Andrea Backhaus is not your typical war reporter. She walks into a room with a warm smile and an energy that radiates passion, even as the word “anger” comes up repeatedly during her interview. Anger at the racism and stereotypes in mainstream media. Anger at the sexism that still defines many newsrooms. And anger at the wars that claim countless lives every day.
Andrea recently joined Wempower’s Behind the Headlines podcast to share her journey as an independent journalist. Originally from Germany, she has spent her career reporting on some of the world’s most dangerous conflicts, from the Arab Spring in Egypt to the war in Ukraine and the ongoing Israel-Palestine crisis.
A Career Shaped by Responsibility
“I never planned to become a war reporter; it just happened,” Andrea explains. After moving to Cairo with two suitcases, she found herself staying for three years, documenting the Arab Spring. “When things escalate, and you’re in the middle of it, you feel a responsibility to stay and bear witness.”
Andrea’s reporting focuses on the humanity behind the headlines. For her, the individuals in war zones are more than just numbers or casualties. They are people with stories worth telling. “German media often simplifies and stereotypes the Middle East. That frustration drove me to want to shape the narrative and share stories that weren’t being told,” she says.
Covering the Stories Others Overlook
Andrea prioritizes underreported areas and post-conflict zones, ensuring that the world’s attention doesn’t completely move on. “It’s vital to stay when the news cycle shifts,” she says. Her reporting from the West Bank at the onset of the Israel-Palestine war exemplifies this commitment to being where the spotlight isn’t.
Navigating a Male-Dominated Field
Being a woman in a field dominated by men comes with unique challenges. Andrea has faced everything from navigating male-dominated hierarchies to concerns about personal safety. “Harassment can happen at any level,” she shares. This reality forces women journalists to be cautious about who they work with, often relying on the advice of other female reporters—when they’re available.
Despite these obstacles, Andrea sees advantages in her perspective as a woman. “Female sources are more likely to open up to me. There’s a shared understanding that helps me tell their stories more authentically.”
Advice for Aspiring Conflict Reporters
During the live podcast, Andrea shared practical tips for aspiring war reporters. From having the right equipment—helmet, vest, and insurance—to learning first aid and conflict context, preparation is key. Her most important advice? “Cover the story, but don’t become the story.”
Andrea also highlighted the importance of addressing mental health. Returning to normal life after covering a conflict zone is challenging, yet this remains a taboo topic in many newsrooms.
Hope for the Future
When asked about her hopes for the future, Andrea envisions a media landscape where male and female war reporters are equally supported and recognized. But above all, she dreams of a world without war. “At my core, I’m just a sensitive person trying to understand why wars happen. And so far, I haven’t found an answer to that.”
Listen to the Full Conversation
Catch the full episode on Behind the Headlines to hear Andrea Backhaus discuss her experiences, challenges, and advice for future journalists. Her story is a powerful reminder of the courage and commitment required to bring untold stories to light.
Listen to the episode on Podbean or Spotify
