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IN THIS ISSUE
• Radio as a peacebuilding tool
• Dispatches from Cameroon, India,
Colombia, Nigeria, Pakistan
• PJ Bookshelf: New arrivals
Jake Lynch: Conflict frames PJ discussions in
South Korea
A publication of the Center for Global Peace Journalism at Park University Vol. 8 No. 1- April 2019
April 2019 April 2019
Contents PJ can contribute to defusing Korean tensions
3 Korea 15 Costa Rica By Jake Lynch
Can PJ reduce tensions? UPeace launches new degree “Do not demonise North Korea. De-
mons do not negotiate. If there are no
The Peace Journalist is a semi-
6 India 16 Nigeria negotiations, there will be war.” These
were the words of Chung-in Moon to
annual publication of the Center Gandhi: Original peace journalist On social media, elections, peace journalists who gathered for the Korea South
for Global Peace Journalism at Park
University in Parkville, Missouri. The 8 Missouri, USA 18 Worldwide Press Foundation journalism confer-
ence in Seoul, in October, as diplomat-
Korean
diplomat
Peace Journalist is dedicated to dis- Radio as peacebuilding tool Peace Journalism bookshelf ic efforts were being stepped up for a Chung-in
seminating news and information
for teachers, students, and 10 Colombia 19 USA second summit meeting between Kim
Jong Un and President Donald Trump.
Moon
addresses
practitioners of PJ. Photojournalism aids peace Shedding violent words aids peace the 2018
Moon is a sage old hand of arms
Submissions are welcome from all.
We are seeking shorter submissions
11 Cameroon 22 Rep. of Georgia control talks. A current member of the
South Korean government’s advisory
KPF
journalism
Journalists evaluate peace efforts Women in peace journalism committee on diplomatic strategy, conference
(500 words) detailing peace journal- in Seoul.
ism projects, classes, proposals, etc.
We also welcome longer submis-
23 DR Congo he previously served as Ambassador
for International Security, combining
Community radio and peace these posts with his career in univer-
sions (1000-1500 words) about
sities. His advice is timely, given the
peace or conflict sensitive journal-
findings of new research on Austra-
ism projects or programs, as well as
lian media and how they refer to the
academic works from the field. We Democratic People’s Republic(1). In
12 Colombia
do NOT seek general submissions coverage from two major newspapers
about peace projects, but are in- and the public broadcaster, the ABC,
stead focused only on articles with What would it take, to change the story, which was being widely aired
Community radio, peacebuilding North Korea was usually described as tenor of international coverage? elsewhere, but Hancocks advised cau-
a strong, central media angle.
13 New Mexico, USA 24 Pakistan
rogue, secretive, totalitarian or evil, Restraint, for one: CNN’s Seoul cor- tion, given that no firm evidence was
with its leader “often referred to as respondent Paula Hancocks, who also available to support it.
Deadlines: March 3 (April edition); a ruthless psychopath.” Dominant
Seminar: Social media and peace Media and peace conference spoke at the conference, recalled how
September 3 (October edition). metaphors tended to be conflictual, she successfully argued against the What can the Peace Journalism
What is Peace Journalism?
framing the country as “a military network running a story on claims playbook contribute? How can read-
Editor: Steven Youngblood, Director, threat [and] unpredictable, irrational ers and audiences be prompted and
that Kim had removed one of his rela-
Center for Global Peace Journalism, and ruthless.” As the researchers com- equipped to consider and value nonvi-
Peace Journalism is when editors and reporters make choices that improve the tives, fallen from government favour,
Park University ment, the pattern is typical, and not by feeding him to a pack of dogs. Edi- olent responses to the still-unresolved
Proofreading: Prof. Carol Getty prospects for peace. These choices, including how to frame stories and care- just in Australia. tors in Atlanta had been keen on the conflict on the Korean peninsula, with
fully choosing which words are used, create an atmosphere conducive to peace
all its potential dangers?
Contact/Social Media: and supportive of peace initiatives and peacemakers, without compromising
the basic principles of good journalism. (Adapted from Lynch/McGoldrick, Jake Lynch divides his time between Australia, where he is Associate Pro- Look past slogans from both ‘sides’ to
steve.youngblood@park.edu
Peace Journalism). Peace Journalism gives peacemakers a voice while making fessor of Peace and Conflict Studies at the University of Sydney, and Oxford, focus on the goals of the conflict par-
Twitter-@Peace Journ
peace initiatives and non-violent solutions more visible and viable. where he writes historical novels, acts in amateur theatricals and runs a ties, for one. The Korean war of 1950-
Facebook-Peace Journalism group
A number of valuable peace journalism resources, including resource local book group. Previously, Jake enjoyed a twenty-year career in journal- 53 has never been declared officially
Center for Global Peace ism, with spells as a political correspondent for Sky News, and the Sydney
Journalism, Park University packets and online links, can be found at www.park.edu/peacecenter. over. The Koreas are separated by a
correspondent for the Independent, culminating in a role as a BBC World so-called Demilitarised Zone (DMZ)
Center for Global Peace Journalism
8700 NW River Park Dr TV presenter. For his work in which marks the ceasefire line. Given
Parkville, Missouri 64152 USA Peace Journalism research, train- this, Moon said, it was vital to realise
ing and development, he was that the North saw no reason to
The Center for Global Peace Journalism works with journalists, academics, and
honoured with the 2017 Luxem- consider itself “a defeated nation. [So,
students worldwide to improve reporting about conflicts, societal unrest, rec-
bourg Peace Prize, awarded by they would think] don’t treat us as if
onciliation, solutions, and peace. Through its courses, workshops, lectures, this
the Schengen Peace Foundation. we have to surrender to the United
magazine, blog, and other resources, the Center encourages media to reject In 2020, he will be a Leverhulme
sensational and inflammatory reporting, and produce counter-narratives that States.” Reporters should therefore re-
Visiting Professor at Coventry gard with scepticism calls by hawkish
offer a more nuanced view of those who are marginalized—ethnic/racial/ University.
A Park University Publication
religious minorities, women, youth, and migrants.
