Media Sector Training on CBRN Safety and Security (Astana - September 16)

The media training on CBRN Safety and Security held in Astana on September 16, brought together 17 media representatives. The training was attended by representatives of local media organizations from two countries – Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan. 

The training session was conducted in a highly interactive and smooth manner. The trainer Mark Michel Blum provided an overview of what is meant by Weapons of Mass Destruction (WMD), explaining the nature of nuclear, biological and chemical weapons, their effects, and the measures that can be taken for self-protection. He also addressed issues of arms control and non-proliferation regime.

The second part of the training generated particularly intensive and dynamic engagement among the journalists, as it focused on practical, profession-specific aspects. The trainer explored the topic of responsible reporting on WMD-related issues, addressing the balance between freedom of the press and public safety, as well as key principles of effective risk communication for media work in the context of CBRN events. Media representatives actively posed questions and took part in lively discussions with the expert and actively shared their perspectives and experience.

At the end of the training participants completed evaluation forms covering the training process, content, trainer and overall results. The training participants were also awarded certificates.