Ethics plays a fundamental role in how the media reports on humanitarian crises. It is important that journalists respect the dignity and privacy of those affected, avoiding exploiting their suffering for sensational purposes.
A notable example of this ethic in action was the coverage of the 2010 earthquake in Haiti. International media outlets were criticized for spreading sensationalized images and invading the victims’ privacy by filming in hospitals and refugee camps without their consent. However, there were also examples of journalists working with sensitivity and respect for those affected, focusing on stories of resilience and hope amidst tragedy.