Degree Name

MA in Conflict Transformation

First Advisor

John Ungerleider

Abstract

This capstone paper aims to explore the media's role in post war peacebuilding in Nepal. To address the media's role, this paper looks at the question, "In what ways can the media assist in peacebuilding efforts within Nepal?” In addressing this question, qualitative research was conducted and media campaigns were studied. During this process, it was determined that the media definitely has a role in the peacebuilding process. The media campaigns for facilitating the peacebuilding process were successful in attracting large audiences. Programs studied were found to be both participatory and persuasive. The approaches of these campaigns were mostly designed to address the concerns of post war peacebuilding and were mainly produced by a few professional media houses and agencies. However, the size of the audiences of these programs was not sufficient enough to have an actual impact on the larger Nepalese society. Despite the growing size of the media in the country, journalists continue to face serious problems which may hinder the ongoing peace process. Media education, training and higher wages for journalists would likely increase the level of professionalism within the industry. Similarly, the impact of the media would potentially be more positive if all journalists were to abide by the principles embodied by peace journalism.

Keywords: Nepal, Peacebuilding, Media, Journalism, Role, Professionalism, Impact

Disciplines

Social and Behavioral Sciences

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