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IN THIS ISSUE
• Comic books show “Challenges of War”
• Dispatches from DRC, France, Spain, Zim-
babwe, Myanmar
• Nigerian press stirs religious animosity
Special Report: PJ and Covid-19
Discussing PJ, trauma, and reporting divided societies in
Northern Ireland
A publication of the Center for Global Peace Journalism at Park University Vol 9 No. 1 - April 2020
April 2020
Contents Special Report: PJ and Covid-19
3 Covid-19 and PJ 18 DRC, Somalia
Cover photo--
PJ principles inform Covid reporting Comic books explore war
Pandemic coverage informed by PJ principles
Paul Gallagher, WAVE Truama Cen-
tre in Belfast, by Allan Leonard
5 Northern Ireland By Steven Youngblood ing path toward transformative jour- A third PJ scholar and author, As-
Trauma reporting workshop nalism in Africa by imbibing pan-Afri- soc. Prof. Dr. Metin Ersoy, faculty
There is no more challenging situ-
The Peace Journalist is a semi- can institutional and methodological of communication and media stud-
annual publication of the Center 6 Northern Ireland ation for a journalist than covering
a traumatic event, especially when
approaches and African philosophies
of Utu (humanity), Umoja (unity), and
ies, new media and journalism and
department vice chair, Eastern Medi-
for Global Peace Journalism at Park Social media, ethics, and PJ this event affects the journalist, her
University in Parkville, Missouri. The Harambee (collective responsibility) as terranean University, North Cyprus,
family, and her colleagues. Add to this
Peace Journalist is dedicated to dis-
seminating news and information
8 Northern Ireland 20 DR Congo difficulty the need for the reporter
to explain complex scientific infor-
news values as opposed to copy and
paste journalism that leads to sensa-
believes peace journalists should seek
guidance from three principles origi-
for teachers, students, and
Event: Media in divided societies Media training in North Kivu tionalism…” (2020-Routledge). nally articulated by Dr. Johan Galtung,
mation, and the necessity of being
practitioners of PJ. 10 Kansas City 22 Nigeria factual without creating panic, and
one sees the challenge that covering
Giuliana Tiripelli, author of Media and
Peace in the Middle East and senior
the originator of the concept of peace
journalism. These principles are truth
Human rights, journalism event orientation, people orientation, and
Submissions are welcome from all. Press stirs religious animosity the Covid-19 pandemic creates for lecturer in digital journalism and me- solution orientation.
We are seeking shorter submissions
(300-500 words) detailing peace 12 Myanmar 23 Venezuela, Spain journalists. dia discourse at DeMontfort Univer-
sity, Leicester, UK, concurs, especially Dr. Ersoy writes, “Peace journal-
journalism projects, classes, propos- Rohingya reporting falls short Documentary spotlights students The principles of peace journalism,
when it comes to the notions of col- ists needed to uncover all cover-ups
as they do for so many other types of
als, etc. We also welcome longer
submissions (800-1200 words) 15 France 24 Cameroon reporting (about refugees, elections,
civic unrest, race, terrorism, etc.), can
lectivity. She writes, “At this moment
it is essential to bring hope and trust,
related with the Covid-19. The ‘pro-
paganda’ here means frightening
about peace or conflict sensitive Disinformation, World Forum #DefyHateNow campaign and to avoid polarisation, and PJ has people, giving false information, and
journalism projects or programs, as provide valuable guidance to report-
a great role to play in this direction. causing trauma in the public. Another
well as academic works from the
field. We do NOT seek general sub-
16 California 25 Afghanistan ers who are covering perhaps the
most difficult story of their careers.
The best thing that journalists can do
now is to make sure they inform the
problem of the journalists while they
are covering Covid-19 news stories is
PJ at Rotary World Peace Conf. Spotlight: Journalists’ safety public fully and clearly about how ‘numbers.’ Instead of focusing on the
missions about peace projects, but Three peace journalism experts from
are instead focused only on articles
with a strong media angle.
17 Cameroon 27 Zimbabwe Kenya, the UK, and Cyprus offer some
interesting perspectives on the appli-
they have to behave, but also focus on
stories where similar challenges have
numbers, journalists should focus on
the people. We need more people-
CCMN launches nationwide Celebrating World Radio Day been won by communities acting as oriented stories about to Covid-19 to
cation of peace journalism to covering
Deadlines: March 3 (April edition); Covid-19. In email interviews, two of a whole (e.g. Ebola, others), so that understand the realities. However,
September 3 (October edition). What is Peace Journalism? these experts emphasize responsible
media’s role in supporting collectivity
people believe that this challenge
can be won, and adopt appropriate
journalists prefer to provide numbers
like in the election race,” he said.
Editor: Steven Youngblood, Director, Peace Journalism is when editors and reporters make choices that improve the and rejecting polarization. behaviours based on a strong sense of
prospects for peace. These choices, including how to frame stories and care- community. Ersoy continued, “My last sugges-
Center for Global Peace Journalism
fully choosing which words are used, create an atmosphere conducive to peace Prof. Fredrick Ogenga, Director of the tion for journalists is approaching the
and supportive of peace initiatives and peacemakers, without compromising Center for Media, Democracy, Peace “Stories focusing on the community health issues with more of a solution
Proofreading: Carol Getty, Ann itself may also help to support a con- orientation. During this process, the
Schultis, Park U. emeritae faculty the basic principles of good journalism. (Adapted from Lynch/McGoldrick, Peace and Security Rongo University, Kenya,
Journalism). Peace Journalism gives peacemakers a voice while making peace believes that peace journalists should structive rediscovery of local identity mass media broadcast public an-
initiatives and non-violent solutions more visible and viable. apply traditional African principles to and the benefits of interdependence nouncements about the protection of
Contact/Social Media: (per Prof. Ogenga’s Utu, Umoja, and Covid-19 virus. But if we look at the
steve.youngblood@park.edu A number of valuable peace journalism resources, including curriculum Covid-19 reporting. “’We are in this
together’ (as reflected by these prin- Harambee). It’s a massive cultural news stories we may see that they are
Twitter-@Peace Journ packets, online links, as well as back issues of The Peace Journalist can be found
ciples) should be applied to coverage shock to access this new dimension, focusing on the numbers instead of
Facebook-Peace Journalism group at www.park.edu/peacecenter.
of Covid-19,” Ogenga observed. for many citizens who were supportive the solutions. Journalists need to be
Center for Global Peace
Journalism, Park University Center for Global Peace Journalism He recommends Covid-19 reporting
of individualistic philosophies, and PJ
needs to support a peaceful transition
highlight health initiatives, and give
voice to public, not elites only.
The Center for Global Peace Journalism works with journalists, academics, and using the principles of Utu (humanity), ‘back to reality,’”Prof. Tiripelli said.
