International conference highlights journalism’s role in South Asian peace and cooperation

Responsible journalism plays a crucial role in strengthening peace, trust and mutual cooperation among South Asian countries, speakers said at an international conference held in New Delhi.

The conference, titled “Role of Journalism in Peace Making and Cooperation in South Asian Countries,” was held on Sunday (February 8) at the New Delhi campus of the Bharati Vidyapeeth Educational Complex, according to a press release.

Organised with the cooperation of the SAARC Journalists Forum (SJF) India Chapter, the event was presided over by Dr M Huda, director of the institution and a computer scientist.

Raju Lama, president of the SAARC Journalists Forum, attended the event as chief guest. Among others present were SJF Secretary General Abdur Rahman; Dr Aniruddha Shudhanshu, president of the India Chapter; Dr Smita Mishra, member of the India Chapter; and Asif Hasan Nabi, vice president of the Bangladesh Chapter. Journalists, researchers, human rights activists and cultural personalities from SAARC member countries, as well as teachers and students from Delhi University and Bharati Vidyapeeth, also took part in the programme.

International members of the forum -- Rinzin Wangchuk of Bhutan and Husnain Chaudhary, general secretary of the Pakistan Chapter -- addressed the conference through video messages.

The keynote paper was presented by Asif Hasan Nabi, vice president of the SAARC Journalists Forum Bangladesh Chapter. He said that despite geographical, economic and cultural commonalities among South Asian countries, the regional cooperation body SAARC remains stagnant. He noted that journalists have a key role to play in resolving geopolitical deadlocks and building bridges of trust among people in the region.

Mr Nabi said journalism in South Asia is not limited to news dissemination but also serves as a medium for peace-building and shaping public opinion. While irresponsible reporting can create tension and confusion, responsible journalism can help dispel misunderstandings, promote dialogue and foster trust, he added.

Referring to the digital age, he said fake news and misinformation pose major threats to regional peace and stressed the need for journalists to prioritise fact-checking, uphold ethical standards and use restrained language.

Other discussants said regular dialogue and mutual cooperation among journalists from South Asian countries could contribute to strengthening regional peace and stability. The seminar also emphasised the need to promote peace journalism and enhance professional standards within the media sector.