Preparing journalists to work safely in higher-risk environments

Journalists increasingly work in environments where they may encounter civil unrest, organised crime, political instability, hostile crowds or other situations that place their personal safety at risk.

To help prepare media professionals for these challenges, Lazarus Training contributed to a Hostile Environment Awareness (HEA) programme delivered in Kosovo in partnership with the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM).

The programme brought together journalists from across the region to develop the practical skills, confidence and decision-making needed to work safely in challenging operational environments.

The Challenge

Modern journalism often requires reporters to operate in unpredictable situations where conditions can change rapidly.

Preparation is about far more than responding to emergencies. It involves recognising developing threats, planning assignments effectively and making sound decisions before incidents occur.

The Kosovo programme was designed to strengthen these capabilities through practical, scenario-based training.

Our Contribution

Lazarus Training delivered specialist instruction covering the practical skills journalists need when operating in higher-risk environments.

Training included:

• Personal safety and situational awareness
• Dynamic risk assessment
• Assignment planning
• Emergency first aid
• Casualty assessment
• Catastrophic bleeding management
• Communications under pressure
• Decision-making in complex situations
• Practical scenario exercises

The emphasis throughout the programme was on realistic learning that reflected the environments journalists may encounter during domestic and international assignments.

Practical, Scenario-Based Learning

Rather than relying solely on classroom teaching, participants worked through practical scenarios designed to encourage critical thinking, teamwork and effective decision-making under pressure.

This approach helps journalists develop not only technical knowledge but also the confidence to apply those skills when faced with real operational challenges.

Working with International Partners

Lazarus Training was proud to support this programme alongside the U.S. Agency for Global Media (USAGM), helping strengthen the safety capability of journalists through practical, professional training.

Partnerships such as this demonstrate the importance of investing in journalist safety before deployments take place, ensuring reporters are better prepared to manage risk while continuing to deliver independent journalism.

Why It Matters

The Kosovo programme forms part of the wider Lazarus Journalist Safety Programme, which supports journalists and media organisations operating in challenging environments around the world.

Lessons learned from Kosovo continue to inform the development of our:

• FIRM – First Response & International Risk Management
• Hostile Environment Awareness Training (HEAT)
• Medical Training for Journalists
• Assignment Risk Assessment Workshops

Our aim is always the same: to help journalists recognise risk early, make informed decisions and return home safely.

Learn More

The Kosovo programme was featured by the U.S. Agency for Global Media.

Read the original article on the USAGM website to learn more about the programme and its objectives.