Continued on next page
pg 2 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol. 8, No. 1 pg 3
April 2019 April 2019
South Korea from Pg 3 gave up too much, we should still be they call for normalization of relations South Korea from Pg 4
exerting maximum pressure.” Instead, by “establishing reciprocal liaison
voices on the American side for “com- tries not to send warships to take part.
he called on the official agenda for the offices, lifting sanctions that harm
plete and verifiable disarmament” If more media were prepared to listen
process to be “attacked from the Left: vulnerable individuals, and facilitating
before concessions such as the lifting seriously to such voices, then a more
demand the formation of negotiating people-to-people engagement.”
of sanctions. Approaches that provide nuanced picture, exposing more of
teams” to hammer out a sequence of
for such steps to proceed in parallel One of the chief gains from the first the realistic prospects for peacemak-
real progress towards denuclearisa-
should be seen as more realistic. Trump-Kim summit in 2018 was ing, would emerge.
tion, and the “easing of the trade and
medicine embargo.” This would also a “freeze for a freeze”: no further
Another distinction in the Peace Jour- As Annabel McGoldrick and I argue in
meet one of Galtung’s key recom- nuclear weapons testing by Pyong-
nalism model originally proposed by Peace Journalism (2), distilling many
mendations for reporting peace plans, yang, in exchange for a halt to joint
Johan Galtung is to focus on “people of the discussions we conducted
which I presented at the Seoul confer- military exercises between the US
as peacemakers”, not just leaders. A with editors and reporters around
ence: ask “is the peace plan a process and South Korea. Peace campaigners
couple of months before leaving for the world, presenting inputs to news
or only an outcome?” Beyond the are calling for the latter to be made
Seoul, I listened to a talk, at Sydney’s from unconventional sources requires
day’s headline, what happens next? permanent. Over recent years, the
Exodus Foundation, by the veteran journalism to construct a “framework
pristine environment of Jeju Island
nuclear disarmament campaigner, of understanding” to establish their
If non-elite voices deserve greater has been violated by the establish-
Joseph Gerson, who was visiting Aus- relevance to the story. Today’s journal- demanding greater transparency as a decades… I discarded any assumptions
prominence on the American side, the ment of a new naval base, which
tralia from the US. Because the North ists must do this anyway, it could be corollary of that trust: “show me.” I might have had about the North
same is true on the Korean peninsula. hosted an “international fleet review”
Korea talks were an initiative of the argued, to justify their existence as Korean people.”
Korea Peace Now: Women Mobilizing last October. The local Association of
Trump White House, he explained, professional communicators. Part of the remedy for the demonis-
to End War, is an intervention by the Gangjeong villagers, who opposed the
Democrats were instinctively scepti- ing coverage exposed by the find- As long-form journalism (the film runs
Nobel Women’s Initiative and Women development, called on third coun- Another contributor to the Seoul
cal, if not downright hostile. A typical ings on Australian media, would, the 28 minutes) it’s in a genre that lends
Cross the DMZ. Taking the form of a conference was Thomas Rosenstiel,
line was: “this is all a sham, Trump Continued on next page researchers say, be to feature “more itself most readily to the PJ approach.
letter to Presidents Trump and Kim, Executive Director of the American stories illustrating individual and But there are clear opportunities now
Press Institute. Publics now require community life. This would give North for editors and reporters engaged
“news fluency”, he said, to enable Koreans a human face”. Getting the in all forms of journalism to peer
them to differentiate journalism they requisite access for such stories is dif- beyond the clichés, engage with the
can rely on. Editors and reporters ficult, they concede. goals and agendas of the parties to an
can help by explaining “how and why unresolved and potentially dangerous
this was a story.” If the message from However, a notable example has just conflict, and make room for peace to
journalism to readers and audiences screened on Australian television, enter the debate.
in the 20th Century was “trust me”, which points the way. The Foreign
its equivalent for the 21st, in a world Correspondent strand on ABC Tele- Notes
of unprecedented media plenitude, vision took us into the heart of a 1. Bronwen Dalton (2019) ‘Hermit
Prof. Jake
was inverted. Now, the message was unique US-North Korean cooperative kingdom, nuclear nation: if the media
Lynch
coming from readers and audiences, venture,between clinics in the country keep calling North Korea names, it will
discusses
peace for patients with multidrug-resistant only prolong conflict’. The Conversa-
journalism at tuberculosis – a deadly disease that tion, February 28, retrieved from link:
the 2018 KPF strikes half a million people a year https://theconversation.com/hermit-
conference in worldwide – and volunteers from the kingdom-nuclear-nation-if-the-media-
Seoul. Eugene Bell Foundation, who work keep-calling-north-korea-names-it-
with them. will-only-prolong-conflict-112507
2. Jake Lynch and Annabel McGold-
Titled ‘Out of Breath’, it’s a moving rick (2005) Peace Journalism. Stroud:
and memorable film, which deserves Hawthorn Press
to be more widely viewed – which it 3. https://www.abc.net.au/foreign/
can be, on the program’s website (3). out-of-breath/10825830
“I will never forget the first tubercu- 4. Hein S Seok (2019) ‘Amid interna-
losis centre I visited,” the film-maker, tional tensions, the battle to treat
Hein S Seok, has written (4). “As soon “contagious cancer” in North Korea’.
as we stopped, the North Korean ABC News, February 19, retrieved
medical team rushed over with huge from link: https://www.abc.net.au/
smiles. I realised I was witnessing a news/2019-02-19/north-korea-conta-
reunion of old friends who had been gious-cancer-battle-amid-internation-
UTexas Libraries working towards the same goal for al-tensions/10822102
pg 4 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol. 8, No. 1 pg 5
April 2019 April 2019
Gandhi: The original peace journalist
By Abhilash Chandran
Gandhi from Pg 6
est of the poor. He believed in living
to express his feelings while advis-
ing the two parties to resist from the
temptation of resorting to violence
journal, Gandhi said, “It was never
intended to be a commercial concern.
So long as it was under my control,
bravely write his quest for truth or ex- to pass frugally to the point of excess. In his and see reason in the situation. (5) the changes in the journal were
The true function of journalism periments with truth while boldly fac- Gandhi as a book “Small is Beautiful”, E.F. Schum- indicative of changes in my life...I can-
is to educate the public mind, ing the poignant situations to achieve professional acher points out how Gandhi rejected Furthermore, peace journalism seeks not recall a word in those articles set
not to stock the public mind with his goals. Essentially, he believed that and commit- Western urbanization and mass pro- involvement of people to reduce ten- down without thought or deliberation,
newspapers should have values when ted journal- duction in favour of a more traditional sions between warring factions. In the or a word of conscious exaggeration,
wanted and unwanted impressions.
