What are the missing data narratives that the media hasn’t yet covered?
Peter: In my opinion, the humanitarian impact of the war hasn’t been covered. We aren’t showing the impact on a local basis in specific Ukrainian cities. We aren’t seeing stories explaining the problems with access to fresh water, infrastructure damage and how the daily life of ordinary people has changed during the war.
Claudia: One of the narratives missing for us is how humanitarian access improves. It is quite easy to report on the damaged infrastructure of a bridge if destroyed, but it is not so easy to track when things have improved.
Finally, what tips and advice can you give data journalists new to covering this conflict with data?
Dada: Be sure to triple-check everything and always check where your data source has come from. Many newsrooms still don’t know how to use satellite imagery and need to learn how to do this and verify videos and images using OSINT skills. It has also become very difficult to maintain objectivity. Many people report on stories that involve picking out certain information to confirm a particular point of view. Always try to be objective if you consider yourself a journalist.
Peter: Try to familiarise yourself with local, historical and cultural contexts when covering any conflict. This can help your data storytelling and ensure your reporting is relevant and doesn’t misrepresent what is happening on the ground. |