Media and conflict resolution: the role of radio in the management of Burundi conflict
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Date
2011Author
Athanas, Makundi
Type
ThesisLanguage
en_USMetadata
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The media in more ways than one contributes to the density of violence in the world. In many media reports, the media has been accused of focusing on what is irrational without looking at the reasons to resolve conflict, portraying one side as good and demonizing the other side as evil, presenting violence as inevitable and omitting alternatives and failure to explore peace proposals that offer peaceful outcomes. But this does not mean that the media cannot playa positive role in resolving or managing conflicts.
This research project investigates the role of radio in managing Burundi conflict. The research paper focuses on a position grounded in some of the basic communication theories and principles that have projected media as a powerful tool in managing social problems. The paper further discusses the content used in radio programs, the method used to produce these programs in order to de-escalate conflict in Burundi. The research also gives a comparison approach to what medium is effective in passing messages that manage or resolve conflict.
The research therefore administered structured and unstructured questionnaire key informants to collect data. A representative sample was selected randomly from residents of Bujumbura city. Using statistical data analysis, the research draws probable solutions and constrains to achieving conflict management in Burundi. And in conclusion the paper underlines recommendations emanating from the study that can be used to front peaceful resolution and conflict management to post- conflict countries of Africa.
Publisher
University of Nairobi, Kenya