Umoja (unity), and Harambee (collec- “Journalists focus on the visible effects
students worldwide to improve reporting about conflicts, societal unrest, rec- Steven Youngblood is director of the of the Covid-19. Nevertheless, we also
onciliation, solutions, and peace. Through its courses, workshops, lectures, this tive responsibility). In the book Peace Center for Global Peace Journalism
Journalism in East Africa, Ogenga need to focus on invisible effects of
magazine, blog, and other resources, the Center encourages media to reject (Park University), author of Peace the health issues and social isolation.
sensational and inflammatory reporting, and produce counter-narratives that elaborates about these principles. Journalism Principles and Practices,
He writes, “The idea of using African They can give more voice to psycholo-
offer a more nuanced view of those who are marginalized—ethnic/racial/ and editor of the Peace Journalist gists and experts on this issue. In so
A Park University Publication lenses for peacebuilding and conflict magazine.
religious minorities, women, youth, and migrants.
(and trauma) reporting…is a refresh- Continued on next page
pg 2 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol 9, No. 1 pg 3
Special Report: PJ and Covid-19 Special Report: PJ and Covid-19
Covid from Pg 3
“peace journalism” or not. For ex-
ample, the Ethical Journalism Network
the reporting they’ve seen thus far.
Dr. Ersoy observes a mixed bag when
Covid from Pg 4
just started with the new policies. I
would say the coverage in the UK has
become more balanced and accurate
In conclusion, while there is excellent,
responsible virus reporting taking
place, there is no doubt that this
doing, journalists provide quality news recommends that journalists: it comes to virus coverage. He writes, Local radios may be pretty good at
now, and not exacerbating divisions, reporting can be augmented using
for the public and contribute for the “There is huge misinformation and showing aid and support available,
--Avoid sensationalism and scaremon- after governments have taken clearer peace journalism principles.
public health in general,” he con- propaganda-oriented news stories in because much of the first stage
gering in language and images that measures and put policies in place
cluded. new media and mass media. (Spe- change has happened at the local If there was ever a time for reporters
could heighten anxiety; for instance that reassure people. However, a
cifically), Cyprus is a small island in level. There is little success stories and editors to carefully consider the
Aside from the truth orientation, pictures of empty supermarket stronger focus on countries which
the Mediterranean region. Our mass in the mainstream news media, but consequences of their reporting, and
people orientation, and solution ori- shelves, stockpiling – which can in- have had more success so far will
media was very sensitive about the this is unavoidable given the situation report in the public interest, it is now.
entation discussed by Dr. Ersoy, there flame tensions and create more panic help,” she said.
language that they are using on Co- and the fact that many countries have
are other principles of peace journal-
Covering another epidemic: Ebola in 2014
--Avoid racial profiling – you don’t vid-19 news stories. However, some
ism, outlined in my textbook Peace
need to repeat where the virus was online media companies, which are
Journalism Principles and Practices,
generated each time you report new expecting to get more clicks, are using
that can offer useful advice.
cases. click bait strategies in news headlines. By Rexford Johnson the communication abyss that existed of the magazine-formatted message
“
In reporting Covid-19, peace journal- Somehow, they publish either fake between key stakeholders and the was persuasive as it appealed for safe,
EDITOR’S NOTE: This article originally
ists should consider the consequences news about the solutions for Covid-19 dying population continues to expand. healthy practices. Soon radio became
ran in the October, 2017 edition of
of their reporting (am I creating un- Stories focusing on the or are giving false hope to readers the Peace Journalist magazine. Note
Media had to switch its focus to a the nerve centre in the fight against
necessary panic?); give a voice to the community itself may also by writing headlines like, ‘vaccine collaborative role. Ebola.
the emphasis on collaborative media
voiceless (how everyday people are found.’ We can say that Cypriot media
help to support a construc- is doing more peace journalism on the
roles, consistent with the discussion in Role of the media Conclusion
impacted-hourly workers, the home- the previous article on Covid-19.
less, inmates and their families); and tive rediscovery of local health issues than online media. I can On July 26 2014, the Sierra Leone As- Living in Ebola territory was a walking
identity. say that online media are exacerbat- sociation of Journalism established an nightmare. Imagine a year with no
avoid inflammatory language (“dead- On May 25 2014, Sierra Leone record-
ing the situation, frightening people, Ebola Response strategy to respond Christmas holiday, no Easter break, no
ly,” “devastated,” “gruesome”) and --Giuliana Tiripelli ed its first confirmed case of Ebola
to the outbreak. Forty eight private
”
images (unnecessarily graphic photos, giving false information, and causing which was traced from neighbouring birthday celebration, no vacation, no
trauma in the public.” and community radio stations across social gatherings, hugs, handshakes
photos that exaggerate or misrepre- Guinea. The virus would later spread
the country donated airtime to the and sometimes no church gathering.
sent an event). exponentially to affect all regions,
--Ensure you protect affected people: As far as Kenya is concerned, Dr. network and run a daily simultane- The fear of death was so strong you
districts, and sectors of the nation.
As always, PJ looks to break away do not identify names, images or iden- Ogenga has been impressed with ous broadcast under the umbrella of could almost touch it. Fear of con-
from mainstream narratives about the tifying material without the permis- the reporting thus far. He writes that Communication problems the Independent Radio Network. The tracting the virus, fear of touching a
pandemic and offer counternarratives sion of the relevant people... “Covid 19 coverage in Kenya is peace At the initial stage of the outbreak, objectives were; “to provide an early door knob at the office, fear of using
(how retirement portfolios of every- journalism ‘par excellence’ using pan government was unwilling to involve response outlet for the Ministry of headphones in the studio … fear of
--Be accurate and report facts; avoid African values of Utu or humanity and Health and the Social Mobilisation
day people have been gutted, how media in its health education cam- headache, fever or worse.
rumour and try not to speculate; Harambee in the solidarity around dis- Committee, (and) increase the level of
and if small businesses will recover, paign. Quoting the scientists, the
there’s a huge amount of misinforma- courses regarding the outbreak. There awareness and understanding of the Radio was essential in relaying round
who might profit from the outbreak, media reported Ebola to be an incur-
tion circling, so be aware of how to is that promise (in the coverage) of virus and educate the public...” the clock info during the two major
on the impacts of social isolation, as able disease. Society viewed infected
spot and debunk misinformation. ‘we will overcome.’” countrywide lockdowns in Sept 2014
mentioned by Dr. Ersoy, etc.) people as victims instead of patients
Programs were designed to raise and Mar 2015 respectively. It was
--Seek expert opinions – from medics which undermined efforts to mobilize
Also, peace journalism eschews pro- For example, in the Standard newspa- public awareness about then signs and more than packaging reports and
and scientists with relevant creden- the public to seek medical attention if
paganda, especially partisan political per from Kenya, recent virus report- symptoms of the virus, the role of the anchoring programs; we were giving
tials – but note that scientific advice is they develop symptoms.