they are launched with a view to serv- ist. He has in labor intensive approach. Even his ap- Gandhian approach, Gandhi under- or anything merely to please. Indeed
A journalist has therefore to use ing people. these chap- proach to circulation of his paper was stood the involvement of the people the journal became for me training in
his discretion as to what to report ters described unique. Rather than depending on ad- would be useful to solve communal self-restraint, and for friends a me-
and when. As it is, journalists are Gandhian journalism difficulties vertisements as a source of revenue, riots. Thus, he suggested a formation dium through which to keep in touch
not content to stick to facts alone. Gandhian journalism was a product of publishing he advocated copying and circulating of a peace brigade to reduce frequent with my thoughts.” (6)
Journalism has become the art of Gandhi’s approach to life, his concern news maga- of papers. (4) Gandhi’s approach to conflicts by prescribing a code of
intelligent anticipation of events. for humanity, and his deep commit- zines and managing them, includ- journalism was totally devoid of ambi- conduct to the members of the peace If we can practice peace journalism
-Mahatama Gandhi- ment to the poor for whose sake he ing the advertisement and finance tions. To him it was not a vocation to brigade. effectively, then the role of journalist
fought for national independence. aspects. Thus, it is useful both for earn his livelihood. It was a means to is prominent. The above statement of
Apart from being a national leader It was essentially the journalism of journalists and publishers even in the serve the public. In “Harijan” (June 18, 1936) he wrote, Gandhi clearly mentioning the charac-
and social reformer, Mahatma Gandhi communitarianisam and humanitari- present times. (3) “Some time ago I suggested the ter and morality of a journalist is most
was a great communicator. More than anisam. He had certain noble goals Gandhi as a peace journalist formation of a peace brigade whose important. And a journalist can work
anyone else, he recognized that com- that were based on his philosophy of It was Gandhi’s firm belief that the Gandhi, in a journalistic career span- members would risk their lives in deal- effectively if he can express and apply
munication is the most effective tool non-violence (ahimsa), self reliance newspaper was meant for “self- ning nearly four decades, used ing with riots, especially communal. his soul through his words.
to shape opinion and mobilize popular (swadeshi), self rule (swaraj), and less service” and that it should not journalism as tool of social reforma- --This piece was originally published in the
The idea was that this brigade should
support. Gandhi,whose 150th birth- truth-force (satyagraha). All these be used as a commercial enterprise tion and building peace in India. As a April, 2012 edition of The Peace Journalist.
substitute (for) the police and even
day is being celebrated this year, was were reflected in his journalistic writ- to amass profits. Despite financial journalist, Gandhi took the subjects the military. This reads ambitious. The
a strong believer in the power of the ings and oral communications, and strains, he chose to turn down ad- which could only be used for peace Reference
achievement may prove impossible.
word and wrote very cautiously in his his non- verbal communications such vertisements as they could compro- building among the people. In Gan- 1. Vilanilam v. John, Mass Communication in
Yet if the congress is to succeed in its India: A Sociological Perspective, Sage,
newspapers to mobilize public opin- as his innumerable journeys on foot, mise the focal purpose of the paper. dhi’s concern the main objectives of non-violent struggle, it must develop 05-Nov-2005. 2. Narayan, R.k, My days auto-
ion. The subjects he chose to write padayatras, within India, mediation, Instead, he devised unconventional journalism are: A. Understand popular the power to deal peacefully with biography, Indian thought publication 2006
on were varied and variegated, which fasting and prayer meetings. (1) modes to sell his paper and expanded opinion and give expression to it; B. 3. Iyenkar sudarshan, Gandhi was a great
such situation”. These writings clearly
depicted his honesty, integrity, and the subscription to sustain his paper. Arouse desirable sentiments among journalist, http://www.gujaratglobal.com 4.
Gandhi’s journals never had any sen- shows how Gandhi used his words for
in-depth understanding. Neelima, p, fantastic features, http://dhvani.
the people and C. Fearlessly expose peace building.
sational topics. He wrote on construc- He argued that additional columns co.in. 5. Murthy, D.V.R, Gandhian journalism
popular defects. is it relevant today, Kanishka publication, New
Gandhian journalism emerged from tive work, satyagraha, nonviolence, would be saved and could be instead
the values and philosophy practiced diet, nature-cure, Hindu-Muslim employed to advance the struggle. Writing about the “Indian Opinion”
Gandhi used journalism as a tool for
and propagated by Mahatma Gandhi unity, untouchability, spinning, khadi, Gandhi constructively used journalism
avoiding the escalation of conflicts. Mahatma Gandhi:
in his life and through his publica- swadeshi, village industries, and as a vehicle of his political activism.
tions viz., Indian Opinion, Harijan, and prohibition. He stressed the need However, the movement stretched
As a country like India with differ- A Celebration of the World’s First Peace Journalist
ences in each and every community,
Young India. With courage of convic- of re- orientation of education and beyond the political realm and en-
the chance of violence is inevitable.
August 26-27, 2019
tion, Gandhi applied the principles food habits and was a severe critic of tailed the striving for dignity and self-
Gandhi’s experiences both in South Join us in Kansas City with scholar and author Dr. Rajmohan Gandhi, the
of honesty and integrity in his real national defects. (2) respect. It brought about elemental
Africa and in India convinced him that grandson of Mahatma Gandhi, for an examination and celebration of
life and also in journalism. He could transformation in the socio-political
Gandhi’s insights and understand- violence could only be ended by uni- Mahatma Gandhi’s role and influence as a journalist, and his lasting impact
frame of the Indian community.
ing of the necessity of the media lateral acts of kindness. For avoiding on the profession. Featured speakers also include Cynthia Lukas and Kell
Abhilash Chan- the Hindu- Muslim conflict he advised Kearns, producers of two documentaries about Mahatma Gandhi which
and communication led him to have Today, journalism is a tool to create
dran is the both parties to understand the situa- have aired on PBS.
the movement’s on news and views an ever expanding source of revenue,
M.Phil Scholar of tion, and the language of Gandhi re-
publication and that is how the Indian but for Gandhi, who had very differ-
Gandhian Studies veals the inner power within him. For The celebration is being held in conjunction with Gandhi’s 150th birthday.
Opinion seems to have been born. ent goals, revenue was always more
at the School instance he dedicated the entire issue
Gandhi has devoted a separate chap- of a spiritual return. Always a social Two events will be open to the public. On Monday, August 27, Park Univer-
of Gandhian of “Young India” dated May 24, 1924
ter both in his autobiography and his and humanitarian crusader, Gandhi’s sity will host the Missouri premiere screening of “Gandhi’s Gift.” A Q&A with
Thought And to write a lengthy article on Hindu-
book on satyagraha in South Africa. underlying journalistic concerns were filmmaker Cynthia Lukas and Kell Kearns and Dr. Gandhi will follow the film
Development Studies, Mahatma Muslim tension, its causes, and cure.
Both the chapters contain details on with the living conditions of the poor- screening. On Tuesday, August 28, Johnson County Community College will
Gandhi University, Priyadarshiny In the article, he used sober language
why and how to publish a newspaper. host Dr. Raj Gandhi in an event celebrating Mahatma Gandhi’s 150th birth-
Hills Kottyam in Kerala, India.
The content of the chapters is enough Continued on next page day. His topic: “The Status of Peacebuilding Between India and Pakistan.”
pg 6 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol. 8, No. 1 pg 7
April 2019
Radio peacebuilding doing in community engagement with the characteristics of
from Pg 8 peace journalism. For example, they say they do not have
There are many such radio stations in East Africa that have any preconceived ideas on what stories they will find, and,
embraced peace journalism in their radio programs. of course, they give voice to the voiceless.
