Pakistani Journalists Receive Training to Tackle Ageism in Media
FAID’s Lahore Training Encourages Ethical and Inclusive Reporting on Older People
Lahore, April 9, 2025 — The Foundation for Ageing and Inclusive Development (FAID), in collaboration with the Pakistan Federal Union of Journalists – Workers, successfully conducted a one-day training session for media professionals titled “Media for All Ages: Shaping Positive Narratives on Ageing” at Park Lane Hotel, Lahore.
This timely initiative aimed to build the capacity of journalists to better understand the realities of Pakistan’s ageing population and report with dignity, empathy, and accuracy. More than 30 journalists from Leaders Media Network and other Urdu and English media newspapers and channels took part in the workshop.
“Media has the power to reshape public perception and influence policy,”
said Faisal Hussain, Communications & Reporting Officer at FAID, in his welcome remarks.
“By telling the stories of older people with respect and balance, journalists can help dismantle stereotypes and create a more age-inclusive society.”
The Need for Inclusive Reporting
Pakistan is currently home to around 13.5 million people aged 60 and above—a figure expected to rise to 8.5% of the population by 2030 and nearly 13% by 2050. Yet, older people are often portrayed narrowly in media—frequently as dependent, isolated, or neglected—especially during national holidays and crises. This training aimed to challenge such limited narratives.
In an interactive session, Faisal Hussain discussed how ageism shows up in media, from harmful language to stereotypical visuals.
“Respectful reporting begins with the right words and images,” he noted. “We must move away from portraying older people as passive and instead show their contributions and strength.”
A total of 34 journalists attended the training (19 male and 12 female participants), showing strong interest in building capacity on age-sensitive reporting. Participants engaged in group discussions, shared field experiences.
The training concluded with a certificate distribution ceremony and a collective commitment from participants to take forward the message of inclusive, rights-based storytelling.
This training is part of FAID’s broader effort to build a network of “media champions” who advocate for the rights and dignity of older people. As Pakistan’s population continues to age, inclusive and responsible journalism will be essential for shaping supportive attitudes, policies, and systems.