posturing (polarization, as mentioned ing included “we will overcome” key service providers, and the signifi- hope to the nation.
frequently changing stories like “No Coronavirus hitches at cance of new medical infrastructures.
by Prof. Tiripelli). PJ reports respectful- Communication strategies flopped
ly about victims, using the guidelines (Nairobi airport)” and counternarra- as government sources differed with Control activities like contact tracing,
--Provide context and point people to Rexford Johnson has over 15 years
we recently discussed at two trauma tive stories like “Coronavirus provides information from international Medics safe burial, surveillance quarantine,
authoritative and credible information of experience in Journalism. He
reporting seminars in Northern Ire- unexpected boost for Kenyan fisher- on the frontline – like MSF. The public and isolation and stigma issues were
sources and resources (https://tinyurl. is Programs Director at Believers
land. (See report on page 6). men.” (https://www.standardmedia. was getting confused, fears were also recurring program themes.
com/w66pzu9) Broadcasting Net-
co.ke/) heightened, rural communities were
In fact, Covid-19 coverage recommen- Local media focused on informa- work and Produc-
Problematic practice, best practice in information blackout, and myths
dations from other journalism organi- In analyzing Covid-19 coverage in tion and sensitization, not investiga- er at Independent
While it’s too early to rely on any were riding the tide. With the situa-
zations reflect these peace journalism the UK, Prof. Tiripelli observes, “It tion. The radical / watch dog role Radio Network in
quantitative or content analysis stud- tion rapidly deteriorating, journalists
and responsible trauma reporting depends on what media you follow. was rejected by the journalists who Sierra Leone.
ies of Covid-19 coverage, the three ex- realised that we could not continue
principles, whether they’re labeled themselves were beleaguered by the
perts still have strong opinions about with traditional media functions while
Continued on next page deadly virus. The design and content
pg 4 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol 9, No. 1 pg 5
April 2020 April 2020
Amid Covid threat, seminar analyzes trauma NI trauma from Pg 6
By Kathryn Johnston from Queens University Belfast, who had lost the use of his promote ‘justpeace’ - the concept of justice aligned with
legs during the troubles. Gallagher highlighted trauma and peacebuilding pioneered by American Professor of Inter-
The overnight snow had frozen on my windscreen when I victims, pointing out that victims are not homogenous, national Peacebuilding at the University of Notre Dame,
left home at dawn on Thursday, 12 March 2019. before leading a stimulating discussion on how journalists John Paul Lederach, a frequent visitor to Northern Ireland.
may compound trauma, and how journalists can contrib- After praising VIEWdigital’s Amnesty nominated Victims
As I drove through Derry, I passed the spot where almost ute to creating a more trauma-informed society. and Survivors issue, he spoke of Lederach’s ‘justpeace’
a year ago my friend, colleague, and fellow member of the approach.
National Union of Journalists, Lyra McKee, became the lat- Dr. Jake Lynch from the University of Sydney, who is also a
est victim to die in the Northern Ireland Troubles. She was Visiting Professor at Coventry University this year, shared This concept was illustrated by Hands Across the Divide,
shot dead in Derry by a gunman from the New IRA while insights from his ground-breaking work on media interven- the sculpture unveiled in Derry in 1992 on the twentieth
observing a riot with other journalists. tions for peace during conflict. anniversary of Bloody Sunday, when 13 unarmed protes-
Lyra, who was dedicated to investigating the unsolved Lynch spoke of how the media could structure itself to Continued on next page
mysteries of the Troubles, would have thrived on these
two inaugural workshops where victims and survivors of
the troubles, students and practicing journalists, academics Social media, ethics, PJ pondered in Belfast
and peace builders would By Steven Youngblood
discuss the reporting of My “glass half empty” response was that social media
trauma – and most impor- Two events the week of March 9 helped to conclude a will increasingly empower demagogues and authoritarian
tantly, hear how it could be nearly year-long peace journalism project in Northern regimes. My “glass half full” response was that an increas-
improved. Ireland sponsored by the U.S. Embassy-London and the ingly media literate public will use social media as a tool
U.S. Consulate-Belfast. to build bridges and facilitate dialogues for peace.
Her life and enthusiasm
were at the forefront of my The first, a roundtable discussion, was held at the consul- My presentation was part of a conference at BelfastMet
mind at both the Derry and ate. I’ve had some interesting discussions about whether that introduced participants, to a program called Live
Belfast trauma and journal- journalists should use the term “martyr,” but none so Skills, which helps young people develop careers in fields
ism workshops on 12 and engaging as our interchange during this session. using digital technologies (creative media, digital art and
13 March 2020. design, and digital marketing).
In previous seminars in Kashmir and Beirut, journal-
I spoke of Lyra’s vision, the ists told me that they labeled anyone who died fighting
trauma experienced by her, Israelis or Indians a martyr. Here in Belfast, the discussion
her partner Sara, and her centered around those who self identify as martyrs as
family, before reflecting on the pain and grief of the years they commit some heinous act like blowing themselves
when the political violence that almost tore these islands up. Should the press call them martyrs, since that’s what
apart left around 3,700 people dead. they call themselves? Several attendees said yes, that it’s
journalists’ obligation to use people’s self identification.
Many more thousands were injured. They, their families, (Left)-Prof. Jakes Lynch at the trauma workshop in Derry. I’m not so sure, I said. What if the bomber called himself a
friends and neighbours – and the greater population of (Top)-Students analyze the role of media in trauma. hero? Should the press repeat that label?
Northern Ireland who bore witness to the troubles - bear (Above)-BelfastMet student Delyth Cook discusses her
the scars to this day. We also had a vibrant talk about false equivalencies, and
group’s findings. (Photos by Allan Leonard)
the pitfalls they pose for journalists. This topic is especial-
Later I spoke of the bursary which will be established in Lyra’s name to support young journalists engaged in in- ly fraught here, given Northern Ireland’s history.
vestigative journalism and exploring alternative platforms
Kathryn Johnston is a journalist and researcher based Another session was held during a conference sponsored
where narrative and long form pieces might be published.
in Northern Ireland. She is co-author of From Guns to held at the Girdwood Community Hub, a former army
Details are still being finalised but will be announced later
Government: an unauthorised biography of Martin barracks during the Troubles repurposed as a community
on this year.
McGuinness has worked center. At the event sponsored by Belfast Metropolitan
for The Sunday Times, The I was proud to speak in the company of Steve Youngblood College, I spoke briefly about social media and peace
Daily Telegraph, The Bel- from the Centre for Peace Journalism, who discussed journalism. I led off with an interesting stat, a poll show-
fast Telegraph, Irish Times socially responsible trauma journalism; Alan Meban and ing that only 22% of Northern Irish trust social media.
and BBC. Kathryn is also Allan Leonard from FactCheck NI; who spoke of the use of My message was that social media can better serve the
a member of the Irish Ex- emotive language and alternative websites for fact check- public, and peace, using peace journalism principles.
ecutive Council -National ing; and Paul Gallagher from WAVE Trauma, a PhD student PJ events in March, 2020 were held at the U.S. Consulate
In a vibrant discussion, the most difficult question thrown (top) and Belfast Met College in Belfast.