Ron Jones, Director of Community Engagement and Laura Ron then shared an example of community engagement
Ziegler, Community Reporter from KCUR public radio in in their story based in Tonganoxie, Kansas. This centered
2018 Greater Kansas City Peacebuilding Conference Kansas City spoke next on community engagement as on the plans of Tyson Foods to bring a chicken processing
peacebuilding. Ron Jones defined community engagement plant to the town – a plan that was supported by then-
Conference evaluates radio as peacebuilding tool this way: “To learn the needs and aspirations of communi-
ties by examining issues that matter most to their lives.
Kansas Governor Sam Brownback. However, many in the
town opposed the plant. Tonganoxie revolted against this
By Tom Patterson And to help people seek solutions to the issues facing their plan, protesting most directly against the city council, who
oon is called “Towards a Peaceful Society.” Yet another is a
As part of a three day peacebuilding conference in Kan- radio drama entitled, “A Call for Peace.” Vojvoda comment- communities.” He stressed how they sought out new voices had notice of this but did not alert the rest of the town.
sas City, speakers from around the world focused on the ed that community media, like peace journalism, does not and perspectives to broaden their coverage of issues. As a Through their community engagement, KCUR’s story cap-
achievements of radio as a peacebuilding tool on Oct. 26 at just give a voice to the elites of society but gives voice to result, they focused on serving underserved communities tured the variety of viewpoints reflecting the complexity of
Park University. Steven Youngblood, director of the Center the traditionally voiceless by presenting their views directly through their radio productions. This meant being engaged the issue.
for Global Peace Journalism welcomed some 60 people to from them and not from someone who claims to represent in communities beyond parachuting in to cover one-off sto-
the afternoon event which included four sessions on radio ries. One prerequisite for this was to establish trust; other- Another example was KCUR’s pursuit of stories centered
them. He stressed that radio in the form of community
and peacebuilding. wise the community would not engage with reporters. This on borders in the KC metro area. In this case, their com-
media has great potential for peacebuilding.
involved identifying stakeholders in the community who munity engagement resulted in a series of stories they
The first presentation featured via Skype Alexander Vo- Youngblood, director of the Center for Global Peace Jour- were asked what the issues that they faced, and whom the titled “Beyond Our Borders.” They put in over a year to
jvoda from Vienna, who works for a civil society organiza- nalism at Park University, spoke next and took us to East reporters should talk to who could address the issues from rediscover Troost Avenue (a traditional dividing line of
tion based in Buea, Cameroon, and the Reverend Geraldine Africa (Uganda and South Sudan) in his talk on Radio and the community’s level. With the stakeholders’ input the segretation in KC), the State Line, the Wyandotte-Johnson
Fobang of Yaoundé, Cameroon, president of the Camer- Peace. He began by going over the 10 characteristics of reporters then arranged listening sessions that took place county line (another racial dividing line), and the Missouri
oon Media Network and station manager of the Christian peace journalism: in that community and were always off the record. River. This in the spirit of peace journalism aims to dispel
Broadcasting Services, CBS Buea. They presented on “Radio stereotypes perpetuated by Kansas City’s geographical and
and Peace in Cameroon,” showing how radio has been 1. Being proactive The public radio reporters would always start out with the racial boundaries.
used as an effective peacebuilding tool in reporting on the 2. Uniting rather than dividing following questions:
Anglophone crisis in Cameroon. “What do you want metro Kansas City to know about your The final speaker, Spencer Graves, board member of com-
3. Rejecting official propaganda
community?” munity radio station KKFI, gave examples of peace initia-
4. Giving voice to the voiceless
Cameroon has historically been regarded as one of the “How engaged are you in your community?” tives that have been broadcast by KKFI or disseminated
5. Being balanced
more peaceful countries in Western Africa, but that has “How engaged do you want to be?” on its website, including events and rallies by PeaceWorks
6. Providing depth and context
changed recently. Rev. Fobang gave a brief history of the Kansas City.
7. Considering the consequences of the reporting Then after getting confirmation from the group that their
origins of the conflict, which now centers in southwestern, 8. Carefully choosing words to avoid being inflammatory
Anglophone Cameroon. Mr. Vojvoda spoke on how he has notes were accurate of what the community shared, they The radio and peace session was part of the Greater Kansas
9. Selecting images that are not inflammatory would return to the station and conceptualize stories based City Peacebuilding Conference. This three-day event was
been organizing workshops for media to professionalize 10. Debunking stereotypes, myths, and misperceptions.
their work, stressing how hate speech can be countered on what they learned. Ziegler pointed that while they hosted by Avila University, Park University, and Johnson
and how media can be inclusive rather than divisive. The don’t consider themselves to be technically peace journal- County Community College from Oct. 25-27, 2018.
Youngblood discussed how he included these elements of
work has led to the official registration and growth of the peace journalism in workshops he led for radio journalists ists, there is obviously a lot of overlap in what they are
Cameroon Community Media Network, which now has in Uganda. These journalists produced radio stories (the
more than 70 members. (Far left)- KCUR’s
most important medium in Uganda) that incorporate these Laura Ziegler
10 characteristics. In one example, a public service an- discusses border-
Rev. Fobang then explained what the Christian Broadcast- nouncement (PSA) sold the concept of a peaceful election.
ing Service (CBS radio) is doing to bring people together briding stories
It used the tag line: “Everyone has a dream to live a better produced by the
in the service of peace. One way is a program focused on peaceful life this election. Choose Peace!” This PSA was
conflict resolution called “Eyole” which means “the Wind station. (Left)-
played thousands of times throughout Uganda. Cameroon
of Peace.” Another, focusing on issues in Northwest Camer-
Youngblood then talked about the series of peace semi- Community
Tom Patterson is an Associate Professor nars that he held in Juba, South Sudan, in 2016. The focus Media Network’s
and Director of International Education at of these seminars was on radio as a tool of reconciliation Rev. Geraldine
Johnson County Community College. He – the healing of groups that have been torn apart by war Fobang and Alex
received his MA in Linguistics at the Uni- or conflict. Then, as in Uganda, the journalists went out Vojvoda connect
versity of Texas in Arlington, and his Ph.D. into the country to produce radio stories with a theme of with the
in English Language and Literature from the National reconciliation. He then played a couple of these reconcilia- conference via
University of Singapore. He has worked for number of tion radio productions that those journalists had produced. Skype.
universities abroad in Poland, Japan, and Singapore.
Continued on next page
pg 8 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol. 8, No. 1 pg 9
April 2019 April 2019
Photojournalists can humanize, spark healing In Cameroon, journalists evaluate peace efforts
By Alexsandra Canedo By Rosaline Akah Obah
tory of many regions in Latin America.
