Profiles: Media DIPLOMACY

Pakistan and US Engage in a Tense, Media 'Conversation'

By Denise Colvin

Over the last several months the world has watched the media act as a messenger. Specifically, we have witnessed the dialogue between the U.S. and General Musharraf of Pakistan. Both countries have used the media as a forum to convey threats ranging from monetary sanctions to potential military conflict. The New York Times carried a series of articles regarding tensions between the U.S. and Pakistan, specifically pointing to Pakistan’s relationship with the Taliban and Osama Bin Laden. Most recently, turmoil has been brewing in Pakistan over elections of political leaders. The opposition leader, Benazir Bhutto, has faced opposition from the police and government regarding her bid for the presidency. Using the media, the U.S. has expressed its displeasure at Musharraf’s handling of this situation … and with well over $1 billion in U.S. aid going to Pakistan, there is little question the White House expects some response. In fact, as the media ‘conversation’ continued General Musharraf relaxed his position on emergency rule surrounding elections for leadership in Pakistan. This shift in position was predicated by a tense dialogue played out in the media.

Pakistani human rights activists chant slogans during a rally against Pakistan's military ruler President Gen. Pervez Musharraf. (AP Photo/Anjum Naveed)

 

The Internet Promotes ‘Cereal for Peace’

By Karin Ellis

In a world that seems to be inevitably surrounded by conflict, what can be done to reduce it? Increasingly, scholars and journalists alike debate the role of media in the pursuit of enduring peace. One thing they agree on is that expecting media to take on a more socially responsible role will not be an easy task. It will require thinking in new and creative ways regarding the use of communication technology.

A company called Peace Cereal is an example of an innovative strategy to promote peace. Peace Cereal advertises on product packaging and on the internet, “You can become a peacemaker without leaving your home!” and “Do your world a bowl of good!” The organization publicizes a mission to produce healthy, natural cereal, utilize responsible business practices and donate 10% of proceeds to support peace. It’s a positive message delivered via a unique medium. The combination of pop culture, education and food offers the potential to reach wide audiences. But breakfast cereal? As they say…the kernels of peace are in the mundane.

 

Don’t Kill the Messenger

By Rahne Ervin

The International Federation of Journalists (IFJ) is an organization that deals with journalist issues, rights and safety worldwide. The protection of media employees is a major concern of the IFJ and an issue for which they struggle.

Because one of the central roles of the media is to reveal instances of government corruption or abuse, many with power see the media as a threat to their control. This causes journalists and their support staff to become targets of violence. A key concern of the IFJ is the rising murder rate of journalists worldwide, which they see as proof that the media influence as messenger and government monitor is gaining prominence. The murders themselves are a message.

According to IFJ’s annual report, 155 media persons died in 2006. This number excluded accidental or natural deaths. Drug lords, terrorists, sectarian gangs and government militaries murdered 155 journalists with little investigation or punishment. The IFJ is fighting to end the impunity in these killings and have drafted a resolution for the UN Security Council that would seek punishment of their killers. IFJ claims this goes beyond just the protection of journalists, but is also protection of the human right of free expression.