Women’s Football World Cup and the Ethics of Journalism

For many reasons, Morocco’s opening match against Germany in the Women’s World Cup which took place earlier this week was monumental. This is Morocco’s debut at the tournament, and they are the first Arab and North African team to qualify. Moreover, defender Nouhaila Benzina will make history when she becomes the first player to wear a Hijab at a major women’s football tournament.?

But instead of highlighting these historic firsts in the pre-match press conference, an unnamed journalist from the BBC World Service posed unethical questions to Morocco’s captain Ghizlane Chebbak. “In Morocco, it’s illegal to have a homosexual relationship. Do you have any gay players in your squad and what’s life like for them in Morocco?”. In Morocco, same-sex relationships are illegal, punishable by three years in prison and a fine. A Fifa official intervened: “Sorry this is a very political question” and asked reporters to stick to football-related questions. The journalist insisted on a response from a shocked and bewildered Chebbak, pressing ahead; “It is not political, it is about people. Please allow her to answer”.?

The BBC has since apologised for the “inappropriate” question posed by its journalist, but the incident raises wider questions around the ethics of journalism when pursuing a story.?

The media landscape is changing - and rapidly. Driven by the rise in social media and a societal desire for instant information, traditional media companies are struggling to remain profitable and relevant. In pursuit of headlines which sell, the standard and rigour which once characterised traditional journalism is slipping.?

Journalists must practise their profession with care, and ensure that their reporting does not endanger individuals. In this case, the BBC journalist exposed Chebbak and her teammates to unnecessary harm and could have had serious consequences back home.

As sport becomes increasingly politicised, journalists must respect the boundaries which athletes set. Athletes who use their platform for activism are to be respected and admired but it is not for the journalists to decide.?