The Gabriel García Márquez Founda- In her role as Program Officer for Members of the Cameroon Com-
tion for New Ibero-American Journal- Here are four key takeaways from the the International Center for Journal- munity Media Network (CCMN)
ism (FNPI) held its sixth Gabriel García panel discussion: ists in the Americas, Alexsandra and North West and West chapters
Márquez Journalism Awards and Canedo provides support to several made up of peace journalists met in
Festival in Medellin, Colombia. 1. Photojournalism adds a human grants, particularly under the um- Bamenda recently to evaluate efforts Cameroonian
layer to conflict. brella of the Investigative Reporting put in place by their various activities journalists meet
Every year, the event offers more than Historically, the needs and griev- Initiative in the Americas (IRIA). as journalists in bringing peace to the in Bamenda
75 free activities centered around ances of civilians, specifically minor- Canedo manages various small war-torn region as well as peaceful to evaluate
journalism, literature, art, science, ity groups, have been pushed aside grants and pro- living and coexistence. This was during their efforts for
technology, innovation and culture. in peace negotiations and left out of vides logistical a network meeting of the association peace.
This year, speakers, panelists, and peace treaties. Despite the harrow- and administra- coordinated by the President Rosaline
trainers from more than 25 countries ing experiences of individuals living tive assistance Obah Akah.
gathered in Medellin Oct. 3-5 to cel- in conflict in the 21st century, many to carry out
ebrate some of the best publications people still associate conflict with mili- workshops and During this strategic meeting, the
to surface in Latin America in the last tary movement and weapons. Botero conferences. members engaged the 2019 year on a as the ongoing crisis in Anglophone meetings will be held within the year
year. believes it’s important to photograph more promising note by conducting a Cameroon rages on. that will include various stakehold-
conflicts because it forces individuals groups are not invited to the table. situational analysis of the Anglophone ers involved in peacebuilding so that
In an event titled, ”Photojournal- to see the conflict from a different Photography can provide irrefutable crisis in Cameroon and the Bangoulain The members have received trainings peacebuilders and CCMN can combine
ism, memory and search for truth,” perspective and makes “the conflict evidence and challenge conflicting crisis in the West Region. on principles of peace journalism and forces for sustainable peace. Mem-
Colombian academic Germán Rey, more human.” Many individuals in testimonies. With this in mind, Botero conflict sensitive reporting thanks to bers were also drilled on reporting
moderated a discussion between power approach conflict from a top- said that she “tries to save the survi- After finishing one year of the peace the Presbyterian Church in Cameroon
journalism project, a project impact with empathy during a crisis by vet-
four photojournalists: Stephen Ferry down approach, rather than a bottom- vors of conflicts” with her photogra- (PCC) and Bread For the World (BROT) eran journalist Omer Songwe. Overall,
(United States), João Pina (Portugal), up approach, which hurts individuals phy and be as impartial as possible analysis was done. The chapter also in collaboration with CCMN. The
worked out an action plan on how CCMN members continue producing
Natalia Botero (Colombia), and Álvaro on-the-ground in conflict zones. The when she’s behind a camera lens. participants took turns doing a self as- productions to enhance peace and
Ybarra (Spain). panelists agreed that photojournalism various actors, including the media sessment and group evaluation of the
Ferry brought up Peru’s Truth and through the CCMN, can work on con- conflict transformation.
can serve as a tool to help fill this gap, efforts they have put in so far in peace
The conversation was structured Reconciliation Commission (TRC) as tributing towards the de-escalation of building through the radio, TV, print, Rosaline Akah Obah is the Re-
shifting the focus to individuals who
around the role that photojournal- an example of the successful use of violence and encourage peace in Cam- and online platforms. gional Communication Secretary
are affected.
ism can play in the search for truth in photojournalism in the peace process, eroon using peace journalism prin- PCC in the North West Region. She
conflict-ridden societies and the con- 2. Photography can serve as and an example for other countries to ciples and conflict sensitive reporting. Collectively members observed that was named the
struction of peace. Through their own evidence. follow. Peru’s TRC ordered a multime- their work in the regions are chal- Pioneer Sta-
work, these photojournalists brought Botero says that “photography testi- dia photography project, Yuyanapaq, Opening the one day meeting,Chapter lenged by factors like inaccessibility
President Akah reminded members to tion Manager
critical insight to several conflicts in fies.” When truth commissions meet to build collective memory in the to news events, withering up of news of the Christian
Latin America, and their photographs after a conflict ends, they mostly aftermath of Peru’s internal conflict. always remember that peace remains sources, ghost towns (general strikes),
priceless and as peace journalists, Broadcasting
have provided a foundation for coun- rely on written testimony, which can Stephen Ferry believes that photo- and sporadic shooting. These all pre- Service (CBS)
tries to acknowledge the violent his- be troubling if the voices of certain graphs are fundamental if the country contributing in any way possible for vent journalists from doing their jobs.
peace to reign remains paramount. Radio Bamenda
truly wants to reflect on their past and in 2016.
move forward as a unit. She urged them to redouble efforts More capacity building seminars and
In October 3. Photojournalism can spark healing.
in Medellin,
Colommbia,
Panelists agreed that photojournal-
ism can have a profound impact on
Photo since they have the power to write
from Pg 10 history. Photographs have the power
peace-conflict-areas
are important, they create negative to reconcile various truths and create About IJC Net
conference societies and their ability to create
peace, marked by the absence of a more collective, consistent memory. IJNet delivers the latest on global media
panelists a foundation for communal healing
violence. Social peace — known as With this power, it’s imperative to be innovation, news apps and tools, training
discuss photo- by building a shared visual memory
positive peace — peace goes deeper, impartial and to shed light on all sides opportunities and expert advice for profes-
journalism’s and national consciousness. Ybarra
and can lead to true healing. of the conflict. sional and citizen journalists worldwide.
ability to believes that photography should IJNet is produced by the International
nurture and play an important role throughout Center for Journalists in seven languages -
4. Photojournalists have a larger --Originally published on International
heal societies. the entire healing process, laying the Arabic, Chinese, English, Persian, Portu-
responsibility. Journalists’ Network (IJNet.org) and is
groundwork for social peace. Al- guese, Russian and Spanish. Subscribe to
t’s crucial that photojournalists published here with permission.
though ceasefires and peace treaties IJNet’s free, weekly newsletter. You can
adhere to the highest levels of eth- See: https://ijnet.org/en/story/pho- also follow IJNet on Twitter or like IJNet on
Continued on next page ics and refrain from altering images, tojournalism-has-role-constructing- Facebook.
