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Armenian, Azeri journalists forge dialogue amidst conflict

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  • Armenian, Azeri journalists forge dialogue amidst conflict

    IFEX, Canada
    Dec 9 2004

    ARMENIAN, AZERI JOURNALISTS FORGE DIALOGUE AMIDST CONFLICT


    Nagorno-Karabakh, an enclave in the Caucasus region that has seen
    heavy fighting in the past between Armenia and Azerbaijan, is a place
    that provokes fiery debate and even deep-seated hatred among citizens
    of both countries. Local journalists compare it to the
    Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and governments on both sides use the
    media to stoke fear and fan the flames of ethnic tension.


    But despite a decades-long divide between Armenia and Azerbaijan,
    journalists are working together in small but remarkable ways to
    promote more fair and balanced media coverage, reports the Committee
    to Protect Journalists (CPJ).

    In its latest issue of "Dangerous Assignments," CPJ documents several
    cross-border initiatives, including the use of non-traditional media
    to promote civic dialogue and fill an "informational vacuum" that
    lies between Armenia and Azerbaijan.

    Radio Van, an Armenian broadcaster, features talk shows that allow
    listeners to discuss "hot topics," including Nagorno-Karabakh,
    environmental problems and minority rights. Denied government
    permission to broadcast beyond the capital, Yerevan, the station uses
    its website to reach more listeners.

    On www.caucasusjournalists.net, a website launched by the
    Yerevan-based Region Centre, more than 150 journalists from the
    Caucasus exchange ideas and opinions in online forums. The website
    gives journalists a chance to publicise their work online and conduct
    "cross-border interviews" with government officials and other
    newsmakers. Journalists must pledge to uphold media ethics when
    reporting.

    Meanwhile, local press clubs in Yerevan and the Azeri capital, Baku,
    organise joint press conferences by satellite, during which
    journalists from both countries interview politicians and government
    leaders, discuss the news and then report what they learn in their
    own media.

    While some say these initiatives may not have much influence because
    of government control over the media in both countries, others
    believe cooperation will go a long way in defusing tension and
    dispelling stereotypes. "Fair information has the power to make us
    change our perception and to make rational decisions, while unfair
    information reinforces stereotypes, stirs up anger and leads to
    stupid decisions," says John Boit, regional director for Internews.

    To read the full story, visit:
    http://www.cpj.org/Briefings/2004/DA_fall04/DA_fall04.pdf
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