Journalism and Social-Political Conflict in Contemporary Society

Abstract

This study delves into the intricate dynamics between journalism and contemporary social-political conflicts. It aims to comprehend the challenges journalists face when reporting on such conflicts, encompassing physical risks in conflict zones, ethical dilemmas arising from portraying sensitive issues, and economic pressures influencing media coverage decisions. Grounded in the theoretical framework of Peace Journalism, the study adopts principles emphasizing accuracy, fairness, and the promotion of dialogue over sensationalism. Utilizing the descriptive research method, the study consults and analyzes relevant literatures, documents, and records to interrogate media ethics and power in multicultural Nigeria. Findings reveal challenges in conflict reporting, including threats to physical safety, ethical quandaries, and economic constraints shaping narratives. Social-political conflicts trigger shifts in the media landscape, influencing news consumption patterns, contributing to media polarization, and fostering the rise of citizen journalism facilitated by social media platforms. Hence, the study offers a set of recommendations to address identified challenges. These encompass safeguarding press freedom, implementing media literacy programs, providing comprehensive journalist training and support, diversifying news sources, establishing ethical reporting guidelines, promoting peace journalism initiatives, fostering international collaboration, launching public awareness campaigns, investing in conflict reporting, and advocating for ongoing research and continuous monitoring.