Addis Abeba — Media sensitivity in the use of language and images of the disabled is of considerable significance to show the dignity and respect this section of the society deserves. Failure to do that would reinforce common myths and discrimination in the society, the Ethiopian Center for Disabilities Development (ECDD) disclosed at a consultative workshop held at MN International Hotel on media strategy to promote the equality of people with disabilities here on Thursday.

Persons with disabilities do not appear in many media outlets frequently and when they do they are rarely portrayed as persons with opinions on news and topical issues, said Yetnebersh Nigussie, Programme Manager of ECDD said at the workshop, and went on to add, when they are interviewed it is mostly on disability issues. Or they will be talked about with pity or with astonishment because they have managed to do something "brave" in spite of their disabilities.

Over 8 million persons with disabilities exist in Ethiopia accounting for 10 percent of the total population. Proper reporting helps create awareness and reduce the discrimination against this section of the society. They often face discrimination and are excluded from schools, work opportunities and health services. As long as this large group of people is invisible, the inequalities experienced by them will remain largely unknown to the general public, Yetnebersh said.

According to her, lack of knowledge with regards to persons with disabilities perpetuates discrimination. Also, the persons with disabilities themselves will not get the information they need about services available to them and improvements in national policies and programs.

To remedy this situation, the media need to be guided by key principles including: putting the person at centre stage, not the disability; letting people have their own voice; avoiding common stereotypes; employing human rights approach.

In developing countries, being made aware of services and opportunities may be an important first step to enable them actively take part in activities of the society. Media initiatives and journalists can help people feel less isolated, while at the same time challenge negative stereotypes in communities.

Disability is a condition caused by accident, trauma, genetics or diseases which may limit a person's mobility, hearing, vision, speech or mental functions.

The workshop was organized by ENDAN in collaboration with the Federation of Ethiopian National Association of Person with Disabilities (FENAPD) and the International Labor Organization (ILO).