Union of Journalists.
Continued on next page my way asked me to predict the future of social media.
pg 6 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol 9, No. 1 pg 7
April 2020
NI event looks at media in divided societies NI event
Tim Epple described five roles that
from Pg 8
By Allan Leonard Al Jazeera they tried to show the view
Allan Leonard is co-founder and media has played in peace agree-
A two-day international conference from the street, not centres of power. ments: (1) media as a promoter of
editor-in-chief at FactCheckNI,
examined the role that media plays “News organisations shouldn’t be the values of human rights (citing
Northern Ireland’s first and only
in divided societies and in creating there to report on the institutions of the Nepal agreement (2015); media
dedicated fact-checking service. He
more peaceful and stable communi- power. We need to cover civil society as a protomer of the value of inclu-
ties. Organised by the Social Change is also editor of
and social media is leading on this,” sion (citing the Belfast/Good Friday
Initiative in partnership with Concili- Shared Future
Nanabhay said. He added that speak- Agreement (1998) and its call for Nadine Hack
ation Resources and the University News, which
ing truth to power is not inconsistent Irish language rights, including media discusses
of Edinburgh’s Political Settlements reports on
with understanding wider societal atti- provision); (3) media as a watchdog, the safety of
Research Programme, the event was peacebuilding
tudes, saying, “Do this by reporting on reporting on what protagonists do journalists.
attended by journalists from South in Northern
the ground work; don’t report outrage post-agreement; (4) media as dissemi- (Photo by Al-
Africa, Colombia, Myanmar, Rwanda, Ireland.
all the time.” nator of information about the agree- lan Leonard)
Turkey, the Middle East, the Balkans, ment to the public; and (5) media as
Kashmir, Somalia, Syria, Nepal, and Mohamed Nanabhay explained the The role of media in analysing bulwark against propaganda (citing
Northern Ireland. Media Development Investment Fund. peace agreements the Kenya agreement and monitoring
The fund makes an equity investment The Political Settlements Research of hate speech).
Irish broadcaster Charlie Bird led a in independent media companies, in Programme at the University of Ed-
conversation with Mohamed Nanab- order to earn interest income that is inburgh presented new research on Anup Kaphle described how recent
hay of the international Media Devel- reinvested into the fund. It has clients the role of the media in international laws passed in Nepal run counter to
opment Investment Fund. Bird stated globally, including South Africa, the peace accords. Professor Christine Bell the declarations made in its 2015
that we live in a society where free Balkans, Hungary, and Poland. led a conversation with programme peace agreement. He explained this
and independent journalism is under research associate, Tim Epple, along as a consequence of the Maoists and
threat, citing this year’s murder of In a discussion with the conference with Jeremy Adams (BBC Northern Communists coming into power, with telling, this effort of rewriting history the Irish News took a stand against
Lyra McKee. “We have to be careful. attendees, someone asked whether Ireland’s Head of Television Current their desire to police morality. Kaphle will continue.” paramilitary violence.” He gave the
The fourth estate is so important for it takes a revolution in order for news Affairs) and Anup Kaphle (Editor-in- said that media is fractured and highly example of the three Northern Ireland
us, with everything at stake,” he said. media to notice the work of civil Chief of Kathmandu Post). The role of the media in
partisan in Nepal, and the challenge is newspapers (Belfast Telegraph, Irish
society. Nanabhay answered that at promoting peace
Continued on next page to write for the truth instead of politi- News, News Letter) coming together
Jonathan Cohen, Executive Director
Trauma from Pg 7
cal or opinion journalism.
Jeremy Adams remarked that at the
of the international peacebuilding or-
ganisation, Conciliation Resources, led
during the multi-party talks (that con-
cluded with the Belfast/Good Friday
Agreement): “We had a phone-in for
tors were shot dead in Derry by the Parachute Regiment. Ireland. This remains a touchstone for press freedom in times of the paramilitary ceasefires a discussion on whether media has
(Hands Across the Divide pictured below). Northern Ireland. peace, with 160,000 received calls.”
in Northern Ireland, he thought that a role in promoting peace and stabil-
ity in divided societies. The panellists Conclusion
The students who made up The trauma reporting workshops in Belfast and Derry were perhaps the role of media in reporting Padraic Quirk (Deputy Director at SCI)
the conflict there might diminish. On were Vikki Cook (Director of Content
most of the body of the the culimination of a nearly year-long peace journalism Media Policy at UK broadcast regula- concluded the event by noting, “We
audience at the Belfast Met project in Northern Ireland sponsored by the U.S. Embas- the contrary, he sees at least as much need to think long and hard about
a role as before. “We have found a tor, Ofcom), Noel Doren (Editor of the
on Friday 13 March also sy-London and the U.S. Consulate-Belfast. Irish News), and Milica Pesic (Exec. how we can report the peace well and
heard from Angelina Fusco, role. It’s now about corruption, finan- concentrate on the issues that are
cial incompetence, and accountability Director of Media Diversity Institute).
the former BBC NI Head of important to peacemaking in divided
News, who holds a presti- to power,” he commented. societies.”
Cook spoke about recent Ofcom
gious Ochberg Fellowship Adams was asked whether the media commissioned reports, particularly in
awarded by the Direct Ac- regards to how the UK public service Quirk finished by declaring that SDI
should take a step back, at times of is very keen to engage and further
tion on Research and Training (DART) Centre on Journalism its reporting, for the sake of a peace broadcaster, the BBC, represents and
and Trauma. portrays society. The findings were this conversation around the role of
process. He answered, “If you sus- the media in deeply divided societies
pend a commitment to truth, you can that accuracy of reportage has been
She was joined by the eminent film maker Sean Murray, maintained, as well as impartial- by saying, “We will be reaching out
whose feature-length documentary investigates the role exacerbate the festering of conflict.” to people to follow that up, both [in
This was also his rationale for the ity (she added that neutrality is not
the British government played in the murder of over 120 always required, for sound reasons). Northern Ireland] and internationally
civilians in Counties Armagh, and Tyrone from July 1972 production of the latest Spotlight … It now has to be about some of the
programme, The Troubles: A Secret Diversity is found in regional report-
to 1978, and Barry McCaffrey, an award winning journalist age, less so from London headquar- doing, the practical things that can be
who, with Trevor Birney, whose film, No Stone Unturned, History. That is, he observed that done as a result of having this exper-
Northern Ireland’s contested history ters (which is seen as white and male).