pg 10 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol. 8, No. 1 pg 11
April 2019 April 2019
Community radio stokes peace in Colombia Global journalists compare threats, discuss PJ
By Emma Heidenreich dangerous places in the world to be a By Steven Youngblood JUF was blessed by the active presence of 48 international
Emma Heidenreich is a Journalism journalist. The World Press Freedom (Santa Fe, NM)-I traveled 754 miles from Kansas City to journalists (literally, from Albania to Zimbabwe). These
I want you to imagine a dilapidated
and International Relations Gradu- Index situates Colombia at a dismal Santa Fe, New Mexico in December to attend and speak journalists were brought to the U.S. as Edward R. Murrow
but colourful radio station studio,
ate (Hons. in Peace and Conflict 130 out of 180 countries. At most risk at a conference titled, “Journalism Under Fire” (JUF). Little Fellows by the U.S. State Department.
nestled in verdant Colombian jungle
Studies). Emma is a member of the are those journalists situated in rural did I realize that this short trip would literally take me
and protected overhead by a dense
TRANSCEND Network for Peace zones, where clashes between armed around the world. Interactions between the international journalists and
canopy. Inside, a man speaks into a
Development. She lived and worked groups and drug cartels are frequent. Continued on next page
microphone. He strategically omits
as a journalist in Colombia at the
his name from his broadcast for fear
height of the 2016 peace negotia- The peace agreement in October 2016
of an armed group active in a village
tions. Her research centres on en- saw a ceasefire and demobilisation of
nearby.
gaging grassroots voices in conflict record numbers of FARC troops. How-
Colombia has been at war for 60 and post-conflict contexts. ever, other armed groups with similar
years. It is one of the longest wars in ideologies to FARC remain active, such
modern history and is perpetuated by as the People’s Liberation Army, as
poverty, political underrepresentation well as right-wing paramilitaries and An overflow crowd
and a lack of access to healthcare, drug cartels. According to Human is engaged by
education or land rights for rural Rights Watch, right-wing paramilitar- speakers at the
people. In the mid-1960s, armed mi- ies in Colombia are responsible for a Journalists Under
litias emerged from both ends of the disproportionate number of extrajudi- Fire conference in
political spectrum in these rural areas, cial killings, intimidation of journalists December in New
many joining the FARC – the Armed and censorship of violent events. Mexico.
radio to protest against the treatment
Forces of the Republic of Colombia, of rural farmers and poor families and How does supporting Colombia’s
the largest leftist rebel army in the to whistle blow the activity of illegal local radio stations build Positive
country and some joining hard-right armed groups in their communities. Peace?
paramilitaries with corrupt ties to In her book “Citizens’ Media Against In Colombia, international and na-
state security forces. Armed Conflict,” Clemencia Rodríguez tional policymakers, NGOs and
Colombia
highlights the significant role local me- citizens recognise local radio stations’ voters are located in areas where the cational and talkback programmes on
In this context, the history of com- from Pg 12
dia projects have played in networking contributions to peace. The earliest conflict has caused the most devasta- community radio stations have, and
munity radio runs deep in Colombia.
grassroots organisations for peace examples of community radio net- Organisations such as the Colombian tion. Duque’s campaign attracted vot- continue to be, significant platforms.
In October 2016, former-President
in Colombia and in disrupting armed works supported by USAID, the EU Federation of Journalists and the ers from urban areas, but many rural Rural consumers can access informa-
Juan Manuel Santos signed an historic
groups’ recruitment of young men. and UNESCO, include Popular Cultural Communication System for Peace voters lacked access to information tion, have an opinion on political and
peace agreement with FARC. The
However, some stations are high- Action (ACPO). ACPO plays a role in (SIPAZ) today help to network local on Duque’s political objectives or a justice processes and hold Duque’s
agreement stipulated a commitment
jacked by armed groups and religious educating rural communities and media projects and to ensure funding medium through which to voice their government to account.
to media reform and community radio
authorities with their own motives. enabling them to have a voice on is directed to them. Funding is particu- concerns. The link between access to
projects “in their production and Evidently, these rural radio stations
Radio is a powerful medium. the aforementioned root causes of larly critical given Colombia’s highly information and peace is clear. Edu-
dissemination of content to foster a are key to peace because they are
culture of peace.” conflict in Colombia. Understanding monopolised media context. Accord-
Violence against local radio stations how best to address these issues in located where the majority of vio-
ing to RSF, small scale media projects lence takes place, where international
Today, some 450 internationally Community radio stations and grass- the future remains a critical challenge have to compete for audience inter- and even urban Colombian journalists
recognised community radio stations roots activists in Colombia often for transitional justice policy. To build est against more lucrative, pervasive rarely travel and where local people
operate throughout rural and regional become targets of armed groups, Positive Peace in the nation, local media conglomerates and their ties to truly know and understand the causes
Colombia, actively opposing the who see media projects as attempts voices must be heard. political and economic elites. and impact of conflict on their com-
armed conflict. Radio is a cheap and to dissuade local people against their
violent ideologies. In the post-peace Local radio stations are key to peace In August 2018, President Iván Duque, munities. This does not need to be a
relatively accessible medium for most
agreement phase, it is critical that the in Colombia because they are located leader of the far-right Democratic complex process. Rural communities
rural-dwelling Colombians in areas
international community, the Colom- where the majority of violence takes Centre Party succeeded Santos. Duque have already laid the groundwork.
with poor infrastructure, no internet
bian Government and non-govern- place, where it is too dangerous for opposed the peace agreement and its They need recognition and support.
or electricity access. Inexpensive,
ment organisations work together to most journalists to travel and where approach to transitional justice, vow- Recognition that what they do makes
battery-powered radios have become
afford security measures to local radio local people truly know and under- ing to renegotiate the agreement and a difference and support in one of the
a key source of information.
stations and grassroots journalists. stand the causes and impact of con- prioritise justice for victims if elected. most hostile contexts in the world.
--Originally published at: http://visionofhu-
Community radio stations in Colombia flict on their communities. Ironically, it is victim’s voices that have manity.org/positive-peace/colombias-rural-
date back to the early 1940s. Grass- According to a 2018 investigation by
been silenced in the process – the radio-stations-key-peace/ and at
roots movements for peace used Reporters Without Borders (RSF), UTexas Libraries
Continued on next page majority of peace agreement ‘yes’ https://www.transcend.org/tms/ .
