On Assignment: A Guide to Reporting in Dangerous Situations

In the early months of 2002, Wall Street Journalreporter Daniel Pearl was abducted and executed by his captors while pursuing a story about Islamic militants in Pakistan. The kidnapping—which came only weeks after eight reporters were killed covering the conflict in Afghanistan and a little more than one year before 11 journalists died covering the war in Iraq between March 19 and April 9, when Baghdad fell — was a terrible reminder for journalists around the world of their vulnerability.

With this handbook, we hope to give journalists and media managers a basic overview of security issues. Readers will find contact information for many valuable resources, as well as suggested readings. While some topics are covered in depth, others involve specific skills that can only be developed through comprehensive training. This report also includes information to help news gatherers obtain training, equipment, and insurance policies.

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