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Mrs Josette Barry, Bernadette Bah and Elysée Yao during the round table (Photo : Yacouba Soro/US Embassy)

Ivorian Women Journalists Discuss Their Profession on World Press Freedom Day

To commemorate World Press Freedom Day, the American Embassy in Côte d’Ivoire invited on May 3, 2007 members of two female journalist associations to speak on the topic: “Women in the Media: Problems, Promises, Profession.” The round table discussion was led by two experienced and respected reporters from two major Ivorian dailies, Fraternite Matin and Soir Info. 

Two dozen women journalists – veteran correspondents, cub reporters and editors from the print media, as well as radio program directors and television producers – engaged in a dynamic and wide ranging discussion of their profession, past and present.  Encouragement, understanding, and good advice were exchanged throughout the program, and everyone felt the program left them the better and wiser. 

Older reporters recalled their experiences in the 80s’ and 90s’ as they broke down gender barriers in the press room, while their younger counterparts raised questions and concerns about work and home, the often conflicting personal and professional demands they have to deal with in balancing assignments and family needs.