A Friend or a Foe: Analysig the Impact of Media Framing Tendencies on the Colombian Reconciliation Process

Media has often been neglected as a potential asset for peacebuilding due to certain framing tendencies which are deemed to promote polarization and conflict, namely partiality, sensationalism and simplification. Combining framing and reconciliation theories, this thesis explores whether this is indeed the case for Colombia’s reconciliation process following their 50-year long civil war. This qualitative content analysis demonstrates the capability of mainstream media to act as a friend for peace, choosing to employ the abovementioned techniques in manners that actually promote truth-telling, rule of law, and the development of mutual understanding and respect. A sole major pitfall is identified in the newspapers’ reporting approach, as they often overlook the importance of relating current developments to the root causes of the conflict. The consequent limitation of their truth-telling function produces spill-overs to other reconciliation aspects, thereby partially restricting the...Show moreMedia has often been neglected as a potential asset for peacebuilding due to certain framing tendencies which are deemed to promote polarization and conflict, namely partiality, sensationalism and simplification. Combining framing and reconciliation theories, this thesis explores whether this is indeed the case for Colombia’s reconciliation process following their 50-year long civil war. This qualitative content analysis demonstrates the capability of mainstream media to act as a friend for peace, choosing to employ the abovementioned techniques in manners that actually promote truth-telling, rule of law, and the development of mutual understanding and respect. A sole major pitfall is identified in the newspapers’ reporting approach, as they often overlook the importance of relating current developments to the root causes of the conflict. The consequent limitation of their truth-telling function produces spill-overs to other reconciliation aspects, thereby partially restricting the otherwise positive impact of media. Overall, this thesis challenges conventional narratives depicting media framing tendencies as inherently negative, and therefore opens up new possibilities for peacebuilders, transitional justice institutions, governments and the population to regard media as an ally to peace.Show less

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A Friend or a Foe: Analysig the Impact of Media Framing Tendencies on the Colombian Reconciliation Process