“I Was Just Joking.” Power Does Not Give You the Right.

“I was just joking.” How often have we heard phrases like “Don’t take it personally” or “You have no sense of humor”? Too often, these words are used to excuse sexism, harassment, abuse of power, and the culture of silence that still shapes many newsrooms.

This June, we are running the 10-day campaign “I Was Just Joking” to raise awareness about sexual harassment and violence against women journalists and media workers, and to encourage safer, more respectful workplaces. The campaign is part of the regional Women in Media project, bringing together partners from Croatia, Slovenia, Serbia, and Bosnia and Herzegovina to prevent and combat sexual harassment in the media sector.

Our regional research, based on surveys, in-depth interviews, and comparative analysis, revealed that one in two women working in the media has experienced some form of harassment. Newsrooms were identified as the primary setting where harassment occurs, driven by precarious employment, gender discrimination, and unequal power relations.

Following the research, we developed the Rulebook—a practical resource for journalists, editors, and media organisations. It provides clear recommendations on preventing harassment, responding to complaints, and creating safer and more inclusive workplaces.

Throughout the campaign, we will share real stories, research findings, and public discussions to show that harassment is not a private issue or a joke—it is a professional, social, and democratic challenge. Every newsroom should be a safe workplace where dignity and respect are protected.

We call on media organisations, editors, journalists, trade unions, institutions, and the public to support this initiative, adopt the Rulebook, and help build a media sector free from harassment. A joke stops being a joke the moment it takes away someone’s safety, dignity, or right to work without fear.

Read the full article here.