Heavenly Culture, World Peace, Restoration of Light (HWPL), the renowned international peace organisation, recently convened a landmark online event attended by approximately 160 media representatives from 49 countries on February 17, 2024.
This year’s HWPL International Workshop on Peace Journalism commemorated the release of its second journal, “Peace Journalism Studies”, a collaborative effort involving nine journalists from across the globe.
Centered around the theme “Media Perspective on Conflict Resolution,” this event aimed to disseminate the principles of peace journalism, amplifying the collective voice of an international media network advocating for peace, and proposing actionable strategies to inspire the global village to prioritise peace. Among the contributors, six speakers delivered addresses on the role of media in building peace, addressing peace-related issues, promoting peace journalism, and enhancing global security.
Observations by the attendees:
“In navigating the delicate tapestry of conflict and discord, Peace Journalism emerges as a beacon of clarity, an instrument of empathy, and a catalyst for meaningful change. Peace Journalism unfolds as a conduit for open dialogue, providing platforms for varying perspectives, and cultivating a deep engagement with the multifaceted nature of conflict a resolution.” – Innocent Yuh, the Regional Coordinator of the Cameroon Association of Media Professionals (CAMP) in the South West Region
“Journalists must be able to be present at the events. We cannot deny that the media must strive to be in a position to remain a source of correct information and present it professionally according to rules such as the code of ethics. This ensures that journalists are responsible in their profession, specifically searching for and presenting information.” – Hendry Nursal, Editor-in-Chief of Jambidaily.com
“The war in Ukraine poses threats to the entire global security. It should also be emphasized that not only states are influential “players” in strengthening global security. This is also the interest of civil society and civil society institutions. Peace journalism helps to establish communications between parties in conflict,” – Ihor Shevyrov, Journalist and Lawyer of Ukraine
“We not only raise awareness but also inspire individuals to actively engage in the pursuit of peace, hastening the realization of a peaceful world. Regular reporting of global peace events should be a monthly endeavor in each country.” – Lok Bahadur Chaudhary, Founder Publisher and Editor of Hamarpahura.com
“Social media enables people from different cultures and backgrounds to engage with one another directly. Interactions on these digital platforms, when used positively, can foster a global community that works collectively towards peace and mutual understanding. Grassroots reports have brought attention to conflicts that might have otherwise gone unnoticed or unreported.” – Oral Ofori, Founder of TheAfricanDream Company
“By 2022, 60% of the public believes that the news they receive contains bias or even disinformation. In its meaning and principles, peace journalism is a journalism practice that aims to minimize conflict, promote dialogue, and help build peace in society. HWPL is the only international non-governmental organization that calls on all media to promote peace.” – Rana Setiawan, Chief Reporter of Mira Islamic News Agency (MINA)
The host organization, HWPL, is globally engaged in initiatives not only in journalism but also in peace education, interfaith dialogue, youth and women’s activities, and the establishment of international law for peace. As HWPL continues to champion peace journalism, the event resonates as a call for a media effort, urging all media outlets to embrace their role in fostering a world united in pursuit of lasting peace.
