Latin America. On February 13, the 12th edition of World Radio Day was commemorated. This year UNESCO is highlighting independent radio as a pillar for conflict prevention and peacebuilding.
An armed conflict between countries or groups within a country can translate into a conflict of media narratives. The narrative can increase tensions or maintain conditions for peace.
By informing the general public, radio stations have the ability to shape public opinion and frame a narrative that can influence national and international situations and decision-making processes.
Strengthening journalistic norms and capacity should be seen as an investment in peace.
Radio in conflict prevention and peacebuilding
Radio is an essential actor and a fundamental part of peacekeeping and the transition to peace. It is part of its function to set the agenda and provide essential services to bring to light issues of interest, present issues that deserve the attention of authorities and citizens and give them relevance. Professional radio addresses the root causes and triggers of conflicts before they erupt into violence. It offers an alternative methodology of conflict prevention by clarifying frustrations or clashes of interests, clarifying misunderstandings, identifying issues of mistrust... This can help counter hatred, the desire for revenge, or the willingness to take up arms.
It offers an alternative methodology of conflict prevention by clarifying frustrations or clashes of interests, clarifying misunderstandings, identifying issues of mistrust... This can help counter hatred, the desire for revenge, or the willingness to take up arms.
The varied collaborative techniques of radio programmers also reinforce the culture of dialogue through participatory programmes and formats, such as calls, talk shows, listeners' forums, etc., and thus provide an opportunity to democratically debate latent issues, including disagreements, on the air.
Independent professional radio thus strengthens democracy and lays the foundations for lasting peace.
United Nations peacekeeping missions support radio stations and radio programmes in many of their host countries. You can read more information about the Impact of United Nations Peacekeeping Radio Stations.
Pictured: Irene Lasu is an announcer for Radio Miraya, of the UN Mission in South Sudan.
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