Journalism can foster understanding in the midst of conflict
Journalism has the power to either fuel confrontation or foster understanding. Vikes supports responsible and conflict-sensitive journalism that strengthens dialogue, trust, and peaceful solutions.
The way the media covers conflicts influences how people understand the world and one another. News reporting that emphasizes confrontation can fuel fear and tension, whereas responsible journalism can create space for dialogue, understanding, and peaceful solutions.
Peace journalism does not mean downplaying conflicts or ignoring problems. It refers to journalistic work that seeks to provide comprehensive information on the causes, consequences, and possible solutions to conflicts, while respecting human dignity and diverse perspectives.
Vikes’ Peace Journalism sub-program strengthens journalists’ ability to practice ethical and conflict-sensitive journalism and promotes dialogue, security, and peaceful public discourse.
Our work includes, for example:
- training in conflict-sensitive journalism
- supporting the safety of journalists
- combating hate speech and disinformation
- media projects that strengthen dialogue and social inclusion
- strengthening the capacity of local media actors
Our goal is a media landscape that does not deepen divisions but supports fair and peaceful social discourse.
Responsible journalism can play an important role in peacebuilding.
Expected results
- Journalists’ ability to cover conflicts ethically and safely is strengthened.
- Conflicts are reported in a more balanced and people-centered manner.
- Hate speech and disinformation are countered more effectively.
- The media provides more space for dialogue and diverse perspectives.
- Journalism supports social stability and peacebuilding.
News articles related to the project
The first sign language news broadcasts began in Somalia
Gender equality and peace journalism strengthened in Somalia
In 2024, Vikes supported the promotion of gender equality and peace journalism in Somalia through training and networking.
An historical advancement in Somalia – disability rights and inclusion strengthened by legislative changes and media work
Vikes expert Wali Hashi organized a two-day seminar through the Vikes’ supported CAFIS organization in Mogadishu, Somalia on the International Day of Persons with Disabilities. The theme of the seminar was “Changing attitudes in society towards persons with disabilities”