Title : Media Policy, Peace and State Reconstruction
Discussion Paper No : 8 (series 1)
Author(s) : Tim Allen and Nicole Stremlau
Date : March 2005
[PDF]
Abstract: This paper begins
by identifying and discussing the current prevailing liberal
policy towards the media’s role in ‘peace-making’ and
‘peace-building’. It then proceeds to assess whether this has
been an effective or ineffective approach, and concludes by
suggesting ways in which the debate can be reframed or expanded.
In brief, it is argued that laissez-faire policies towards media
development in societies that are in the process of resolving
violent conflicts are unlikely to be the best option. While
recognising that proposing censorship is problematic and
controversial, the paper argues that there have to be
restrictions on material that is divisive and inflammatory –
although this inevitably raises questions of who should decide
what is unacceptable and on what basis.