Colombia is still one of the most
pg 12 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol. 8, No. 1 pg 13
April 2019
JUF from Pg 13
The audience pitched me some difficult questions to close
out the discussion. Will audiences pay attention to PJ
stories? (Actually, research shows audiences prefer PJ and
the Americans present enlightened and enriched both Thrilled UPeace
groups. I was privileged to moderate two exchanges with solutions themed stories). How can we get media con-
graduates last
the international journalists. One exchange featured jour- sumers out of their bubbles? (Not easy. Start with media
spring (right);
nalists from Ghana, Cote D’Ivoire, Cameroon, and Nigeria literacy).
and a view of
(panel discussion on misinformation), while another had the university’s
reporters from Cameroon, Niger, and Nigeria (Citizen Ex- Aside from my presentation, Journalism Under Fire
featured a number of outstanding speakers, including bucolic campus
change Circle). We discussed fake news and government near San Jose,
propaganda; the double-edge sword of social media; the Pulitzer Prize winners Dana Priest (Washington Post) and
Don Bartletti (Los Angeles Times). Costa Rica.
challenges of reporting about terrorism; and the state of
media freedom in their respective countries. Priest spoke about global censorship. Interestingly, she
My breakfast and lunch chats with the visitors about their said that Facebook’s handling of news constitutes “a new
UPeace to offer new MA in media and peace
careers and their lives were equally enriching. Profes- kind of censorship” that promotes extreme views by
sionally, several journalists even indicated an interest in giving consumers only the news Facebook thinks readers
hosting me for a peace journalism workshop or project “want.” Photojournalist Bartletti showed his photo essays
from the U.S.-Mexico border (including recent shots of a By Suamava Mitra practice from both the fields of Peace critical cultural studies related to
in their home countries in Africa, the Middle East, and and Conflict Studies and Media Stud- media, political communication, inter-
Southeast Asia. migrant caravan), and from Honduras. His photos were To build peaceful and inclusive societ-
evocative: infuriating, depressing, and startling. ies in today’s mediatized world, know- ies, the University for Peace is launch- national media law as well as critical
I presented a breakout session where a lively group of ing how media can be a tool for con- ing a new postgraduate program understanding of contemporary digital
about 50 gathered to discuss media coverage of migrants, Other JUF speakers included Ukrainian Olga Yurkova (fake flict transformation, and a platform called MA in Media and Peace. media.
and how peace journalism can be a tool to improve that news, Russia and Ukraine); Arbana Xhare from Kosovo to promote inclusivity, is essential.
(threats against journalists); Angela Kocherga and Alfredo The program at UPeace, which was Admissions to the program are open
coverage. In this session, after a quick examination of su- Peacebuilding processes now increas- established by the General Assembly now. Partial scholarships for students
perficiality, negativity, and stereotyping coverage of Syrian Corchado (covering the U.S.-Mexican border); Nikahong ingly include media-related practices
Kowsar (the dangers of political cartooning in Iran); and of the United Nations, will begin in from all signatory countries to the
refugees in European and Turkish media, we talked about and approaches to enhance their August 2019 and is meant for students University for Peace Charter of the
how many of those same traits can be seen in recent cov- several New Mexico journalists discussing their challenges impact but focused higher education
and threats. who are interested in studying peace- UN General Assembly (currently 41
erage of the caravan “crisis.” I showed findings of recent for students and practitioners in this building and conflict transformation countries), along with a few full schol-
studies that showed the threat was exaggerated by politi- Journalism Under Fire was organized by Executive Direc- wide area is lagging behind. from the perspective of media and arships, are on offer for prospective
cians, and that negative language was used far more than tor Sandy Campbell and his staff at the Santa Fe Council communications. Current or would- students. Those interested can find
positive language about the caravan migrants. Finally, we The gap between the disciplines of
on International Relations. Jason Rezaian of the Washing- Media Studies and Peace and Conflict be practitioners in the international more information by visiting www.
discussed the way that the president used the media to ton Post spoke at JUF and wrote about the conference in humanitarian and peacebuilding fields upeace.org.
spread his anti-immigrant hysteria. Studies – in spite of efforts by scholars
the Post. Rezaian noted that the conference was timely, and practitioners around the world who want to specialize in information-
since threats facing journalism are “one of the most con- related interventions will find the Based in the beautiful surroundings of
I said that peace journalism, conversely, would po- such as the Peace Journalist magazine a 300-hectare nature reserve near the
tray immigrants more three-dimensionally, and with sequential challenges facing free societies today.” – remains one of the major stumbling program beneficial.
capital San Jose in Costa Rica, Uni-
a humanitarian angle. PJ would also reject the harsh, I couldn’t agree more. blocks. The students of the program will be versity for Peace is a globally focused
judgmental language we’ve seen so much in the me- attending a range of courses related institution of higher education in the
dia. I played several examples of peace journalism-style Steven Youngblood is editor of the Peace Journalist Magazine, With a goal of building interdisciplin-
ary knowledge among the peacebuild- to Peace and Conflict studies that are field of peace and conflict studies, as
stories, including a terrific piece by NPR’s Scott Simon author of Peace Journalism Principles and Practices, and direc- already offered by the Department well as international law, and environ-
about a family separated at the border (https://www.npr. tor of the Center for Global Peace Journalism at Park University, ers of tomorrow about research and
of Peace and Conflict Studies at the ment studies.
org/2018/08/11/637780548/how-separation-affected-a- where he is an associate professor.
University. In addition, the MA in
migrant-family). Saumava Mitra coordinates the Media and Peace program will re- The University is well known for its
new MA program in Media and volve around five core courses meant pedagogy and research in the broad
Peace at University for Peace. He to offer them deeper understand- area of peace and conflict studies and
holds a doctorate in media studies ing of the diverse theories, practices has been active in creating disciplin-
At a peace from University of Western Ontario ary dialogues between Media Stud-
and research within the Media and
journalism in Canada. Apart from his teaching, ies and Peace and Conflict Studies
Communications discipline that have
presentation he researches since its inception in 1980. The MA
intersections with, and implications
(left); and at a on news media’s in Media and Peace will build on this
for, peacebuilding and conflict trans-
panel of African role in conflict expertise in inter-disciplinary research
formation.
journalists at JUF with a special and pedagogy at the University and
in New Merxico. emphasis on These core courses will draw on also broaden the scope of the current
visual imagery of knowledge and understanding related MA specialization in Media, Peace
war. to global political economy of media, and Conflict that has been on offer for
students in recent years.
pg 14 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol. 8, No. 1 pg 15
April 2019 April 2019
Nigerians concerned about social media, violence Nigeria from Pg 16
views and opinions concerning elec-
toral processes. These tips, adapted to
7. Avoid comments that portray the
“election as a personality conflict
By Innocent Iroaganachi Nigerian politics, are: between candidates. Instead, focus
Innocent Iroaganachi holds a Bachelor and Master of Arts of political powers, even before the on the candidates’ positions on issues
The 2019 general elections in Nige- in Communication Studies. He is a Doctoral student in coming of the social media. 1. Avoid comments that make it look of importance—schools, health care,
ria were delayed, then finally held Peace and Development Studies and a part-time lecturer as if the election is between APC and roads,” security, housing, unemploy-
Prior to the coming of the social PDP. Instead, let our comments give
Sunday, Feb. 24. These elections were at the Catholic Institute of West Africa (CIWA) Nigeria. He ment, etc.
