Abstract:
nis paper examines the potentials of community media in conflict
management and peace building in society. The work brings out the
inevitability of conflict which exists at different levels between individuals,
subcultures, communities and indeed among countries of the world. The paper
discusses the passive and aggressive reactions to conflict and stresses that since
it is often difficult andfrustrating for one to give up one's own interest and goals
for the sake of maintaining a relationship with others, what ensues more often
than not for those with passive reaction to conflict is a lose-win-solution. On the
other hand, the use of force and power to get one's interest achieved,
disregarding the interests of others in an aggressive reaction to issues spark off
conflict in the society. The paper concludes that the role ofthe media to intervene
during conflict situations is challenging, giving the fact that they must adhere to
the professional code of ethics and the inherent tenets of objectivity, truth,
accuracy, balance and fairness. The paper therefore calls on the community
media being close to the people, to provide extensive coverage to peace dialogue
among the various factions in conflict situations through an impartial and
objecti ve reporting of issues.