an in-depth look at the unsolved 1994 Loughinisland tise in the room.”
massacre, where six men were murdered while watching Group discussion at the trauma reporting conference at has become a contested present. Ad- This article first appeared on Shared
ams said, “Without some sort of truth Noel Doran said media can help create
the World Cup at the local pub in Loughinisland, Northern Belfast Met. a climate to progress peace.“ We at Future News.
pg 8 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol 9, No. 1 pg 9
April 2020 April 2020
Event considers human rights, journalism Peacebuilding
such as opportunity gaps for people
from Pg 10
activist, arguing that good opinion When asked about Brexit, Johnston
By Janette Jasperson
of color or the widespread belief that pieces “need to be fact-based, not just discussed the impact of a hard bor-
“Everyone has the right to freedom of the oppressed created the condi- outrage pieces.” der. She said that this possibility
opinion and expression; this right in- tions of their oppression. According has already led to violent threats. If
cludes freedom to hold opinions with- to Diuguid, when journalists are silent The final speaker was Kathryn John- the hard border is established, she
out interference and to seek, receive on these issues, they reinforce the ac- ston, veteran journalist and officer for “fears” it will lead to a resumption
and impart information and ideas tions and attitudes of the oppressors. the National Union of Journalists in of violence, and she voiced concern
through any media and regardless of Northern Ireland. She decried cover- that her community overall has been
frontiers.” – Article 19, The Universal Diuguid then presented information age of conflict in Northern Ireland as desensitized to violence.
Declaration of Human Rights (1948) about the functions of media, discuss- “too binary. You’re either a victim or
ing how these functions (surveillance, a perpetrator.” This approach ignores Steven Youngblood, Director of the
Student journalists, academics, and correlation, transmission, entertain- perpetrators’ history of being victim- Center for Global Peace Journalism at
interested community members gath- ment, economic) make some minority ized themselves and overlooks the Park University, concluded the after-
ered at Park University in Parkville, groups (Asians, Native Americans) long history of inequality. noon by pointing out four common
Missouri on Friday afternoon, Novem- invisible, while relegating other mi- threads in all the presentations:
ber 1, to discuss “Human Rights and norities (African Americans, Latinos) Johnston lamented that journalists
Journalism: Challenges and Opportu- to ne’er-do-well status--those who too often settle for a “slick quote” 1. Journalists too often “strip people
nities.” This discussion was the second need to be watched closely (surveil- rather than digging deeper into the of their humanity” through the way a
session of the Greater Kansas City lance). Women of all ethnicities are story. And she observed that journal- story is reported.
Peacebuilding Conference, “Human presented either as damsels in need ists can re-victimize those who have
Rights: The Foundation of Peacebuild- Lewis Diuguid and Bette Tate-Beaver discuss the media’s role in ongoing op- of rescue or as suspicious characters been traumatized, if they are not 2. Journalists play a constructive role
ing.” pression during the peacebuilding conference at Park University. who must be watched (e.g., Hillary sensitive to the impact of the story. in advancing human rights by bringing
Clinton). White men, however, are This type of journalism “strips people deserving stories to the public’s atten-
Journalists and human rights activists da and maintain pressure for change. • After the New York Times Magazine positively and prominently featured in of their humanity.” tion and keeping them there.
are “kind of like cousins,” said Sarah Many abuses happen at the local ran a front-cover story about civilian all of the functions of media.
Margon, Foreign Policy Director at the level, so the public will not hear about casualties in Iraq, the Pentagon and Johnston noted that women have 3. People speak in different ways, so
Open Society Foundations and the them without media involvement. In Congress acknowledged the problem. Journalist and syndicated columnist been excluded from peace processes journalists need to be representative
afternoon’s first speaker. “We’re both three recent situations, journalists Mary Sanchez spoke next, further and newsrooms in Northern Ireland, of those voices.
trying to expose the truth.” Margon have successfully pressured the U.S. Why does reporting on human rights emphasizing the importance of to the detriment of both. She praised
government: matter to individuals? Jo Berry, founder of Building Bridges 4. The principles of peace journalism
elucidated this relationship by an- diverse newsrooms. She noted that
for Peace, who searched out the man are essential for effective reporting on
swering three questions. you “have to have connections to tell
• Stories on the murder of Saudi “Although we are super polarized in who had killed her father. Berry’s pur- human rights, especially the principles
the United States,” Margon said, “the real stories” inside the Latino commu- of giving a voice to the voiceless and
Why do human rights matter journalist Jamal Khasoggi have led to nity. She said that she’s used Human pose was not to hear an apology but
to journalists? a “crack” in US support for the Saudi threat of the truth can still hold us to see his humanity, an approach that of offering counter narratives to those
together.” When journalists tell us the Rights Watch for years as a reliable advanced by the dominant culture.
In the words of Article 19 of the government, which human rights source of data. Sanchez also explored journalists should take when covering
Universal Declaration of Human activists are trying to exploit. truth, we can develop an informed violence.
opinion and then take action. the fine line between journalist and
Rights, journalists depend on the
fundamental right “to seek, receive • Weeks of reports on the violence
against the Rohingya in Myanmar Lewis W. Diuguid (author, lecturer,
and impart information and ideas.”
finally forced the U.S. government to and journalist) and Bette Tate Beaver
Margon pointed out that journalists
act. (executive director of the National
cannot work effectively in countries Sarah Margon,
Association for Multicultural Educa-
which don’t honor that right. At an Foreign Policy
Janette Jasperson is the Inter- tion) continued the discussion by
operational level, journalists depend Director at the
national Education Coordinator looking at media’s role in “continuing
on human rights organizations for Open Society
at Johnson County Community oppression” in society. One root is
reliable information, both from the Foundations,
College in the Kansas City area. the lack of diversity in newsrooms. In
organizations’ own research and from discussed the
She is passion- 2016, minorities made up one-third
their local contacts in areas where intersection of
ate about the of the U.S. population, but only 17%
journalists cannot go (because of cost human rights
importance of newspaper journalists and 23% of
or access issues). and journalistm.
of introducing on-line-only journalists according to
(Photo by Jon
Why do journalists matter to college students the ASNE Diversity Survey. As a result,
Hokenson)
human rights organizations? to the world be- journalists often are silent about chal-
Margon called journalism a “force- yond American lenges facing minority communities,
multiplier” that can help set the agen- borders. Continued on next page
pg 10 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol 9, No. 1 pg 11
April 2020 April 2020
Rohingya reporting often ignores PJ approaches Rohingya from Pg 12
By Shameem Ara Sheuli the repatriation process instead of ing Pro-Myanmar national policy. On
discussing the flaws in the agree- the other hand, the Indian daily, The
Despite the growing acknowledge-
ment signed between Bangladesh and Hindu showed a neutral position in its
ment of peace journalism as a worthy
Myanmar authorities in November coverage, balancing the two version of
concept to promote peace and non-vi-
2017. Sheuli’s study presumed this narratives promoting by Bangladesh
olent solutions to conflict, newspapers
might have jeopardized the repatria- and Myanmar authorities.
