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| Sunday, 4 May 2003 |
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Features |  |
| News Business Features Editorial
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Media freedom alone does not ensure peace, democracy by Vimukthi Fernando A topic of much concern and debate, the role of journalists in the peace process was argued and counter argued, by a panel of academics, politicians and journalists last week at the BMICH. Media Minister Imthiaz Bakeer Markar, Dr. Sarath Amunugama, MP, Democratic Left Front Leader Vasudeva Nanayakkara and Brigadier Sanath Karunaratne - Military Spokesman presented their viewpoints at the seminar while Dayan Jayatileka of the University of Colombo, John Earl, Communication Consultant of the Peace Secretariat and journalists Waruna Karunatileka presented their perspectives at the panel discussion moderated by journalist Ariyananda Dombagahawatte. Dr. Ravindra Fernando, Director Centre for the Study of Human Rights (CSHR) of the University of Colombo and N. Selvakumaran, Head of the Law Faculty, University of Colombo were also present. The discussion and seminar was organised by the Media Unit of the CSHR. Freedom of the media does not necessarily ensure peace or democracy or citizens' rights. Comparatively war is easier to be engaged in than the peace process which is more costly and requires commitment towards the cause. A small incident/cause is enough to stop the process of peace, such as the halting of present peace talks. At such a juncture, journalists should act in a learned manner without any bias, said Media Minister Imthiaz Bakeer Markar last week. He was presenting his views on whether 'journalists have opportunities to carry out their proper role in the peace process'. Speaking on the theme, 'Should media freedom be curtailed within the peace process' Sarath Amunugama raised the question as to whether the media could be restricted or censored in today's context? Improved technology in the field of information has widened the horizons of the journalists stretching one's reach far beyond the borders of one's own country. However, since media is instrumental in changing the attitudes and philosophies of the masses, they should conduct themselves with responsibility without bias he said. He questioned as to how Sri Lanka boasts of press freedom without a proper news agency to disseminate news to and from the country. Brigadier Sanath Karunaratne, stressed the need for responsible journalism at times of peace and especially at the times of war. He pointed out the necessity from a military point of view to avoid publishing details of ongoing operations. He also expressed his concerns on verification for correct information. Vasudewa Nanayakkara speaking on the 'Transparency of media in the current peace process' pointed out that the peace process is linked to the war. Many a voice is being raised about the present peace process. In some instances the truth becomes secondary, while the military or political agendas of these parties/groups are brought forward. However, the media should give voice to all the different view points, he said. He drew a parallel between a country's achieved level of democracy and the transparency of its media. The role of Sri Lankan journalists in the peace process and in general was questioned and criticised by Dayan Jayatileka while Waruna Karunatileka questioned whether there was any media ethics in Sri Lankan journalism. |
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