The 63rd radio program as part of the Center for Research and Security Studies’ (CRSS) counter-radicalization initiative Ulasi Taroon (Social Cohesion) was aired on April 05, 2019, on the theme of “Social Cohesion and Role of Media”.
The show mainly focused on the criticality of the role of media and its effective use for promoting respect, tolerance and acceptance as a measure of sustainable peace. Only by positively and responsibly harnessing the potential of media, can it lead to social development of the country.
The first guest in studio, Mr. Safiullah Gul, a seasoned journalist, noted that with great power comes great responsibility and freedom of expression is both power and responsibility and it must be realized that the social cohesion greatly hinges upon responsible citizenship. We do have rights but our right to swing our arms and fists end where the other person’s nose begins. Essentially, every citizen should be aware and have knowledge about the fundamental human rights. This will not only equip us with intellectual wherewithal to articulate our issues and concerns but also encourage to respect others’ rights. Media has a very important responsibility to build such an understanding among the public to play their role in fostering social cohesion. He underlined the need to have ethical journalism and such an educational structure which is inclusive of the ideals of peace and cohesion.
He appreciated the CRSS efforts for social cohesion through strategic communication and dissemination including the use of radio airwaves. The Center’s advocacy campaign serves as an inspiring peacebuilding example for other forms of media, and the same should be done through television because visual impact has its own effect and power. Every media channel should aim to promote the positive messaging and perspectives as mandatory public service programming.
The second guest on phone, Mrs. Farzana Ali, a senior journalist, said that the role of media is crucial to empower women, make them more aware about their rights and help highlighting the issues that concern their status as equal citizens. Women living in the patriarchal societies are more vulnerable to disenfranchisement, therefore they should be given opportunities for active involvement in the decision making processes. There is also an onus on the women leaders on influential positions in the society to voice the concerns of deprived women and advocate for their due rights. Unless the women themselves are not in the positions of influence, their problems cannot be resolved. Any positive change in the society cannot be achieved without women empowerment.
“Media has an incredible leverage to bring positive changes in the public perceptions. However, the power to influence the public opinion comes with a responsibility to be cognizant of the sensitivities living in the society”, said Mr. Laiq Zada during the radio report as part of the show while adding that stronger the media, stronger the society.
About Ulasi Taroon
Ulasi Taroon is a counter radicalization initiative of Center for Research and Security Studies that aims to address the radicalization challenges, extremist ideologies and foster social cohesion through a discourse anchored in the core constitutional values which are fundamentally essential prerequisites for social peace and harmony. The endeavor aims to cultivate and sensitize the people of KP in the core values in the Pakistani constitution and our social contract. It’s an attempt to highlight the criticality of abiding by these ideals – such as adherence to rule of law, primacy and sanctity of constitution, equal citizenry, responsible citizenship, respect for fundamental human rights, tolerance for diversity and different opinions, inclusive democracy and good governance – as a measure of fostering social cohesion and peaceful co-existence.