ADDIS ABABA- Media outlets need to promote peace journalism to reinforce the peace building process, disclosed experts in the sector.
As Dr. Adem Chane, Journalism and Communication lecturer at Bahir Dar University told to Addis Zemen Daily, especially at this moment in time when the country is through a volatile situation, media people need to abstain from reports that foment conflicts. And they need to work with responsibility to play a positive role toward peace building.
Adem added when journalists prepare and present programs and articles they must be cautious starting from words they use. He noted that it must not be forgotten Media outlets freedom also entails their responsibilities. So both the media institutions and journalists are expected to be responsible. They have to handle their tasks respecting the ideals of peace journalism. They need to uphold peace mindful of the reform in the sector as well as the nation’s political change.
He added, it will be not be a peaceful way to brush aside the truth being skimpy. Rather it is better for Media people to air it with a balanced way. Being voice for the voiceless is one of peace journalism principles. The way of reporting problems should depend on discussions and debates. It should include all sectors of the society. It must not add fuel to the fire and create instability.
Moreover, if media strength themselves being free and neutral from any other bodies, they will not be duped by any political party which have their own respective agenda. And it can help them to work for their community.
G/Giorgis Abrha, Communication Director within Ethiopian Broadcast Authority said that the number of Media outlets is increasing but most of them prove poor when it comes to presenting variety of ideas. Most Media outlets are not respecting journalistic ethics. They are observed working for one side.
He stressed that there is a need for Media outlets which uphold equality aligned with a democratic system, which can preempt conflict among the public, create union and accelerate development.
The Ethiopian Herald May 04/ 2011BY GENET FEKADE
