Media and Conflicts in Africa

This in-depth investigation of the role that local news media play in Central African conflicts combines theoretical analysis with case studies from nine African countries: Burundi, Cameroon, the Central African Republic, Chad, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Gabon, the Republic of Congo, and Rwanda. Each case study - a comprehensive discussion of media influences during the conflict and their impact on the peace process - is introduced by a short contextual essay. Enriching the exploration, a chapter by Jean-Paul Marthoz (director of information at Human Rights Watch) focuses on the ways in which the media in the global North cover crises on the African continent. The book contributes greatly to a better understanding of the complex forces at play - and identifies ways that may contribute to strengthening the positive dynamics and mediating the negative ones.