Digtial Media is now more than ever an agent for social change – just take a look at recent events in the Middle East and North Africa.And Amnesty International are at the forefront of recognising and encouraging media channels – in particular digital media channels – to report human rights abuses and campaigners’ victories against those abuses, with a view to encouraging social change.
Which is why I’m very proud to support the Amnesty International Digital Media Awards, and would encourage anyone who can, to enter the awards this year (the deadline is 1 March).
And encourage anyone who has seen some incredible digital media content this year which supports Amnesty’s objectives, to persuade the journalist/blogger/site to enter.
Last year I was on the judging panel which saw The Guardian nominated for their coverage of the death of Ian Tomlinson, and Duckrabbit‘s excellent photography-led website focusing on people in Eastern Congo. The winner was the FT, for their challenging reporting on the almost-feudal petitioning system in China.
But the award doesn’t need to go to an established international media outlet. Back in 2009 it was won by a a little known website called Wikileaks…So if you know any sites – particulalry smaller sites (Amnesty do have a sponsorship fund to cover entry costs if required) – which you think could/should enter, please pass this link on to them and encourage them to do so.Amnesty International Media Awards
[disclosure: I’m a member, and was one of last year’s judges for their Digital Media Awards, and am currently on a steering panel for the Awards]