WASHINGTON — Journalists James Foley, Steven Sotloff and Peter Theo Curtis all had one thing in common when they were captured by Islamic militants in Syria, the title “freelance journalist.”
The role of freelancers, who make a living by selling individual stories, photos and video to multiple outlets, has expanded across conflict zones in recent years with the spread of technology and social media, which provides a ready canvas for their work. Some are cautious and well-trained; Others take major risks. And they often lack the institutional support staff journalists receive if they get into trouble in a conflict zone.
“There is no question that people with less experience and less support are venturing out into conflict zones and seeking to make their name as journalists,” said Joel Simon, the executive director of the New York-based Committee to Protect Journalists.
While freelance journalists make important contributions, those who go into danger without a contract and the support of an established organization can face immense challenges, said Simon, who worked as a freelancer himself in Latin America. If freelancers are injured or detained, for example, it can take longer for word to get out because no one is monitoring their whereabouts — and early intervention can be crucial to their survival, he said.