Journalist Files complaint After Online Harassment Following Jean-Marie Le Pen Funeral
A journalist for Le Monde is facing a barrage of online harassment after attending the funeral of Jean-marie Le Pen, the founder of the National Front. Ivanne Trippenbach, a special correspondent for the newspaper, filed a complaint for harassment and cyber threats with the National Center for Combating Online Hate (PNLH).
The accusations stem from Trippenbach’s presence at the funeral on january 11th. She is accused of having entered the church “by force” and “without the knowlege” of the National Rally (RN) and its security. These claims, circulating on social media, were amplified by a post on X by MP Alexandre Allegret-Pilot (union of Rights of the Republic) which read, “Let go. Whoever dies by the sword dies by the sword.”
Trippenbach vehemently denies these accusations, stating that she was subjected to a “violent campaign of harassment on social networks fueled by various falsehoods.” she has received numerous threats and hateful messages, prompting her to seek legal action.Aurélien Rousseau, a deputy from the Place publique, expressed his support for Trippenbach, denouncing Allegret-Pilot’s post as a “call to excite the group” and warning of the potential consequences of such inflammatory rhetoric.
Le Monde has expressed its full solidarity with Trippenbach and her legal action against the online harassment she has endured.
Online Harassment: A Growing Threat to Journalists – An interview with an expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today. The recent incident involving Le Monde journalist Ivanne Trippenbach has sparked a crucial conversation about online harassment targeting journalists. Can you shed some light on the prevalence of this issue?
Expert: Absolutely. Sadly, online harassment of journalists is a growing global concern. Reports like this one [[2]]from Reporters Without Borders reveal that two-thirds of women journalists experience harassment, with a significant portion occurring online. It’s a deeply hostile environment that can have severe consequences for both the individuals targeted and the free flow of information.
Time.news Editor: Ms.Trippenbach’s case appears particularly egregious, with amplified accusations and inflammatory rhetoric online. What are the telltale signs of this kind of organized online harassment?
Expert: It often involves coordinated attacks, rapid dissemination of false information, and the use of abusive language and threats. In Ms. Trippenbach’s case, a politician’s inflammatory comment [[1]]seems to have fueled the fire, highlighting the risky influence of public figures on online discourse. These attacks can easily escalate into a dangerous campaign of intimidation,as we see in this case [[1]].
Time.news Editor: What impact does this have on journalists and thier ability to do their work?
Expert: Online harassment can have a devastating impact on a journalist’s mental health and safety. It can lead to self-censorship, fear of retaliation, and ultimately, a chilling effect on investigative journalism. When journalists are afraid to report certain stories or investigate sensitive topics, it undermines the very foundation of a free and democratic society.
Time.news Editor: What advice would you give to journalists facing online harassment?
Expert: Unfortunately, there is no easy solution.However, it’s crucial for journalists to document every instance of harassment, report it to the platform and the authorities, and seek support from colleagues and organizations specializing in online safety.They can also consider taking legal action, as Ms. Trippenbach has done.
Time.news Editor: What steps can news organizations take to protect their journalists?
Expert: News organizations have a obligation to prioritize the safety of their journalists. This includes providing them with training on online safety, having clear policies in place for dealing with online harassment, and offering emotional support. They can also advocate for stronger legal protections for journalists and push for greater accountability from social media companies.
Time.news Editor: Thank you for your insightful answers. This is clearly a complex issue that requires a multi-faceted approach.
Expert: It’s a challenge we all need to address. Building a safer online environment for journalists is essential for protecting freedom of expression and a functioning democracy.