Transparency International Pakistan Hosts Capacity Building Workshop for Journalists on Climate Governance

MULTAN: In a bid to strengthen climate reporting and promote transparency, Transparency International Pakistan organized a Capacity Building Workshop for Journalists titled “Climate Governance & Journalism: Enhancing Informed Reporting and Oversight for Climate Action” on Thursday. The workshop targeted journalists from climate-vulnerable districts of Punjab, equipping them with enhanced skills in climate change reporting and fostering greater civil society participation in climate governance.
The session provided participants with practical tools and insights to improve oversight in climate action and promote transparency. The role of media in driving informed climate discourse and public accountability was a central theme throughout the day.
Badar Alam, CEO of the Policy, Research Institute for Equitable Development (PRIED), led discussions on “Understanding Climate Change and Prioritizing Climate Action” and “Tools and Strategies for Impactful Climate Reporting.” He emphasized the role of the media in ensuring accurate, impactful reporting that fosters public awareness and effective climate governance.
Kashif Ali, Executive Director of Transparency International Pakistan, presented on the “Climate Governance Framework” and how journalists can ensure transparency and accountability in climate action. He stressed the need for responsible use of climate funding and resources, highlighting the importance of journalists’ oversight role.
Syed Hussain Haider, a Global Integrity Expert and Consultant, addressed the need for greater transparency and accountability in climate action. He pointed out that while Pakistan has several laws in place, better implementation with integrity is necessary to protect communities most vulnerable to climate change.
Muhammad Shafiq, Assistant Registrar of the Punjab Information Commission, delivered a session on the “Right to Information and its Application in Climate Finance.” He explained how the Punjab Transparency & Right to Information Act 2013 empowers journalists by providing access to crucial climate finance data, enabling thorough investigations and reporting on climate-related issues.
Nasreen Memmon, Project Coordinator at Transparency International Pakistan, provided an overview of the workshop and highlighted the organization’s role in promoting transparent governance, particularly in the climate sector.
The workshop engaged participants in group activities aimed at identifying climate mitigation and adaptation strategies for various sectors. Journalists shared their field experiences, brainstormed innovative reporting approaches, and discussed the role of the media in shaping public perceptions and policy around climate change.
This training enhanced the participants’ ability to report on climate issues, enabling them to contribute meaningfully to the ongoing discourse on transparency and accountability in Pakistan’s climate action efforts.