Previously published in Examiner
Women have scored a recognition bonus in the world of journalism. The International Federation of Journalists has announced the endorsement of the new secretary general of the organization who happens to be a female journalist by the name of Elizabeth Costa. Elizabeth will be replacing Aiden White who has served in this post for 24 years.
Elizabeth Costa has championed union rights and freedom of the press for journalism in Latin America. She has been a driving force behind the international solidarity in the Brazilian Federation of Journalists’ Associations (FENAJ).
Elizabeth worked for over 20 years as a television journalist in Rio de Janeiro and São Paulo. She also became the first female president for the International Federation of Journalists in 1998 – 2004. Her appointment as secretary general will give her another first, as she will become the first secretary general of the International Federation of Journalists coming from outside of Europe.
Elizabeth Costa states, ” I look forward to implementing the resolutions from the World Congress in Cadiz and to further strengthening the reach of the IFJ as a global voice of journalists.”
The former secretary general, Aiden White says that the challenges for journalists are intensifying especially in the Middle East and hopes the organization and its work will be in good hands.
For more information, please contact IFJ on + 32 2 235 22 07
The IFJ represents more than 600.000 members in 125 countries
Concerning Montreal and journalism
In 2003, Aiden White wrote to the Head office of The International Federation of Journalism in Brussels, “Over recent years Montreal has been at the very heart of a struggle for fundamental rights in journalism against the devastating power of ruthless owners who appear to care little for the principles of freedom and democracy which were the driving force of John’s unionism. The battles against CanWest and the Montreal local’s defence of victimized colleagues illustrate a rare brand of fighting spirit and determination that comes from dedicated and bold leadership. “
Montreal as also struggles for international freedom of the press and for visibility of female journalists.
Reporter Sans Frontières Canada Is located in Montreal at:
180, boul René-Lévesque E
Montreal, QC H2X 1N6
(514) 521-41 Sources embedded in the text
