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Should Correspondent Liu Leave the Quake-hit Area?
    2008-06-05 14:52:39     CRIENGLISH.com

Correspondent Liu Feifeng arrived in Heishui County, one of the quake-hit areas, on May 27, intending to help the quake victims. However, he later found that people became preoccupied by assisting him in reporting, by driving him around and welcoming him. Feeling guilty for holding up rescue efforts and consuming limited resources without helping the victims much, Liu decided to give up reporting from Heishui. Liu said leaving was his way of helping. Was this a responsible and ethical decision? We'll look into the discussion surrounding Liu's decision in today's Media Spin.

A reporter for the Dahe Daily says that reporting on the ground in a disaster zone is by no means easy. With determination and courage, reporters run into these areas as many others run away. The writer criticizes Liu for his inability to report on the disaster and reject unnecessary help and ceremony. A confused reporter brings nothing but trouble to a disaster area, so Liu was right in leaving.

A commentary in the Procurator Daily pays tribute to Liu. In order to not hinder the relief effort, Liu gave up the opportunity for personal gain and left Heishui County.


Between conscience and responsibility, he chose the former. Journalists have done a good job overall in covering the quake, but their coverage has not been perfect. One reporter disguised himself as a victim to into a relief helicopter to report. Some reporters make the victims recall the quake again and again. Some intentionally exaggerate grief in their reporting. However, none of these reporters have publicly reflected on their behavior. In contrast, Liu Feifeng's introspection has taught us that sometimes, turning away is the best way to help.

A reader letter in the Legal Mirror praises Liu as a compassionate man who respects people more than his job. Another reader suggests that guidelines for reporters, volunteers, and rescue workers should be set up to face emergencies more efficiently in the future.

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