in my opinion

International Broadcasting: Perspective on Law and Ethics

By Rowdy Sargent

International broadcasting has been around for decades as a public diplomacy and propaganda tool. It has been used as a general avenue for information as well as a discrete tactic to undermine opposing governments. Some international broadcasts are overt, openly disclosing any and all content. If a broadcast has to remain concealed or disguised, in other words covert, it suggests there is something to hide. International broadcasts should remain honest and forthcoming to avoid breaking international media regulations.

 According to Howard Frederick, author of Communication and Culture in War and Peace, "International law traditionally was defined as rules governing relations between sovereign states.” These laws set standards for media and international reporting. It’s expected that international law is obeyed by the media as to not disrupt or disrespect another country.
Some government-sponsored radio stations do not follow these international laws, but strategically seek to enforce their own agendas. While government-owned media perhaps isn’t ideal anywhere, Radio Sawa is a positive example of a government-owned media outlet working within international law.

Radio Sawa is one of roughly ten different radio broadcasts the U.S. has funded over the last 50 years and overseen by the Broadcasting Board of Governors. Currently Radio Sawa is rebroadcast on over 40 radios stations throughout the Middle East. According to www.radiosawa.com, “Radio Sawa is dedicated to broadcasting accurate, timely and relevant news about the Middle East, the world and the United States.” It strives to maintain ethical standards of journalism by obeying international law while entertaining the primarily youth-based audience with what the producers feel is progressive thinking. The station strives to be respectful of its listener’s cultural beliefs and stimulate their thoughts.

Radio Sawa’s mission, obeying international law and maintaining openness, should be the highest priority and the standard for all international broadcasts. It would protect sovereignty and endorse positive international relations.