in Myanmar, Bangladesh, China and
tion process of Rohingya refugees,
India have largely chosen to follow ARSA appeared as a terrorist organi-
which was postponed at the last min-
war journalism approach in reporting zation in Myanmar newspapers who
ute and yet to begin.
the decades-long Myanmar-Rohingya started the fighting, while Rohingyas
conflict, according to a new study. Contradictory Trends, were portrayed as accomplices of
Different Narratives ARSA. On the other hand, Bangladeshi
A little over 58 percent of the stories
This study identified some fascinating media persistently reported that
published by the newspapers fol-
facts depicting a contrasting trend be- Rohingyas are the victims of longtime
lowed war journalism style against
tween the two Myanmar newspapers discriminations and persecutions
only 13.54 percent peace journalism,
and narratives of the conflict circu- by Myanmar authorities. Myanmar
meaning those couldn’t act as peace-
lating by Bangladesh and Myanmar newspapers, especially Global New
building tools and create an atmo- they demonized ARSA for provoking
media. Light of Myanmar branded Rohingyas
sphere to engage the involving parties the Myanmar military but branded
as ‘extremist terrorists’ highlighting
in negotiation. It found Global New Light of Myanmar Rohingya citizens of Rakhine always
the atrocities of ARSA for legitimat-
was on top of using war journalism ing military campaigns of Myanmar. as victims. Bangladeshi newspapers
Shameem Ara Sheuli, a Bangladeshi
ponement of a repatriation process gust 2017 following an offensive of style while Myanmar Times showed Newspapers highlighted sufferings highlighted human rights abuses by
journalist conducted this study on
of Rohingya refugees on 23 January Myanmar military in retaliation to the more peace journalism approach com- of Buddhist and Hindu citizens of Myanmar military against Rohingya
‘Reporting Myanmar-Rohingya Con-
2018, in six English language news- attacks on police posts in Northern pared to coverage of other newspa- Rakhine while ignored human rights population quoting humanitarian
flict: War Journalism or Peace Journal-
papers—two each from Myanmar Rakhine by Arakan Rohingya Salvation pers. The coverage of state-run Global abuses against the Rohingya minor- agencies. A large number of stories
ism?’ as part of her Masters Thesis at
and Bangladesh and one each from Army (ARSA), the latest study found New Light of Myanmar was highly ity population. Myanmar newspapers covered sufferings of the refugees in
Swansea University following the war/
China and India. The newspapers are journalists in Bangladesh, Myanmar, partisan while the coverage of pri- criticized the international community Bangladesh.
peace journalism model of Norwegian
Myanmar Times and Global New Light India and China mostly followed war vately owned Myanmar Time showed of deteriorating the situation.
scholar Johan Galtung. Can Peace Journalism
of Myanmar from Myanmar, New Age journalism style while writing their a neutral stance.
By contrast, Bangladeshi dailies por- Bring Out Facts?
She analyzed 251 stories, published and The Daily Star from Bangladesh, stories and the trend continued till the
Both the Bangladeshi dailies tend to trayed the Myanmar military and Ra- Though this study detected over 13%
since the latest violence broke out Global Times from China and The postponement of a repatriation pro-
frame war journalism and less likely to khine Buddhists as villains and blamed stories published in six newspapers
on 25 August 2017 until the post- Hindu from India. cess of Rohingya refugees scheduled
follow peace journalism, but New Age them for attacking Rohingya Muslims. followed peace journalism style in
for 23 January 2018.
And surprisingly, her study revealed covered the least number of peace They criticized the Myanmar leader reporting Myanmar-Rohingya conflict,
Shameem Ara Sheuli is a Bangla- journalism stories among the six the researcher claimed that those
that the number of peace journalism Reporters described clashes between Aung Sung Suu Kyi for supporting the
deshi journalist with more than newspapers. The Chinese newspaper, stories failed to use strong language
stories in war/conflict reporting by Myanmar military and ARSA, the en- Myanmar military. To some extent,
a decade of experience. She is Global Times comes at second in fol- as required to comply with the peace
newspapers of Asian countries was on mity between Rakhine Buddhists and
a founding member and former lowing war journalism style while the journalism concept though peace
decline while the number of war jour- Rohingya Muslims minority, focusing
Executive Director of Institute of Indian daily, The Hindu was the other journalism, in general, discourages
nalism was increasing. Earlier studies on human casualties and damages
Communication Studies (ICS), an newspaper least likely to follow peace journalists to use strong emotive
that analyzed newspaper coverage of of properties. News stories were
organization dedicated to build journalism. languages such as genocide or ethnic
Kashmir dispute between India and confined to a closed space and time,
capacity of journalists. She is a Ful- cleansing. It asks to preserve these
Pakistan, Tamil Tigers Movement in what was happening in the Northern
bright Scholar of Erasmus Mundus It has been apparent from the study phrases for the gravest case.
Sri Lanka, Maluku and Aceh conflict Rakhine, Bangladesh Myanmar bor-
Journalism with a specialization on that Myanmar and Bangladesh have
in Indonesia and Muslim separatist ders and Cox’s Bazar refugee camps at
War and Conflict. different versions about how the fight- The latest situation of Rohingyas in
movement in Mindanao in the Philip- the moment of reporting. The areas of
ing started, who are the antagonists Rakhine was a gravest case. Human
pines between 2005 and 2010, re- agreement or peace initiatives were
and who are the protagonists. The Rights Watch claimed the military
searchers found more than 30% of the ignored while voices of victims and
newspapers, in general, sided with na- in Myanmar carried out a campaign
coverage followed peace journalism soldiers in the field were not heard in
tional policies circulating their version of ethnic cleansing against Rohingya
style . It was more than two times the reports.
of narratives. Muslims. Satellite images released in
latest study spotted in the coverage of
The media highlighted violence and September 2017 by Colorado-based
Myanmar-Rohingya conflict. The newspaper coverage of the Chi-
insecurity expressing doubts over Digital Globe showed Myanmar
After violence broke out on 25 Au- nese daily Global Times presented the
Continued on next page Myanmar version of narratives reflect- Continued on next page
pg 12 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol 9, No. 1 pg 13
April 2020 April 2020
Rohingya from Pg 13 World Forum panelists counter disinformation
authorities torched empty Rohingya military. They failed to bring out the By Steven Youngblood
villages as part of the campaigns even facts which is not compatible with the
after ARSA called a ceasefire . best practices of peace journalism. Disinformation is a menace to democracies around the
Austin Aug-
world. Yet, there are those around the world who are fight-
be (right)
Amnesty International termed clear- Giving the example of the Rwanda ing disinformation using fact checking, literacy program,
discusses
ance operations of Myanmar military genocide, Sheuli warned of the failure and peace journalism.