media, basing political arguments on publicity to other political parties,
held against a backdrop of real and is a member of the World Catholic Association of Com-
religion and ethnicity for winning of whose candidates and ideologies are 8. “Avoid unbalanced stories. Instead,
perceived violence on social media in munication (SIGNIS) and of Young Peace Journalists of Pax
votes was minimal and it could eas- credible. seek to balance each story with com-
previous elections. Christi International (YPJ - PCI), a blog writer for Asante
ily be regulated. But with the social ments from the major parties or their
Africa Foundation, and a journalist with the Centre for
Prior to the 2015 general elections media, doing so has been amplified 2. Avoid limiting our arguments on supporters. Balance includes getting
Social Awareness, Advocacy and Ethics (CSAAE).
in Nigeria, some predictions were and has had negative effects on both just polls and surveys. Instead, let our input from informed citizens.”
made, that Nigeria will break up, educated and uneducated electorates. comments focus on “issues of impor-
to publicise contents aimed specifi- television, radio, and newspaper to
there is going to be war, etc. Most of Some electorates, in many cases the tance as identified by the public and 9. “Avoid letting candidates use you to
cally at discrediting institutions and also engage APC in the war of words.
these predictions were based on how young people, make uninformed judg- articulated by candidates and parties, spread their
personalities in the then PDP (Peoples
heated arguments were on the media, Four years down the political line, ment on a candidate or political party including platforms/manifestos.” propaganda.
Democratic Party) -led government,
especially the social media. Those Nigeria is back going through the because of negative social media con- Identify and
by the newly formed coalition party 3. Avoid basing your knowledge of the
intense moments on the social media same experience again with the 2019 tent. Added to this, electorates go as expose talk-
known as APC (All Progressive Party). candidates on what they say about
were felt among the political class and elections. Now, it is no longer the case far as using abusive and inflammatory ing points.
the electorate, who were in support In 2014, it was basically the then op- of one political party, other political words to insult fellow electorates. themselves. Instead, “seek expert Instead, as
of either of the leading political par- position party (APC) who understood parties have learned the skills, that is, analysis of the candidate’s background you broad-
Foreseeing this kind of incivility, the as well as the veracity and logic of the cast their
ties in the country. With providence ‘better’ how to use the social media skills on how to maximise the social
Nigerian parliamentarians some time candidates’ comments.” statements, UTexas Libraries
on her side, the country held her to reach the electorates with their media, to sell demeaning, aggressive,
ago proposed laws to regulate social include a
elections and a new government was desired contents, though not minding inflammatory, and damaging contents
media and to 4. Avoid making reference to “inflam- critical analysis of what is being said.”
instituted. if the contents were violence-oriented against their perceived opposition. In
or not. While APC was focused primar- fact, on the 18th of January, 2018, the Prudence is set up a media
council com-
matory, divisive, or violent statements
by candidates. Instead, there are two 10. “Avoid reporting that gives opin-
During the run up to these elections,
in 2014, the interesting thing was the
ily on disseminating contents through
the social media, PDP focused on us-
online version of Leadership News-
paper had reported a piece with this
expected of mission. The options: A. Edit these comments to ions/sound bites only from political
both proposed eliminate these inflammatory state-
antagonistic use of the social media ing the traditional media namely; the headline: “PDP Launches Social Media (those of) us laws have ments; B. Publish or broadcast these
leaders and/or pundits. Instead, cen-
ter stories around everyday people,
War Against APC.”
Abuja workshop unites media, police who use encountered
setbacks be-
comments, and then offer pointed
analysis and criticism of what is being
their concerns and perceptions about
The fear of concerned citizens in the candidates and process” (Young-
A workshop February 6-8 in Abuja, Nigeria brought together senior jour- Nigeria is not about the social media, social media cause of mas- said.” blood, 2012, p.14).
nalists and editors and police officials to discuss and plans for the Nigerian which is good in itself, but the fear is sive campaign
against them 5. Avoid “airing comments and reports Nobody wishes to be insulted or
general elections later in February, according to the Media Foundation for on the kind of direct and indirect vio-
from the people, as a result of lack of that encourage sectarianism and divi- abused because of a political party or
West Africa (mfwa.org). lence-oriented contents which these
trust in the government. sions within society—race-baiting, persons running for office that he/she
political parties and their respective for example. If these comments must
The Media Foundation for West Africa (MFWA), International Media Society followers transmit using social media supports. Neither does anyone who
(IMS), Nigeria Union Journalist (NUJ), and the Nigeria Police Force held a One thing the Nigerian electorates us- be aired, then follow up with com- loves peace wish to foment a virtual
platforms. mentary pointing out the candidate’s
workshop “to ensure mutual respect and understanding between the police ing social media need to know is that war of words that is capable of caus-
and the media during and after the 2019 Nigeria elections,” according to the A clear instance where we see more the political class in Nigeria are firmly attempt to divide and distract voters.” ing direct violence for electorates. It
Media Foundation for West Africa. of these virtual incivilities taking place united in believing that the direct and Instead, our comments should “insist is journalism’s responsibility to share
is on the comment sections of any indirect fights and insults taking place on the candidates addressing issues our views in a manner that they “in-
As the workshop concluded, the participants news story that is published by online on the social media between the elec- that highlight common values and form citizens so that they may intel-
adoped a resolution that stated a need to by news agencies which contain politi- torates mean ‘success’ for politicians. bring communities together.” ligently fulfill their electoral duties and
educate the public on social media and its cal content about parties or politi- Thus, the Nigerian electorates are to framing stories so as to short-circuit
possible adverse effects; for police to share be guided by prudential peace in their 6. Our comments should be such violence and not exacerbate political
cians. It need be said that religion and that do not allow “candidates get
their operating procedures with the media and to hold regular briefings; to ethnicity are the dominant divisive transmission of views on elections and polarization.”
hold “confidence building” sessions between the media and police prior to political issues. away with using imprecise, emotive
factors on which most of the com- language. This includes name calling.
elections; and to “check overzealousness and overbearing attitudes on both ments found therein are based upon. This prudence is expected of us using
sides,” according to the Media Foundation for West Africa. In his article “Connecting Peace and Instead, our comments should “hold the social media, because we all are
These factors have for a very long candidates accountable for what they
Electoral Journalism,” Steven Young- Nigerians, seeking to have commit-
time remained prominent for use by say, and use precise language as you
For more, see: http://www.mfwa.org/issues-in-focus/media-stakeholders- blood (2012, p.14) made a list of tips ted Nigerians that will make Nigeria
Nigerian politicians in the acquisition discuss issues.”
police-commit-to-ensure-improved-police-media-relations-ahead-of- to be avoided and others to be imple- better.
2019-nigeria-elections/ Continued on next page
mented by those wishing to transmit
pg 16 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol. 8, No. 1 pg 17
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