Role of private media in international peace and security: a case study of Kenya 1992-2008

Abstract

This study analyses the role of privately-owned, independent media as a factor in international peace and security. It examines the role the media has played in major international Conflicts towards the end of the twentieth century and the beginning of this century and the extent to which their involvement shaped public and policy makers' perceptions towards these conflicts . The study illustrates the power of the media as an instrument of conflict management.

Like many tools used by human beings this study shows that the media can serve good or evil purposes by manipulating the truth, and exaggerating or playing downs facts. It uses Kenya as a case study and covers the period 1992 to 2008. To this extent it focuses on the ideological orientation of those who own and control the media and how this shapes editorial policy. Overall, the study seeks to determine the extent to which ideological interests of media owners and the dominant political class influenced reportage during Kenya's post-election crisis. And the extent to which this affected the quest for peace and security in Kenya and the region.