Media in Mali divided by conflict
Over the past year, the majority of media outlets in northern Mali have been forced to close, leaving large parts of the population of the conflict-ridden country in an information vacuum. Released today, the IMS report “Media in Mali divided by conflict”, assesses the media’s situation
While media in the south of Mali still has a functioning infrastructure and relatively easy access to information sources, media in the north has seen a destruction of the mass communication infrastructure and a shutdown of media.
Working under threat of retaliation
The few journalists in the north of Mali who have not fled to the other end of the country, remain at their own peril.
“In a conflict situation like the one we’re seeing in Mali, the media can contribute to informing the population on where the fighting is taking place, and how the conflict is evolving.
“The media also has a role to play in ensuring that the public participates in a potential peace process. They are unable to play this role now, with most journalists having fled to the south. Those who remain are working under the threat of retaliation from the rebels,” says Martin Landi, IMS Director of Conflict and Emergency Response, and author of the report.
Improving media’s relationship with civil society
As the on-going French-led intervention progresses, Mali is approaching a time of fragile development.
“To support the Malian population in its way forward out of this crisis, the first step is voter and civic education. This will require an improved relationship between journalists and civil society.
“Beyond this, journalists in Mali need training in safety and protection, as well as in ethics and professional conduct,” says Martin Landi.
“Our experience shows that the media is a crucial component in a country’s progress out of a crisis and into democracy. To carry out their job in a responsible and professional manner, the journalists need training in conflict sensitive journalism, which will enable them to contribute to building mutual understanding between the fighting parties in the country,” says Martin Landi.