countering
as crimes against humanity while the of reporting accurately and choosing
These anti-disinformation efforts were detailed at a ses- disinfor-
UNHCR claimed that human rights strong languages in conflict report-
sion called “Mythbusters,” which was part of the Council of mation in
violation against Rohingya Muslims ing. Referring to Schimmel’s study,
Europe-sponsored World Forum for Democracy last week in Nigeria
in Rakhine is a ‘textbook example’ of she said, its consequence is devastat-
Strasbourg, France. duirng
ethnic cleansing . ing. She mentioned that local media
the World
shaded the cruelty of the conflict in
The UN Human Rights Council in- My presentation was titled, “Disinformation, Democracy, Forum for
Rwanda while the Western media
vestigation found evidence of geno- and the Peace Journalism Solution.” I began by defining Democracy.
downplayed the genocide as a ‘tribal
cide in Rakhine. Its report describes disinformation, which is the
war’ instead of describing it a sys-
indiscriminate killing, mass raping of References use of lies, half-truths, and
tematic and political project of ethnic Maslog, C.C., Lee, S.T. and Kim, S.H. (2006) ‘Framing forces stereotypes).
women and abuses of children. The irrational content to ma-
cleansing. It was one of the reasons Analysis of a Conflict: How Newspapers in Five Asian
investigators allege that ‘the gravest Countries Covered the Iraq War’, in Asian Journal of nipulate public opinion. We
international community did not pay Other presenters in the “Mythbusters” session included
crimes under international law’ were Communication, Vol.16, No.1, pp. 19–39. discussed its purposes (dis-
much attention and intervene in time Lee, S.T. and Maslog, C. C. (2005) ‘War or Peace Anna University (India) Prof. Sriram Arulchelvan. He
committed in Rakhine in August 2017 tracting, obscuring truth,
which cost lives of 250, 000 Tutsi Journalism? Asian Newspaper Coverage of Conflicts’, discussed his university’s media information and literacy
according to a BBC report. Doctors in Journal of Communication, Vol.55, No.2, pp. inspiring action, and shaping the information environment)
population in 1994, Sheuli reminded . program that helps high schoolers spot fake news.
Without Borders (MSF) estimated that
311–329. and characteristics (it works best when targeting pre-exist-
DW (2018) ‘Rohingya Crisis: Bangladesh Delays
at least 6,700 Rohingyas were killed Hopes Still Alive Repatriation of Refugees to Myanmar’ [Internet], ing divides and prejudices within a society). Disinformation Austin Augbe, director of the Nigerian Centre for Democ-
in the violence . Therefore, journalists One of the striking findings of the 22 January, available from [Accessed disinformation in Nigeria. He said that democracy is on the
guages. neutrality in 75 percent stories and January 2019] “verge of collapse” in Nigeria, and that disinformation is
HRW (2019) ‘Rohingya Crisis’, in Website of Hu- Then, I discussed how peace journalism is an effective
ignored government instructions one reason why. His center has a project to fight disinfor-
But Myanmar newspaper did not
man Rights Watch [Internet], 1 May, available tool for countering disinformation. First, PJ’s principles, as
in many instances. It did not term from mation through fact checking, training 500 fact checkers,
report human rights abuses by the taught during hundreds of seminars around the world, are
ARSA as a terrorist organization and [Accessed May 2019] spreading the word about a #StopFakeNews campaign, and
Myanmar military against the Ro- UN (2017) ‘UN Human Rights Chief Points antithetical to disinformation, including seeking to unite
its members as extremist terrorists, to Textbook Example of Ethnic Cleansing in conducting research on fake news.
hingya population in their articles. parties (disinformation divides), carefully choosing lan-
instead put words like ‘ARSA’ and Myanmar’, in UN News,[Internet], 11 Septem-
The sufferings of the Rohingya citi- ber, available from[Accessed May 2019]
overlooked. They fled to Bangladesh burning issue of the dispute. BBC (2018) ‘Myanmar Rohingya: What You Need San Marino, a small nation of 33,000 surrounded by Italy.
to Know About the Crisis’, [Internet], 24 April, avail-
and are now living in refugee camps in able from [accessed 12 January 2019] fostering cooperation among entities battling disinforma-
ing on foreign aids. Since the latest Times when Reporters Without Schimmel, N. (2011) ‘An Invisible Genocide: How the tion, and sponsoring media literacy programs in schools.
Western Media Failed to Report the 1994 Rwandan
crisis began more than half of million Border claims that media freedom is Genocide of the Tutsi and Why’, in The International
Rohingyas crossed the Myanmar bor- clearly not one of the priorities of the Journal of Human Rights, Vol. 15, No. 7, pp.1125– Wrapping up the session were respondents Titus Alexander
der and took refuge in Bangladesh. It Myanmar government,” Sheuli said, 1135. and Matthew Golozia. Alexander suggested that universi-
RSF (2018) ‘Aung San Suu Kyi’s Shocking Betrayal’,
seems Myanmar newspapers tried to adding, “This keeps the hope of pro- in Website of Reporters Without Border [Internet],
ties should lead the way in fighting disinformation, and
cover up the cruelty of the Myanmar moting peace journalism alive.” available from [Ac- act as “intelligence agencies” for democracy. This would
cessed May 2019] include changing the story (in PJ terminology, counternar-
PJ Bookshelf
ratives), speaking truth to power, and following the truth.
It’s Just it and detailing its evolution and status
among scholars and practitioners.
Golozia concluded by opining that government regulation
of internet providers and cell phone companies is needed
Good Journalism: About the book: Experts argue that Chapters include:
so that everyone has equal access to information.
Constructive Journalism
Theory, Practice, and Effects of the news media’s emphasis on prob-
Civic Journalism
lems has had a negative effect on the “Mythbusters” was hosted by the City of Strasbourg in its
Reporting Beyond the Problem public, the press itself, and democ- Participatory Journalism
Engagement Journalism
historic city hall in a room used for formal occasions and,
Lang Publishing; Summer 2020 release racy. This book provides an in-depth
Explanatory Journalism frequently, for weddings.
examination of socially-responsible
Editors: news reporting practices. Each chapter Solutions Journalism The “Mythbusters” session was held in the historic Stras-
Karen McIntyre and Nicole Dahmen focuses on one reporting form, defining Peace Journalism bourg city hall in a room used for formal occasions.
pg 14 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol 9, No. 1 pg 15
April 2020 April 2020
PJ, Rotary peace initiatives discussed in California Media network launches nationwide in Cameroon
By Steven Youngblood The other speakers were amazing. The conference featured dozens of By Tarhyang Enowbikah Tabe
Like most attendees at the Rotary examples of Rotarians working for The Cameroon Community Media
World Peace Conference in January Azim Khamisa’s son was killed by peace. Rotarian Hardeep Girin from Network, CCMN, has officially gone
2020 in Ontario, CA, I came away with gang members 25 years ago. Instead Australia discussed his initiative, national with the appointment of a
mixed feelings. On the one hand, I de- of retribution, he launched the Tarik “World Made Good,” that produces National Coordinator.
