Burkina Faso: The role of the media in the fight against terrorism
Beyond their traditional roles of informing, educating, and entertaining, the media plays a crucial role in the fight against terrorism. To win a war, one must first win the war of communication. This is particularly relevant in Burkina Faso today, where the war against terrorism is accompanied by a communicative war waged by Western media, indulging in misinformation daily with the sole purpose of discrediting Burkinabè authorities in the eyes of the population.
Unfortunately, there are also local media outlets that engage in this dangerous game.
With this in mind, the governor of the Hauts-Bassins region, Mariama Konaté/Gnanou, met with media leaders or their representatives in the region on Tuesday, January 9, 2024.
The purpose of the meeting is to collectively reflect on how to steer information to avoid giving credence to terrorists and their allies.
This reflection, initiated on the role of the media, should set an example for other regions.
Every component of society must define its role and contribute to the fight against this scourge that threatens the very existence of the state and the legitimate aspiration of the population to live in peace, harmony, and security.
One consequence of this scourge is an exacerbation of social tensions and an amplification of the actions of political movements that take advantage of the situation to divide citizens and gain greater support.
These situations call on the media to avoid perpetuating divisions and hatred among different segments of society.
Olivier TOE
