsible reporting on sexual violence.