part deeply concerned about conflicts Khamisa Foundation, dedicated to free videos for NGO’s that tell stories
that plague our world. On the other breaking the cycle of youth violence. to benefit both the NGO and its clien- Rose Obah Akah was appointed as the Rose Obah
hand, I head home encouraged and “There is nothing quite as painful as a tele. An effervescent Barbara Muller pioneer National Coordinator of the Akah meets
inspired by the amazing work being broken heart,” Azim Khamisa told the discussed her initiative called peace- Cameroon Community Media Net- with CCMN
done by Rotarians and others in the approximately 1,000 attendees. “But podcast.org, and urged her audience work in Buea at the end of a crucial members at a
cause of world peace. a broken heart is an open heart” that to launch their own peace podcasts. and very decisive workshop for the recent work-
can be taught to embrace empathy She also growth of the network. shop.
My presentation on the basics of and compassion. encour-
peace journalism typifies this binary. I aged her The CCMN has now gone nationwide
started my presentation with a discus- Dr. Ira Helfand spoke movingly about audiences with 8 branches in 8 regions. The
sion about low public approval ratings the potential horrors of nuclear war, to get regional coordinators were also ap-
of the media, and the ills that plague and of the need to eliminate all nucle- involved in pointed. The Cameroon Community
the profession. Then my talk took ar weapons. He urged the attendees the Rotary Media Network has trained a battery
a hopeful turn as I described peace to get involved in a group called Rotar- E-Club for Peace—www.rotarye- of journalists in peace journalism and
ians for a Nuclear Ban. Helfand’s orga- of the Southwest and Littoral regions. West chapter and a few months later
journalism and its ability to create clubofworldpeace.org. The E-Club conflict resolution/ transformation.
nization, the International Campaign Those were the only four regions that the PCC appointed her as manager of
an atmosphere conducive to peace seeks to bring together experts and
to Abolish Nuclear Weapons, won the According to reports from Buea, she is had activities of the network before it the Peace Journalism Project which
without compromising the principles peacebuilders to discuss problems
2017 Nobel Peace Prize. tasked to coordinate the Network and went national under the coordination currently has over 60 journalists com-
of good journalism. and solutions facing the world, and
organize National Elections in 2 years. of Rose Obah Akah. mitted to enhancing peace in their
Dr. Fazim Alvi broke the attendee’s encourages its members to create
A large, engaged audience showered communities through their reporting.
hearts with horrifying, tragic stories peace at home and in schools; be- Who is Rose Obah Akah?
me with perceptive questions both Her appointment has been received She is a media consultant; a peace
about the Rohingya genocide in Myan- come peace advocates at work and in Rosaline Obah Akah is a graduate from
during and indeed after the presenta- with a lot of joy and enthusiasm given journalism, conflict transformation,
mar. She has traveled on medical mis- the world; and create understanding the University of Buea in Cameroon in
tion. One attendee wanted to know if the wealth of experience she possess- “Do No Harm” and election reporting
sions to refugee camps in Bangladesh and collaboration among religions, 2005 with a degree in Journalism and
anyone is practicing peace journalism. es in the field of community commu- trainer; and a promoter and advocate
that house Rohingya refugees. Alvi is among other things. Mass Communication/Women and
I mentioned the Guardian, Nicolas nication and peace building. for equal gender and human rights.
haunted by the unsanitary, dangerous Gender Studies. She is a professional
Kristof, and many radio journalists in A large exhibition hall featured doz-
conditions there, and by the faces of Until her appointment, she was coor- communicator and peace builder. Award winner
Cameroon and Uganda as positive ens of Rotarians and others eagerly
children she met in the camps, includ- dinator of the Network for the North- Between January and March 2019,
examples. passing out brochures about their Her passion and go-getting spirit led
ing one she calls simply “girl crying” west and West regions, while Rev. Akah has received two awards for her
outstanding projects, including a to her appointment as Regional Com-
It was interesting to see many of because she never got her name. “I Geraldine Fobah coordinated affairs efforts in peace building and Commu-
Russia-U.S. Friendship initiative; a munication Secretary of the Presby-
the themes I touched upon in my can still feel her pain. Her eyes tell me nity Development together with other
variety of clean water projects; the terian Church in Cameroon (PCC) in
talk echoed by other speakers at the stories of injustice…Her face is driv- recognitions received in the last few
Open World exchange program, the Tarhyang Enowbikah Tabe is a the Northwest region. Her commit-
conference. This includes the need to ing me to do this advocacy work,” Alvi years. Her works in peace building and
Rotary Malaria Symposium; Project trained Journalist and Develop- ment to work and outstanding output
reject “us vs. them” constructs, and said. She urged the audience to pres- community development has equally
Peanut Butter to battle malnutrition; ment Communicator with over 20 compelled the PCC to appoint her the
to give a “voice to the voiceless” in sure the Myanmar government to end been recognized and featured in local,
Kherut, an anti-trafficking NGO; the years of practical experience. He is first Station Manager of the Christian
everything we do. the genocide. national, and international media.
Rotarian Action Group for Family Publisher and Chief Executive Of- Broadcasting Service (CBS) Radio
Safety; Creating Friendships for Peace; ficer of The Advocate Newspaper, Bamenda in 2016. She held the posi- Akah has trained hundreds of youths,
Hands of Peace, an initiative uniting Cameroons Pioneer Media Organ tion of President of the Cameroon As- men and women, media houses and
Day one Israeli and Palestinian youth; the Free for the Civil Society and For the sociation of English Speaking Journal- practitioners, CSOs, and religious
plenary at Wheelchair Mission, and the Rotarian Civil Society with ists NW for two successive mandates leaders in the domains of peace and
the Rotary Action Group for Peace (https://www. focus on the up to October 2018. She now serves conflict transformation, human rights,
World Peace rotarianactiongroupforpeace.org/). Sustainable De- as an adviser to this vibrant journalism digital rights, responsible use of social
Conference velopment Goals association NW. media, stress management, volun-
While the conference underscored and Resident
in Ontario, teerism, non-violent communication,
the great deal of work ahead for Consultant with In 2018, she was elected as the
CA. mediation, humanitarian reporting,
peacebuilders, it was a valuable the UNCHRD President of the Cameroon Commu- SDGs, and other peace and commu-
reminder that those working for a Central Africa. nity Media Network Northwest and nity development-related areas.
peaceful world are not alone.
pg 16 www.park.edu/peacecenter Vol 9, No. 1 pg 17You can also read
