The Practice of Conflict-Sensitive Reporting by Fana Broadcasting Corporate During the Conflict Between the Government and Opposition groups in 2015
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Date
2024-07
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Addis Ababa University
Abstract
The media scenery of Ethiopia has been serving the groups controlling power over a long period of time. However, the media is a powerful tool for shaping public opinion. Because of the sensitive nature of conflicts, the media has to take certain considerations when reporting on conflicts. This study examines the practice of conflict-sensitive reporting within the media, focusing on the Ethiopian context with a specific emphasis on the, FBC (Fana Broadcasting Corporate). Against the backdrop of the contemporary political landscape in Ethiopia, characterized by ethnic tensions and political transitions, this research delves into the strategies employed by FBC to promote conflict-sensitive reporting. The study used a qualitative approach, combining content analysis of FBC's news coverage with qualitative interviews conducted among media professionals. By analyzing the framing, language, and tone of news reports, the study assess the extent to which the media integrates conflict-sensitive reporting principles into its coverage. The researcher used purposive sampling for news content analysis. The study discovered that the attempt at conflict-sensitive reporting by the media is very poor. The interview revealed that the media under study see it as objective and balanced this was however disputed by the content analysis and in-depth interview. Additionally, the findings indicate that FBC's reporting is significantly influenced by its alignment with the government, leading to a polarized portrayal of the conflict. Journalists at FBC face significant challenges in maintaining professional and ethical standards due to political pressures and threats to personal safety. These challenges complicate efforts to report impartially and uphold the principles of conflict-sensitive journalists. The findings shed light on the challenges and opportunities faced by FBC in navigating the delicate balance between journalistic integrity, government interests, and the need to mitigate the risk of exacerbating existing conflicts.
Key words:-Conflict-sensitive reporting, Mainstream media, Framing and Themes.